Not Just Bethel
Is Concerned

The Herald of March 27 states that the ECFiberNet proposed resolution passed "by large margins at all town meetings where it was on the warning." That was not the case in Rochester.  

Residents indicated support for the concept of universal high-speed internet access, but many residents were concerned about the extent of potential financial commitments involved in the interlocal agreements, which had not been seen by residents. The company's representative at the meeting was unable to explain those commitments, merely referring residents to reading the agreement on the company's internet website.

This was hardly a satisfactory answer with a vote on the resolution pending. As a result, the resolution was amended to authorize the Town of Rochester to "consider" an interlocal contract, rather than to "enter into" such a contract. (The town would be required to hold a special town meeting before entering into the contract.) The amended resolution passed on a voice vote.

Rochester may have missed an opportunity to be an initial participant in EC FiberNet but, more importantly, it will not lend its credit in support of the project without due consideration of all the circumstances.

Franklin D. Sanders

Rochester