ReConnect broadband: 56 customers connected, project shows $17.16M total and pending RUS approvals

Jeff Ayers, who presented the ReConnect update to the Finance Committee, said 56 customers are connected to the network and staff reviewed phase schedules, permitting and equipment needs.

Ayers outlined procurement and financial status: Eustis Cable is the apparent low bidder at about $2.6 million for a pending contract; the project total is $17,159,012, which includes a $3,631,625 county match, and the balance in the pledged deposit account was listed as $815,474. Staff noted $142,000 in potential charges that may need to be paid from the Infrastructure Reserve and that FRS#51 was approved for $661,288. Ayers also said “There will not be an FRS this month unless RUS approves the 771A with drops on it before then.”

Committee members discussed permitting timelines and noted that DOT and railroad contracts are executed but some permits remain pending. Ayers said the second order of splitters was expected to be delivered and that H&M are ready to install. He warned that RUS (the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service) approvals and outstanding vendor figures are gating the submission of a complete package and the timing of future financial reports.

The update was accepted as information.