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Gurnee approves MetroNet master license and hires Clark Dietz to oversee fiber build
Summary
The Village Board approved a master license agreement authorizing MetroNet LLC to install a 100% fiber network in Gurnee and a professional‑services contract with Clark Dietz Inc. to provide permit review and construction oversight; staff said MetroNet plans roughly $8 million in investment and will reimburse oversight costs.
The Gurnee Village Board voted Dec. 1 to authorize a master license agreement allowing MetroNet LLC to use village rights‑of‑way to install fiber and to approve a professional‑services agreement with Clark Dietz Inc. to provide permit review and on‑site construction oversight for the MetroNet project.
Village staff described the master license as a rights‑of‑way use agreement that sets consistent standards for plans, permits, fees, installations, maintenance, insurance and remedies; staff said applicants will be required to follow the agreement and that MetroNet will be responsible for permit, inspection and restoration costs. The village may deny additional installations or require relocations if rights‑of‑way become congested or conflict with other utilities.
Staff told the board MetroNet intends to build a 100% fiber network to serve homes and businesses across the village with an estimated investment of about $8,000,000 and noted that MetroNet was acquired by T‑Mobile in mid‑2025. The board also approved a professional‑services agreement with Clark Dietz Inc. for permit review and construction oversight; Clark Dietz’s oversight costs will be billed to and reimbursed by MetroNet under the master license agreement. The village plans to engage a part‑time utility locator for the project, also reimbursed by MetroNet.
Both ordinances (2025‑84, authorizing the master license, and 2025‑85, authorizing the professional‑services agreement) passed on roll call with recorded ayes. Staff indicated MetroNet is already constructing in neighboring communities and that the village will require notification to residents ahead of construction in each area.
Authorities noted during the discussion included ordinance references 2025‑84 and 2025‑85 authorizing the master license and the Clark Dietz contract.
