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Midco proposes fiber build in Janesville; council accepts first reading and schedules public hearing
Summary
Midco representatives presented a franchise application proposing a fiber network that would pass about 1,693 homes in Janesville; the council accepted the ordinance as a first reading and set a public hearing for Nov. 24 at 7:00 p.m.
Janesville — The Janesville City Council accepted the first reading of a cable franchise agreement with Midco after a company presentation outlining plans to install a fiber network in the city.
"We are before you tonight. We've submitted a cable franchise application for your consideration," said Ellie Burroughs, a Midco representative, who described the company's plan to provide cable television, fiber internet, landline and mobile services in Janesville.
Midco told the council it estimates roughly 95,000 feet of fiber infrastructure and about 1,693 homes passed within the Janesville city limits. The company said it aims to begin construction in spring 2026 and hopes to complete the main infrastructure by the end of 2026. Midco emphasized local customer service, pre-registration for residents who want a pre-buried drop, resident notifications including door tags and yard signs, and an online status page at midco.com/hello.
City Attorney Jason Moran explained the process: "Tonight is essentially the first reading of this ordinance." He said a public hearing will follow — the council set that hearing for Nov. 24 at 7:00 p.m. Moran described the franchise as standard and non‑exclusive and noted cities may impose franchise fees generally between 2% and 7%, with Janesville historically charging about 5%.
Council members asked about Midco's track record, local support, and total investment in the community. Midco said it would provide an estimate of the company's investment in Janesville and noted it operates in a five‑state footprint with corporate headquarters in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. A council member raised concerns that existing utility structures and prior repairs in some parts of town might make stringing new fiber difficult; Midco responded that it performs locates before work, coordinates crossings with other utilities and will work with the city to resolve conflicts.
A council member moved and the council seconded to accept the proposed franchise ordinance as the first reading; the motion carried by voice vote (tally not specified in the transcript). The franchise will return to the council after the Nov. 24 public hearing for further action.
Next steps: the public hearing on the Midco franchise will be at 7:00 p.m. on Nov. 24, where residents may provide public comment before the council proceeds to subsequent readings or a final vote.
