NEWARK, NJ — You're almost certainly reading this article on the internet. And if so, you've got a stake in the Federal Communications Commission's recent decision to repeal its rules on "net neutrality," whether you like it or not.

But despite the FCC's controversial ruling earlier this month – which many people fear may harm equal access to the internet - there will be a "net neutral" option in Newark, the city's mayor says. See related article: FCC Votes To Repeal Net Neutrality Rules According to a recent announcement from Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, the city, which controls much of its network infrastructure and offers its own broadband service, Newark Fiber, will continue to guarantee equal access to the internet for local business and residents, even in the face of the FCC's recent decision.

Baraka said that city officials and the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC), which runs the Newark Fiber program, are committed to keeping the program fair and open to all, and never showing preference to websites that pay more. To honor this commitment, the city will make certain that its existing and future contracts with third-parties who help connect its network to the internet always include a clause ensuring "net neutrality," Baraka said. In addition, city officials will begin exploring legal means to ensure that its network will always remain "net neutral."

According to city officials, Newark Fiber is a public-private partnership between the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation and Gigxero, which works with companies to establish high-speed networks. The program offers 1,000 mb and 10,000 mb speed for buildings, in parks, on the streets and eventually in homes. Several office buildings in the downtown area are already connected to the network, and the city has plans to expand the service in 2018. "The internet has always been about bringing the information from around the world to your fingertips, not picking and choosing that information based on how much you can afford to pay," Baraka said.

"We believe Newark can be home to the businesses of the future, and we want to create the best possible environment for them," said Aisha Glover, CEO of the NCEDC. "The city has long been a leader in infrastructure like canals, railways, water systems, sea and air ports, and telecommunications. This program leverages that infrastructure to equip Newark for the 21st century."

WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL ABOUT 'NET NEUTRALITY?' Many experts say that without the FCC rules - put in place in 2015 under President Obama - cable and telecom companies could potentially throttle internet speeds for users at less-preferred websites. Supporters of net neutrality worry that consumers do not have enough options among internet service providers to avoid getting taking advantage of. They argue that companies like Verizon and Comcast may favor their own online content over independent outlets or that owned by other companies, while making it harder for new entrants to join the market.