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South Central declines broadband grant for Redland/Highway 24 area; county eyes BrightSpeed as fallback
Summary
County staff reported that South Central Connect declined a state broadband grant for the Redland/Highway 24 area and may incur a penalty; staff said BrightSpeed is the likely alternative and will invite the broadband committee co-facilitator to present an update next month.
Nevada County officials told the quorum court that a provider awarded a state broadband grant for parts of the Redland/Highway 24 area has declined the award, leaving the state broadband office to consider alternatives and potential penalties.
A county presenter said South Central Connect had been awarded the area but sent a letter to the state broadband office refusing the grant because the company said buildout would be costly (the presenter estimated $3'$4 million) and noted South Central lacks electrical poles in that area. The presenter said the company may face a penalty for applying and then declining the grant; the presenter estimated the fine could be as much as about $500,000.
County staff said the state broadband office is considering options and that BrightSpeed is likely to accept the award and service the area if the state reassigns the grant. The presenter suggested inviting Danny Stewart, co-facilitator of the county broadband committee, to the next quorum court meeting to provide an update and answer technical questions.
The court also heard that very remote areas may ultimately rely on satellite services (Starlink) where wired buildouts are impractical.
Ending: County staff will invite Danny Stewart for a fuller briefing at the next meeting and report back on the state broadband office's decision.
