MUNICIPAL BROADBAND: Southwick’s Fiber Network Proposal Faces Scrutiny Amid Financial Uncertainties

[Southwick] November 22, 2024 - Southwick’s Select Board has launched a community survey to gauge interest in a proposed $15 million town-owned fiber optic network, amid concerns about the project's financial feasibility. The High Speed Internet Committee (HSIC) seeks to understand public support before requesting borrowing authorization at the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. Despite the potential benefits touted by proponents, significant uncertainties linger regarding the true costs of implementation, particularly related to the make-ready expenses for utility poles, currently estimated at $4.43 million but still not fully assessed. The project's success hinges on achieving a 50% subscription rate from residents, a threshold necessary to ensure that the network can financially sustain itself without resorting to taxpayer subsidies. This initiative follows past financial challenges, notably the town's sewer system project, adding a layer of caution to the proceedings.