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County approves broadband build agreement for Nantahala; $350,000 contribution authorized
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Summary
Macon County approved an agreement with Balsam West to construct broadband to five county facilities in Nantahala and approved a $350,000 budget amendment to support construction costs, with Balsam West offering services to nearby residences after buildout.
On Sept. 12 the Macon County Board of Commissioners approved a network design-and-build agreement to extend fiber broadband service to five county facilities in the Nantahala community and authorized a budget amendment to move $350,000 from Capital Fund 55 to the general fund to help offset construction fees.
Broadband Committee representative Jeff Lee summarized the agreement: Balsam West would build and provide service to five county sites (Nantahala Fire Station on Wayah, Nantahala Fire Substation, Nantahala EMS on Junaluska, the library/community center on White Oak and Wayah, and the Nantahala recreation center on Winding Stairs) and commit to complete the project within six months of executing the agreement and receiving permits. After activation, Balsam West will offer services to residences within 500 feet of the fiber routes. Lee said Balsam West requested a $350,000 non-recurring construction fee, with 50% due at start and 50% at completion, plus a one-time lump-sum internet fee for the five facilities for the first year.
Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the agreement and the budget amendment to transfer the $350,000; the votes authorize staff to finalize contractual terms and move forward with permitting and construction.