Meriwether County delays switch from Spectrum after staff finds existing contract through 2027

Meriwether County officials on Tuesday voted to delay a planned move from their current internet vendor after staff said the county’s contract with Spectrum runs through 2027 and likely requires paying the remainder if terminated early.

Matthew Brown, identified in the meeting as the county’s IT director, told commissioners the Spectrum agreement appears to extend into 2027 and that an early termination would “owe the remaining balance” of the contract. He said Spectrum representatives directed staff to the company’s online terms of service rather than providing a signed renewal during staff’s review.

The item under discussion was a proposal from Consumer Networks, a subsidiary of Diverse Power, to provide automated infrastructure and internet service at several tower sites. Brown said moving to Diverse Power could reduce short‑term capital outlays — by replacing expensive microwave radios with internet at tower locations — and would improve redundancy, but that the county could not afford to pay two providers simultaneously while Spectrum’s terms remain in force.

A staff estimate presented during the meeting put a potential buyout in the low six figures; one commissioner said his “best calculation” was about $120,000. Commissioners also reported an absence of a signed renewal in clerk and finance files and directed staff to request the vendor produce the contract and to consult legal and the county attorney about options.

Chair moved to table the item until the board’s Sept. 23 meeting so staff can obtain copies of the signed renewal and negotiate a feasible build timetable with Diverse Power; the motion carried.

Next steps: staff was asked to produce the renewal or service orders, confirm whether equipment leases are distinct from the service contract, and report back with legal guidance and a recommended schedule for transitioning vendors.