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Council approves first reading of nonexclusive Metro FiberNet franchise ordinance
Summary
The Moorhead City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 2026‑05 to grant Metro FiberNet a nonexclusive fiber‑optic franchise to use the public right of way. The company will pay permitting/right‑of‑way fees but no franchise fee can be required because it will not provide cable programming.
The Moorhead City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 2026‑05 on July 13, granting Metro FiberNet a nonexclusive franchise to build a fiber‑optic network and use the public right of way.
A Metro FiberNet representative introduced on the record as Reitz described the company’s plans: "Metro FiberNet is seeking to build a fiber optic network in the community and intends to use the public right of way for this purpose." The presenter told the council Metro FiberNet would not offer multichannel video programming (cable), so state law prevents the city from requiring a franchise fee; instead, Metro FiberNet will pay permitting and right‑of‑way fees to compensate the city for impacts and administration.
There was no public comment on the franchise. The council opened and closed the public hearing, then approved the ordinance’s first reading by roll‑call vote.
