County Commissioners Looking At Broadband Options

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With massive amounts of federal money pouring into communities across the United States, the Berrien County Board of Commissioners is considering how some of it could be used to expand broadband internet. However, there’s a problem with current state law that could prevent some broadband projects. Speaking at Thursday’s meeting, Commissioner Teri Freehling said broadband is not among the utilities that could be covered by special assessment districts. County Administrator Brian Dissette said that would prevent townships from using federal aid to partially fund broadband projects in some cases.

“There are blocks currently within the Michigan legislation that just doesn’t allow you to use special assessments as a way to recover any overage,” Dissette said. “So as Commissioner Freehling just noted, this is something that needs to get fixed because every township, every county is talking about broadband.”

Dissette said he’s spoken with Michigan Association of Counties about the issue, and reached out to local state lawmakers. Freehling said there are bills in the Legislature now that would address it.