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Local internet provider seeks right-of-way access to expand service in Charles City
Summary
Router 12, represented by owner Ryan Balak, asked the council for a right-of-way access agreement to build fiber and provide residential internet service; council asked about permits, customer readiness and compatibility with existing providers.
Staff presented a draft right-of-way agreement modeled on past franchises and said it would allow Router 12 to place infrastructure in city rights of way. Ryan Balak introduced himself and the company: "I own router 12 networks. We're based out of Mason City." He said Router 12 already has customers waiting and plans to build out residential service in the southeast part of town, using some in-ground facilities the company already purchased.
Council members asked about permits, how quickly customers could be signed up and whether the company would compete with existing utilities. Balak said the company is working through permits and design and that having existing in-ground facilities would speed buildout. Staff described the draft as similar to prior agreements with other providers and recommended moving forward with the standard right-of-way terms.
The council thanked the presenter and requested staff follow-up on permits and any legal questions before finalizing the agreement.
