A coalition of Huron County's internet service providers has asked the county for $7-million over the next seven years to get high speed internet service to the last-mile-homes in the county.
Glenn Grubb, representing Hurontel, was joined by Angela Lawrence of Hay Communications and Rob Van Aaken of Tuckersmith Communications.
Grubb told council that roughly 82% of the county has high speed internet now, and when the project is completed that number will be 98%.
Grubb said he agreed with the recent announcement from the CRTC that high speed internet is a necessity, and a survey the local providers conducted supports that statement.
Some councillors said people they had spoken with felt high speed internet was more important to them than having their road paved. Councillors said without it, Huron County residents, businesses and farmers are at a distinct competitive disadvantage.
Grubb said the county's commitment would covers the cost of preparing the application to submit to the federal government for the $15-million it will take to complete the project.
Council asked staff to come back with a report as soon as possible.
Grubb also pointed out they need a commitment from the county as soon as possible so they can get the application completed and submitted ahead of the April 20 deadline.
Glenn Grubb, Hurontel. (photo by Bob Montgomery)