Commission hears county broadband update; Brightspeed executive discussed wrapping existing copper with fiber

Commission member Andy gave an update on county broadband efforts, including the flow of federal funds through the state to counties, mapping disputes that are delaying grant awards and an expected slow rollout unless administrative changes accelerate the process.

Andy said Brightspeed expressed interest in bidding on county contracts and he spoke by phone with John Mazurek, a Brightspeed executive. According to Andy, Mazurek described a technical approach in which existing copper lines could be wrapped with fiber optic, making upgrade to fiber service possible even where existing copper runs (for example, long service lines from street to house) remain in place. Andy said Brightspeed agreed to review Huntington‑specific pole and line conditions and expected to report back on whether Brightspeed could help address sagging or degraded poles and lines in the township.

Sherry, the county planning staff lead, arranged the conversation between Andy and the Brightspeed executive, the commission said. Commissioners noted Brightspeed purchased infrastructure assets from a previous company (Centerlink) and said Brightspeed indicated an intent to improve customer service and local relationships.

Commissioners cautioned that federal grant mapping disputes and contractor credentialing (including DEI and other requirements) have slowed awards nationally and locally; Andy said some timelines discussed earlier suggested limited change before 2026, though an administrative push could speed the process.

No formal action was taken; the update was informational and commissioners asked to be kept informed.

Ending: Andy said he will report back to the commission as county or Brightspeed follow‑up information becomes available.