Some years, muni telecom gets a break. This year isn’t one of them. Rep. Keith Grover has introduced HB273 which would effectively ban Provo from using utility surcharges as a way to cover iProvo debt payment shortfalls. It’s unclear as to if this would have any effect on UTOPIA, but the bill does include some vague language concerning charging “just and reasonable” rates. Depending on how the legislation is implemented, this could prevent UTOPIA from differentiating wholesale prices depending on volume or require that they match rates with other networks.
Any way you slice it, this is a bill very explicitly targeted at removing operational flexibility from municipal networks. I highly recommend you contact Rep. Grover to urge him to reconsider.
Does this mean he will also be refunding the fees they charged residents back in the 70’s and 80’s when they first put down cabel access?
My Provo family will be stoked!!! Oh wait, no? This is just something to get out of a decision anyone could have particpated in the city of Provo making but had better things to do. Its really awesome for Utopia to be getting so many back into dealing with their representatives AND bring the internet like its supposed to be to our homes!!!