Commission extends University of Tennessee partnership for Bedford County broadband, county says no cost

Bedford County commissioners approved a two‑year extension of a partnership agreement with the University of Tennessee to support the county’s broadband program, saying the extension carries no cost or obligation for the county.

Commissioner Vick introduced the extension and said it was required by the University of Tennessee and that the extension ‘‘does nothing but extend our agreement. There is no cost to the county. There's no expense. There's no obligation. There's no risk.’’ The motion to extend was seconded and approved on a voice vote after finance staff told the commission they had no objection.

The commissioner said the extension is intended to allow the county to continue working with the University of Tennessee Extension Service as the county implements its broadband plan. No dollar amounts or contract text were read aloud during the floor discussion; the commission was told the agreement is straightforward and in the packet.

Next steps noted in the meeting record included completing signatures and housekeeping steps so the county can continue coordinating with the university on broadband efforts.

The extension was approved during a floor motion after being brought directly to the commission (the sponsor said the item did not make committee in time).