Commerce council OKs $41,000 for Phase 1 public Wi‑Fi at city facilities

The City of Commerce on March 10 authorized staff to begin Phase 1 of a public Wi‑Fi expansion, approving contracts and an appropriation totaling $41,000 from the project management fund to purchase access points, network licensing, cabling and installation for interior coverage at several city facilities.

Finance Director Castellon outlined the two‑phase approach: Phase 1 (before council) focuses on internal coverage so residents using city programs and services indoors can access free Wi‑Fi; staff will return April 14 with a separate proposal and funding request for Phase 2 (outdoor coverage in parks and fields), which may require trenching or conduit work.

Staff recommended a purchase agreement with Southern Computer Warehouse for equipment (not to exceed $27,000) and a separate agreement with Integrated Security for cabling and installation (not to exceed $14,000). The council approved the recommendations by motion. "Reliable high‑speed internet is not universal and this is a modern public service," a council member said in support of the item.

Facilities included in Phase 1 are Bandini Park, Bristol Park, Rosewood Park, City Hall, the Brenda Villa Aquatic Center, the teen center, and the Veterans Neighborhood Center (mobile facility adjacent to the Veterans library). Staff said the proposed system will isolate public Wi‑Fi from the city’s internal staff network and will return with a Phase 2 plan for outdoor coverage.