Standing strong with Piscataquis commissioners on broadband issue

To the Editor: 

I am writing this to voice my support for the Commissioners of Piscataquis County. Our County  Commissioners have been working hard to protect the interests of the people of Piscataquis County and  also our futures. This is especially apparent in the battle over the funding for broadband in our area. 

The commissioners have been very clear that there are more pressing needs that require the attention of  the federal funds (American Rescue Plan Act) that they are in charge of. They have also made it known that broadband is quickly becoming outdated, even before it can get here. Once it’s here, the cost of the maintenance to broadband wires will be a huge burden to the taxpayers of the county. 

The proponents of broadband have even admitted that wireless is the future. Why are we being told that “fiber” is the only option for the internet? Why do we have to pay 10 times for broadband that soon will  be obsolete, when there are already better wireless options available? 

The county budget allocates $100,000 to the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council. What are the taxpayers getting in return? Very little it seems, except for more wires and demands for more money. 

The commissioners are right to hold the line. The people already have access to a wireless future right  now. Why pay 10 times more? I hear the stars are a better option.

Dalton Blais 

Dover-Foxcroft