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Lanark council votes to terminate Surf Internet agreement amid contract and transparency concerns
Summary
After months of changing proposals and unclear pricing, Lanark alderpersons voted 5-0 to terminate the city's agreement with Surf Internet and consider Jo-Carroll or other providers for municipal and resident service options.
Lanark alderpersons voted on May 5 to terminate the city’s existing access agreement with Surf Internet after council members expressed concern about moving targets in the provider’s proposals, the absence of a written contract, and disputed costs tied to specific utility locations. Alderperson Mark Macomber moved the termination and Alderperson Ethan Lartz seconded; the motion carried with five aye votes (Alisha Metz absent).
Councilors said Surf had backed away from earlier promises including lifetime price locks, free city internet, and expanded cabling to business districts. While Surf offered a revised proposal (free internet at 13 city sites and a three-year price lock for residents), members said uncertainty about pricing, potential damages, and inconsistent communication left them reluctant to proceed without a formal, clear contract. Several councilors discussed Jo-Carroll as an alternative provider noted for local responsiveness and construction reliability; the city halted the fiber build pending further direction and will pursue follow-up procurement steps.
