Mount Clemens approves Metro Act right-of-way permit for Metro Fibernet (Metronet)

The Mount Clemens City Commission approved a Metro Act right-of-way permit for Metro Fibernet LLC (doing business as Metronet) to install a fiber-optic network within the city’s public rights-of-way.

City staff explained the permit was reviewed by the city attorney and said completion of the project would enable the provider to offer internet, voice and related services to residents and businesses along the construction routes. Staff noted that fees for Metro Act permits are paid to the state and only limited funding flows back to municipalities; a staff member estimated past state distributions to the city at roughly $32,000 annually but said the exact line item varies.

During discussion, staff and commissioners explained that the Metropolitan Extension Telecommunications Rights-of-Way Oversight Act (commonly called the Metro Act) constrains local governments’ ability to deny access because the act favors expedited deployment of broadband, making it difficult for municipalities to refuse timely applications.

The permit passed on a roll-call vote; one commissioner voted no. Commissioners asked staff to provide the commission with details on historical payments the city has received from state distributions and to clarify typical rights-of-way construction practices and resident concerns about contractor activity on private property.

What happens next: the applicant may proceed with permitting and construction steps under the Metro Act permit; staff will follow up with the commission on past state distributions and with residents about right-of-way work practices.

Vote: Motion to approve the Metro Act right-of-way permit for Metro Fibernet LLC passed (roll call recorded in the meeting).