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Council reviews nonexclusive fiber master license, seeks right‑of‑way protections
Summary
Council discussed a proposed nonexclusive master license to govern fiber network providers in Mauldin, requiring 30‑day site-and-route notices; councilors stressed HOA permissions for private streets and long‑term right‑of‑way capacity concerns.
Mauldin councilors and staff discussed an ordinance to authorize a nonexclusive master license for fiber network companies, a measure meant to regulate how multiple broadband providers use city rights of way and to require firms to provide site and route notices at least 30 days before permit submissions.
The mayor explained the license would be a blanket, nonexclusive agreement that gives the city oversight and notification rights rather than immediate authority for companies to begin construction. Council members named at least one prospective provider (Ripple Fiber) and discussed other incumbents (AT&T, Frontier) and mobile or satellite alternatives. The mayor emphasized that in private subdivisions the HOA still controls access to private streets and that the license does not remove HOA permissions.
Councilors raised concerns about defining “true fiber” versus other technologies, protecting the condition of the ground and streets during installation, and avoiding oversaturation of poles and conduits in city right‑of‑ways. Staff said the ordinance would include permit controls and notification requirements so the city knows where companies intend to install infrastructure before they proceed.
A motion to advance the ordinance language was made and discussed; the transcript records debate and edits reviewed by the city’s legal staff. The council indicated the item will return for additional consideration and a formal vote at a future meeting. The transcript does not include a final adopted ordinance text in this session.
