Internet Access
Is Political Issue

Broadband Internet access is a big challenge for rural Vermont. Our topography and sparse population, while attractive to us, discourage land-based internet (DSL and cable) providers who seek large profits. Yet we need affordable access for economic development and education. The solution is in the hands of ourselves and our representatives.

I am pleased to see that three local candidates for public office share a positive vision and will take—or continue to take—positive action:

Matt Dunne, while our state senator, promoted a small grant program to stimulate Vermont towns to plan and attract small businesses to install fixed wireless solutions to this problem. Windsor and Strafford are two of the early beneficiaries of this program.

Jim Masland and Irv Thomae are candidates for state representative who have convinced me that they are serious about helping bring broadband internet access to our homes. Jim Masland helped us in Strafford intercede with state offices to try to permit the use of multi-use state lands in this endeavor, and he has been active in Thetford's broadband internet zoning and planning. Irv Thomae has had a career in education and communication using computers and the Internet. He appreciates the small steps that Vermont is taking, and he supports the acceleration and expansion to reach all of our citizens.

I believe my votes for these candidates will help Vermont in a tangible way.

Chuck Sherman

Strafford