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Select Board votes to withdraw from Deer Valley Communications Union and accept affiliate status if offered
Summary
The Jamaica Select Board voted to withdraw from the Deer Valley Communications Union (DV Fiber) and signaled willingness to accept a non‑voting affiliate status if DV/DB Fiber offers it; the board discussed Consolidated Communications winning a grant to build in the area and concerns about last‑mile reach.
The Select Board voted on a motion to withdraw the town from the Deer Valley Communications Union and to accept affiliate status from DB/DV Fiber if that option is offered. Chair moved the resolution, noting it was done “with a heavy heart,” and members responded in the affirmative.
Chris, the town’s DV/DB Fiber representative, told the board that Consolidated Communications won the grant that covers the area and that DV Fiber faces competition and overbuilding. He said he recommended creating a non‑voting affiliate status so towns that cannot maintain a representative could remain informed and rejoin if circumstances change: “I’ve recommended to DB Fiber’s leadership that they create a non voting affiliate status so that towns like ours ... would like to be informed and be in a position to rejoin,” he said.
Board members described the decision as reluctant but pragmatic: with Consolidated Communications awarded the grant, DB/DV Fiber’s prospects for building in Jamaica are uncertain and town volunteers are limited. The Chair said he would notify Drew Hazleton (West River contacts) that the board will indicate its interest and that the town expects to be kept informed about affiliate opportunities.
Sources: Chair; Chris (DV/DB Fiber representative).
