Lehi city fiber network

Every hearing and vote

1. December 8, 2020 · City Council

   Resolution 2020-77: up to $64 million in revenue bonds for a city fiber network

   Approved · 5-0

   The resolution authorizes bonds of not more than $64,000,000 (total estimated cost $90,537,000 over the life of the bonds, per bond counsel) to engineer and build a city fiber network. Mayor Mark Johnson said the effort followed two years of study and a consultant analysis. Finance Director Dean Lundell and Mr. Walker said the bonds are meant to be repaid from user fees, with franchise fees pledged only to secure a better rating and rate. A parameters resolution lets designated officers finalize the sale within set limits; the required public hearing was set for Jan. 12. Mac Sims urged the city to provide infrastructure for many private providers rather than compete. Council Member Chris Condie asked about effects on future bonding for parks and a fire station and was told the structure leaves room. Council Member Koivisto said the network serves residents and creates a competitive market.

   Moved by Council Member Condie, seconded by Council Member Hancock. Vote: 5-0; unanimous

2. January 12, 2021 · City Council

   Public hearing: up to $64 million in fiber network revenue bonds

   Discussed

   Kelly Nichols, Montina Hamilton and Dennis Beatty spoke in favor of a city fiber network, citing competition and service to homes. Spencer Wanesgaurd said the city is trying to solve a problem that does not exist. No vote was taken at the hearing.

3. February 23, 2021 · City Council

   Fiber project borrowing (administrative report)

   Discussed

   Finance Director Dean Lundell recommended borrowing 85 percent of the fiber project money up front, saying rates are good and could rise if the city waits.

4. October 11, 2022 · City Council

   Fiber network access and retail service agreements with five providers (Resolution 2022-89)

   Approved · 5-0

   The council approved non-exclusive network access and retail service agreements with Beehive Broadband, Centracom, Intellipop, Sumofiber and Xmission.

   Moved by Council Member Mike Southwick, seconded by Council Member Katie Koivisto. Vote: 5-0

5. November 15, 2022 · City Council

   Fiber network update (pre-council)

   Discussed

   Shaye Ruitenbeek said all internet provider agreements are signed, pricing would be released the next month and the backbone design is being finalized.

6. December 13, 2022 · City Council

   Fiber network update (pre-council)

   Discussed

   Shaye Ruitenbeek said provider pricing for residential customers was released and that the city is looking at government programs offering lower-cost options for low-income families. Carl Sundstrom updated the council on construction and said the buildings will have fencing around them.

7. January 10, 2023 · City Council

   Fiber network update (pre-council)

   Discussed

   Shaye Ruitenbeek and Carl Sundstrom updated the council on the fiber project.