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Residents and staff question OmniFiber outreach as city warns about state preemption
Summary
Residents reported OmniFiber offers in neighborhoods while staff warned that state law and PUCO jurisdiction limit local control; the city manager said prior talks "did not end well" and the city will enforce rules it can while recognizing limits on local authority.
Residents raised concern that commercial mailings and promotional signs from OmniFiber suggested service availability in parts of Canfield. Ken Cermelli told council that Armstrong has placed fiber in his neighborhood and that new flags in yards prompted questions. City Manager Dapolito said the township and city have held discussions with OmniFiber and "it did not end well," adding staff is trying to work with providers but has limited authority where state statutes or PUCO jurisdiction apply.
City Attorney Fortunato reminded council that state law can constrain local regulation of some broadband installations and noted competitive companies can each install fiber under PUCO rules; he urged the city will enforce local rules where permitted and asked residents to contact the city for confirmation before signing up for service. Staff said residents should call the city if they see suspicious sales activity and that the city will aim to provide clear guidance to customers.
