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Pawlet planners hear broadband rate increase and railtrail improvements; questions remain about income-adjusted pricing
Summary
Commissioners were told the local broadband buildout is largely complete and that user rates will rise by $10 in coming years; commissioners also heard a railtrail update about a picnic bench, parking and a bike repair stand ordered for a Rupert trail segment.
Chair Jessica Van Oort told the commission on Nov. 25 that the Otter Creek Communications Union District has largely completed broadband buildout in town and that user rates will increase by $10 in later years.
Frank Nelson raised the possibility of locking rates via a franchise approach if West Pawlet is included in the high-speed rollout and noted that Fidium, the internet provider mentioned in the discussion, must maintain competitive pricing statewide; Jessica said she did not know whether Fidium offers income-adjusted pricing.
Separately, Frank Nelson reported on the railtrail council: Rupert has been hesitant to enter a lease with VTrans (the trail owner). A grant amendment will add a picnic bench and parking in Rupert, and benches plus a bike repair stand have been ordered.
No public comments were made at the meeting and no formal decisions on broadband pricing or franchise action were taken Nov. 25.
