Darin Atteberry

As community expectations and the need for fast, reliable broadband services rise, we continue to receive inquiries regarding slow Internet speeds in Fort Collins. These questions lead me and members of City Council to believe there is a need to identify the current gaps and look at opportunities for improvement.

Advanced broadband and high-speed Internet services are critical to the economic and social vitality of our community. As new, “next generation” very high-speed Internet services are becoming available throughout the country, we have included a Broadband Strategic Plan proposal in the 2015-16 city manager’s recommended budget. If approved by City Council, this funding will be used to evaluate case studies of other municipal broadband services; gather feedback from the community; and explore different service options, including various public-private partnerships as well as offering broadband as a new utility service through the city.

I’m excited to see the full picture and review all options. There are no predetermined outcomes involved, other than to ensure Fort Collins’ competiveness and to look out for our long-term needs. This potential investment could have huge implications for Fort Collins. This strategic process will research the immediate and potential long-range value of advanced broadband service to the community. It’s important to learn what other communities have done and what lessons can be gleaned from their experiences.

This study will allow us to make informed, data-driven decisions for our residents and businesses. Results will also provide an understanding of the communication needs of Fort Collins’ residents, businesses and educational institutions, and whether existing services and networks are keeping pace.

When the study concludes, I hope to have a thorough analysis of all telecommunication options, including information on how other cities have responded to similar situations and what opportunities would best fit Fort Collins. If study outcomes reveal community support for more direct city involvement in broadband services, this request may be added to the ballot in 2016, consistent with Colorado law, asking voters for permission to add these services.

Telecommunications are an integral part of our competitiveness. Citizen input and participation will be critical to the success of the project as we evaluate options and strive to maintain Fort Collins’ reputation as a vibrant and innovative community.

Darin Atteberry is the Fort Collins city manager. Contact him at (970) 221-6505 or datteberry@fcgov.com.