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Broadband remains a multi-year challenge despite options, Whidbey Telecom says
Summary
Presenters and residents discussed broadband as essential for economic development; Whidbey Telecom cautioned that delivering fiber-to-home across Point Roberts is unlikely within six months and that realistic timelines are measured in years, while pole-mounted and alternative technologies are under consideration.
Committee members and port staff emphasized broadband as critical to Point Roberts' economic prospects; the port said the PUD is advancing design but that archeological and grant constraints affect timelines. Residents asked for practical discussions about alternatives to pure underground fiber and urged focused conversations with people who know funding and technology tradeoffs.
Donna Hilton of Whidbey Telecom, joining remotely, pushed back on an overly optimistic timeline and offered technical context: "This is 3 and 4 year plans, because that's what it takes to get these things done." She noted that many grants focus on speed targets rather than the specific mechanism and that pole-mounted attachments (PSE poles) and other technologies can expand options if approvals and engineering proceed.
The committee agreed to invite PUD staff (Andrew) back for a fuller update and to convene a follow-up discussion of feasible alternatives, funding realities and a realistic schedule for design, permitting and construction.
