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Idaho Power, E.T.S. and residents press safety, cost questions as Gooding County broadband work proceeds
Summary
County and utility representatives discussed safety plans, potential attachment costs and route choices for a broadband build along River Road; River Oaks Communications warned the county could face relocation costs if poles are later reclaimed by Idaho Power.
County commissioners and broadband contractors traded concerns and technical details on April 6 as the Gooding County broadband project advances.
Joe Kendall of Idaho Power said he supports the project but raised safety concerns for the public and construction crews and emphasized that Idaho Power must be kept informed about emergencies: "If an emergency happens with the project, E.T.S. is the contact and will respond and perform all maintenance," he said. Kendall and Taylor Yost of Idaho Power outlined pole-attachment terms that the company charges: about $11.09 per attachment and a $1,644 application fee per application (each application covers 50 poles). Kendall added Idaho Power rarely needs to reclaim pole space and said only about 10 poles had been regained in the past.
River Oaks Communications leaders warned of long-term financial risk to the county if Idaho Power’s form agreement allows later removal of attached broadband lines. Tom Duchen, president of River Oaks Communications, said attaching to Idaho Power poles could expose the county to significant relocation costs if Idaho Power later requested removal. "We are worried that a disruption would occur countywide," Duchen said, urging commissioners to consult Lincoln County officials with prior experience.
E.T.S. staff pushed back on feasibility questions and stressed maintenance commitments. Jacob Johnson, chief technician for E.T.S., said E.T.S. would provide annual inspections and ongoing maintenance: "We are 100% committed to working with Idaho Power." Chad Larson of E.T.S. also said the contractor is addressing Idaho Power's safety checklist and traffic control requirements.
Resident Tammy Smith asked why the lines were routed down River Road instead of Highway 30, saying the new lines have affected views along local properties. Jacob Johnson replied the State Broadband group selected River Road to reach underserved residents in that corridor. Commissioner Mark Bolduc said the project must be finished and suggested future grant funds could be used to improve routing or bury lines.
The commissioners did not take a formal vote on a route or attachments at the April 6 meeting; staff and E.T.S. were encouraged to continue coordination with Idaho Power and the highway districts.
