Building a broadband communications network using superior fiber optic technology is imperative to having a healthy and competitive economy in the future. Our work environment is changing as we move into this century. Cook County residents have seen traditional jobs in logging and fishing replaced by jobs in the tourism industry. We must seek ways to diversify our economy away from tourism to higher paying jobs.
As our local and national economy keeps moving from manufacturing/agricultural to a service economy, our infrastructure must also change. Manufacturing has never been a sustainable industry in our county due to higher freight cost and a limited number of skilled workers in specialized trades. Broadband technology will provide the capability in our remote location for many new jobs.
Many of my constituents have told me they want to keep their children in the county after high school or college. Building a broadband network is one way to move forward on this desire.
One argument for not supporting broadband is the taxpayers can’t afford to be burdened with any additional federal debt. I would agree with the point that future taxpayers may be burdened with unsustainable debt. However, not supporting the project will not eliminate the potential problem. The stimulus funds committed will be spent to benefit another rural area. We will be paying off the federal stimulus grant debt regardless if the funds are spent in Cook County or elsewhere. If we are going to be paying off a debt, let’s have the money spent locally rather than some rural area in Idaho.
Another argument against broadband is the project is not economically feasible. Again, that is absolutely right. However, this is why the stimulus funds are being made available for broadband infrastructure in rural communities like ours. Funds are only available to communities that require grants to be feasible.
Vote yes (on both #1 and #2) for a competitive and healthy economy in the future
Commissioner Bruce Martinson
Schroeder
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