05 - November 5, 2020 Connectivity Committee Agenda Package
CONNECTIVITYCOMMITTEEMEETING
Thursday,, 2020
Table of Contents
I.Agenda……………………………………………………………………………...2
II.October 22, 2020Minutes………………………………………………………...3
III.Action Plan Update……………………….……………………………………….8
IV.Conduit in Road Allowances…..……………………………………………….....16
V.Local Municipal PartnerConnectivity Question Responses #2……………….26
VI.Government Outreach……………………………………………………………..30
VI.……………..3
1
CONNECTIVITY COMMITTEE
MEETING
Thursday,November 5, 2020
1:00 p.m.
Meeting to be held electronically.
Agenda
Approvalof Agenda
Adoption ofOctober22, 2020 Minutes
Disclosure ofPecuniary Interest and theGeneral NatureThereof
Delegation: IndependentTelecommunications Providers Association(ITPA)
–Jonathan Holmes, ITPA Executive Director, Grant Roughley, VP Northern
FrontenacTelephoneCompany, Ian Stevens, CEO ExeculinkTelecom
(Presentationtobe circulated in advanceof the meeting)
Action PlanUpdate–Councillor Marks, ChiefAdministrative Officer
Conduitin Road Allowances-Director of Engineering Services
Summary of Discussion with Local MunicipalPartners–Chief Administrative
Officer
Broadband Government Outreach–Director ofFinancialServices, General
Managerof Economic Development
Summary of MunicipalBroadband Masterclass with Jesse Hirsh Summary–
Councillor Giguère (Vice Chair), Legislative Service Coordinator
Date of Next Meeting
Adjournment
2
Meeting:Connectivity Committee
Date: October 22, 2020
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location:Webex
Attendees: Tom Marks, Councillor andCommitteeChair
Dominique Giguère, Councillor and Committee Vice Chair
Dave Mennill, Warden
Justin Pennings, Community Member
Mike Andrews, Community Member
Shawn Southern, Community Member
Regrets:Joshua Kiirya, Community Member
Staff:Julie Gonyou, Chief Administrative Officer
Jim Bundschuh, Director of Financial Services
Alan Smith, General Manager of Economic Development
Al Reitsma, Manager of Information Technology
Cecil Coxen, IT Manager – Township of Malahide
Katherine Thompson, Supervisor of Legislative Services
Carolyn Krahn, Legislative Services Coordinator
DRAFT MINUTES
1.Call to Order
nd
The Connectivity Committee met this 22day of October, 2020. The meeting
was called to order at 1:00 p.m.
2.Approval of Agenda
Moved by: Warden Mennill
Seconded by:Councillor Giguère
RESOLVED THAT the agenda be amended to includea report from the Chief
Administrative Officer regardingLocal Municipal Partner Connectivity Question
Responses.
3
Recorded Vote
YesNo
MikeAndrewsYes
CouncillorYes
WardenMennillYes
ShawnSouthernYes
JustinPenningsYes
CouncillorMarksYes
60
-Motion Carried.
3.Adoption of October 8, 2020 Minutes
Moved by: Mike Andrews
Seconded by: Justin Pennings
Resolved that the minutes of the previous meeting be adopted.
Recorded Vote
YesNo
MikeAndrewsYes
CouncillorYes
WardenMennillYes
ShawnSouthernYes
JustinPenningsYes
CouncillorMarksYes
60
-Motion Carried.
4.Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest andthe General Nature Thereof
None.
5.Elgin County Connectivity Committee:Literature Review
Erin Braam and Merrill Taylor, Community and Cultural Services, presented
profiles of five (5) communities in Ontario and Alberta that have successfully
implemented rural broadband Internet projects: Amherstburg, ON; Olds, AB;
4
Chatham, ON; Chapleau First Nations, ON; and Timiskaming and Gogama-
Foleyet, ON.
Moved by: Warden Mennill
Seconded by Justin Pennings
RESOLVED THAT the October 15th, 2020 report titled Elgin County Connectivity
Committee Literature Review submitted by Erin Braam, Natalie Marlowe and
Merrill Taylor, be received and filed for information; and
THAT staff be directed tofollow up with each community and report back on the
type of technology used, the partners involved, the projected and actual costs,
funding source breakdown, population density of the community, number of
properties served, number of kilometres of fiber installed, and the status of the
project.
Recorded Vote
YesNo
MikeAndrewsYes
CouncillorYes
WardenMennillYes
ShawnSouthernYes
JustinPenningsYes
CouncillorMarksYes
60
-Motion Carried.
6.Action Plan Update
The Chief Administrative Officer presented an update ontheCommittee’s Action
Plan, noting completed actions, ongoing actions, and upcoming activities.
Moved by:
Seconded by: Mike Andrews
RESOLVED THAT the Action Plan Update presented by the Chief Administrative
Officer be received and filed.
5
Recorded Vote
YesNo
MikeAndrewsYes
CouncillorYes
WardenMennillYes
ShawnSouthernYes
JustinPenningsYes
CouncillorMarksYes
60
-Motion Carried.
7.Local Municipal Partner Connectivity Question Responses
TheChief Administrative Officer presented information gathered from Elgin’s
Local Municipal Partners regarding connectivity in their respective municipalities.
The Chief Administrative Officer willcontinue to collectinformation from the
remaining Local Municipal Partners and report back to the Committee at a later
date.
8.Internet Forum
The General Manager of Economic Development presented a draft outline of the
Rural Internet Forum and sought Committee feedback. The purpose of the
Forum is to have a conversation with ISPs about best-practices and to review the
general public survey results.The length of the forum will be three (3) hours with
two (2) hours for presentations and one (1) hour for facilitated discussion. The
first Rural Internet Forum is scheduled for December 3 at 9:00 a.m. A second
end user forum to include public feedback willalsobe considered.
9.Draft Connectivity Survey (Public) Communications Plan
The Supervisor of Legislative Servicespresented the Connectivity Survey
Communications Plan, which includes steps to promote the survey to the public.
Staff will monitor the survey response. If more promotion is needed, staff will
investigate mass mailing options.
6
10.Draft Internet Service Provider Survey
The Supervisor of Legislative Services presented a draft survey for current
Internet Service Providers, and Committee Members provided feedback. Staff
will update and distribute the survey to local Internet Service Providers.
11.Date of Next Meeting
The Committee will meet again on Thursday, November 5at 1:00 p.m.
12.Adjournment
The meetingwasadjournedat 2:32 p.m.
7
presented to
–
w seeking additional
Executive Director of the
Notes/Updates Literature Review completed by Community and Cultural Services Committee October 22, 2020 (attached). Staff have contacted communities in Literature Revieinformation as
requested by the Committee. An update will be provided at meeting 6.Research to identify best practices will be ongoing. Mike Andrews facilitated connection. TheIndependent Telecommunications
Providers Association will attend Connectivity Committee Meeting #5 (November 5, 2020).
of the
Services
HOW?Utilize Reference Librarian Support from Community and Cultural Timeline: 2 weeks for preliminary research; 2 weeks for analysis.OngoingMike Andrews to facilitate connectionDelegation
to committee Timeline: Meeting 4 or 5 subject to availability group
worked well?
8
What has worked well?What has not worked well?What has What has not worked well?
WHAT DO WE WANT TO KNOW?Lessons learnedWho did they work with to make it happen?What made the business case work for building rural fibre?Lessons learnedWho did they work with to make
it happen?What made the business case work for building rural fibre?
Actions Conduct a literature review to identify what other rural communities have done to address connectivity challenges and issues (i.e. best practices, emerging practices, lessons
learned, etc.)Meet with the Independent Telecommunications Providers Association
Conduct an Environmental Scan
,
th
to
to be provided at
It is anticipated that an update will be provided the Committee at Meetings #5 & 6. Collection of additional information as requested by the Committee is ongoing. It is anticipated
that an update will be available at meeting #6.Update meeting #5 on November 52020.
6 weeks after
-
Following the literature review (communities to be identified in literature review).Timeline: 4literature review, dependent on community partner availability (COVID/resourcing concerns)HOW?Jim
will connect with the TVDSB and report back to committee.Timeline: Meeting #5
9
What has worked well?What has not worked well?
How did they make the business case to internet service providers?What did they do to make the business case work?Lessons learned Who did they work with to make it happen?WHAT DO WE
WANT TO KNOW?How many students do not have access to internet at home?Are there particular locations where students don’t have access to the internet?
emented connectivity
existing data that can help to inform
A. Thames Valley District School Board
Talk to other communities who have successfully implsolutions SOURCE Gather the development of a connectivity strategy in Elgin. Contact the following organizations to access their
data:
Gather Existing Data
2020 has been sent to ISP
SWIFT is available as a resource as needed. An ISP Survey as approved by the Committee on October 22,providers in Elgin with a letter from the Chair requesting participation. Results
to be presented at meeting #6 subject to ISP availability. Update will be provided at Meeting #5.Update will be provided at Meeting #5. Update will be provided at Meeting #5.
–
draft completed
–
Discussion with Barry FieldSurvey by the committeeTimeline: Meeting #4 distribution following meeting by email invitationJim will connect with OMAFRA and report back to committee.Timeline:
Meeting #5Alan Smith will connect with the Chamber of Commerce (Aylmer and St. Thomas) and report back.Timeline: Meeting #5Katherine will connect with Public Health and report back.
that are not being
gaps?
10
connectivity currently look like in
you aware of any areas that are underserved?
What does Elgin?Where have you identified gaps?What does connectivity currently look like in Elgin?Where have you identified Would you be willing to have a one on one discussion with
Committee Chair?Are you aware of any areas that are not being served? Where?Are you aware of any areas that are underserved? Where?Are you aware of any areas that are not being served?
Where?Are Where?Are you aware of any areas served? Where?
B.SWIFTC.Current ProvidersD.OMAFRAE.Chamber of CommerceF.Public Health
going.
-
, 2020 meeting.
th
Survey completed October15, 2020. Communications/Distribution Plan attached for Committee Review (October 22, 2020).Survey collection is onPromotions continue. Staff to provide numbers
at the November 5Preliminary feedback has been gathered. A fulsome report will be provided to the Committee at Meeting #5.
k #4.
plan to include
online and paper,
social media,
–
–
Timeline: Meeting #5 How Survey distribution local municipal partners and Elgin’s librariesOnline County website, LMP websitesPress Release and paid advertisements in local media outlets.Timeline
for survey: Week #4Virtual Input SessionLocal Administrators to discuss strategy. CAO will report back WeeCounty Councillors
11
need to know
Are you aware of any areas that are underserved? Where?What we Where do you live?What do you have now? What is the speed? What do you pay for it? What do you need? What are you willing
to contribute to the solution?What are you doing? Where are the underserved areas?
End Users (businesses/homeowners)Local Municipal Partners
Stakeholder A.B.
Engage Stakeholders
-
, 2020 (meeting #5)
th
genda package.
Information from ChathamKent will be included in the follow up to the Literature Review to be presented at Meeting #6A report from the Director of Engineering Services is included in
the November 5a
to Warden
WardenIT Manager to IT ManagerEngineer to EngineerThis will be ongoing.Staff to connect with potential infrastructure partners and provide updates when available.Engineering Services
to provide financial information regarding infrastructure opportunities (conduit). This will be ongoing.
12
What are you willing to contribute to the solution? Are you undertaking any infrastructure projects/road work that we could leverage to install fibre?What have you done? What has worked
well? What has not worked well?Are you undertaking any infrastructure projects/road work that we could leverage to install fibre?What are you willing to contribute to the solution?
Engineering Services
–
Kent
-
ChathamElgin County LMPsUtilities
Neighbouring MunicipalitiesPotential Infrastructure Partners
C.D.
-
nt is on
, 2020 as a date
rd
Information will be presented at Meeting #5. The Committee selected December 3for the Internet Forum. A framework for the virtual event was approved by the Committee at the October 22,
2020 meeting. Planning for this evegoing.
views with
following meeting
–
Gather existing data Timeline: Week #5If needed, consider survey. Internet Forum (Committee to set date in November 2020.)Survey #4One on one interinterested ISPs, following the survey
and forum.
improve connectivity?
13
How many students do not have access to internet at home?Are there particular locations where students don’t have access to the internet?What are the current costs of rural internet,
and do they prevent access?What are you willing to contribute to the solution?What can you do to What are you willing to contribute? What do you need to achieve the last mile?How can
we work together to implement solutions? How can we make the business case work to build rural fibre?Can you share with us any user complaints regarding rural internet access?Have you
conducted a cost benefit analysis for building rural fibre? If yes, can you share that information with us?
Thames Valley District School BoardCurrent Internet Providers and small providers
E.F.
user feedback
-
30.
reliminary information will
Presentation from Barry Field received by Committee at Meeting #3. To be completed following analysis of endreceived through survey. Pbe presented to the Committee at Meeting #5. A
meeting has been arranged with Minister Yurek for October
S
point access
Interview withBarry Field SOLUTION WirelessPoint to HOW Director of Finance to report back with options and opportunities.Warden, Chairman and CAO to meet with MPP Yurek. Timeline: October
2020
14
What are your current plans? What is your ultimate goal?Where are the gaps? What are the challenges? Where are you going, and how can we help?What are your timelines?HOW?End User Survey/Existing
Data CONTACT Director of Financial ServicesMPP
Infrastructure Ontario
-
Loans
SWIFT
G.WHAT DO WE NEED TO KNOW?Where are the problem areas?What are the potential solutions?FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES CountyProvincial Government
Term
-
Identify ShortSolutionsExplore Funding Opportunities
OngoingOngoing
reliminary information will reliminary information will
A meeting has been arranged for with MP Vecchio for November 12.Pbe presented to the Committee at Meeting #5. Pbe presented to the Committee at Meeting #5.
)
Warden, Chairman, and CAO to meet with MP Vecchio. Timeline: October 2020Staff to provide anoverview of program and available fundingDirector of Finance to report back with options and
opportunities.
(communication)
ublic procurement process etc.
(p
Committee (staff).
expectations
15
(staff/COVID)
What is missing?
Capacity
MP
Committee, public, and stakeholder
The role of the County is to support the
anaging
M
Seek County Council support for a Made in Elgin solution for connectivity challenges.
Required processes and Council consent may take time
Federal GovernmentCRTCCanada Infrastructure Bank
Identify the Role of the CountyRisks
REPORT TO CONNECTIVITY
COMMITTEE
FROM:Brian Lima,Director of Engineering
Services
DATE:October 28, 2020
SUBJECT: Conduit in Road Allowances
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the report titled “Conduit in Road Allowances” from Elgin County’s Director of
Engineering Services dated October 28, 2020 be received and filed.
INTRODUCTION:
Over the last decade, businesses and residents have identified fast, reliable, accessible
and available internet connectivity as a priority for economic development andsocial
equity. As part of the modern global economy, there is a recognition that thecitizens
and businesses of Elgin Countyneed connectivity that is world-leading in its speed and
accessibility.
The County has been supporting the deployment of broadband and advanced
telecommunications infrastructure for a number of years. Examples of this include
encouraging telecom companies to lay fibre optic cable at the same time as the County
undertakes road reconstruction projects, accommodating the location of
telecommunications towers, andencouraging the inclusion of telecom infrastructure
within County facilities.
As part of theConnectivity Committee Action Plan, the Director of Engineering Services
was directed to investigate the practices and costs associated with infrastructure
opportunities (conduit)and to report back to the Committee.
DISCUSSION:
What isBroadband?
There is no one standard definition for “broadband”. Simply put, broadbandmeans
internet access that is always on, available at higher speeds thantraditional dial up
16
service, and capable of transmitting large amounts ofdata very quickly. There are
several different forms of broadband internettechnologies, including telephone-based
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), cable,wireless (fixed and satellite), and fibre-optic. Each
of these technologies havedifferent capabilities for maximum service speed (expressed
in megabytesper second, or Mbps).
Figure 1:Broadband technology options and their highest servicespeeds
*Fibre optic service speed is limited by the electronics at either end of the line, as opposed to
the fibre itself, which can theoretically transmit data at the speed of light.
Broadband is now essential to economic growth. Broadband connects residents and
businesses to billions of devices and users around the world creating a digital overlay to
our physical world that has revolutionized how we work, play, live, learn, govern and
informour residents and relate to the world.
All of the above broadband technology options are currently beingused in Elgin County.
Telephone and cable lines, where they exist,are commonly used to deliver internet
services in established areas. Inrural areas where there is no existing “wired”
infrastructure, wirelessbroadband technology is common. For newer construction and
areaswith supportive customer densities, ISPs may be installing fibre-optic service,
which is currently the latest and fastest broadband technology,with service speeds
increasing regularly.
17
Why Broadband is Important?
Society, and the global economy, is increasingly digital and online.Government
services, business functions and entertainment optionshave moved online at an
increasing pace, continuing to change theway people work, play and communicate.
The growing demand for fastservice and constant connectivity highlights the need for
fast, reliable,and affordable broadband service.
Connectivity Guidelines and Current Conditions
In 2016, after an extensive review, the Canadian Radio-TelevisionCommission (CRTC)
established a baseline broadband service targetthat Canadians will require to
participate in the digital economy. Thetarget, which applies to residential users in both
rural andurbanareas, benchmarks download speeds of 50 Mbps and upload speedsof
10 Mbps (e.g. 50/10 Mbps), with unlimited usage capacity. Tosupport the achievement
of the target, the CRTC established a fundof $750 million over five years to support
investment in broadbandinfrastructure.
For businesses, government agencies and institutions, broadbandneeds tend to be
higher and generally increase with the size of theorganization. Other factors, such as
the number of computers or otherconnected devices, as wellas the market sector and
the servicesbeing provided, will greatly affect the broadband needs of any given
organization. Given these variances, it is challenging to predict theneeds of any single
business or institution without undertaking moredetailed analysis.
Based on the CRTC baseline target for residential uses and currentindustry standards
for non-residential uses, connectivity guidelineshave been developed by Actional
Intelligence Inc. and augmentedthrough stakeholder feedback. It is recognizedthat
some households,organizations, and areas (such as innovation hubs) may require
higheror lower levels of broadband connectivity, based on their individualneeds. It is
also recognized that County’s municipalpartners maywish to establish their own
targets to address local priorities.
Elgin County’s Current Connectivity Conditions
The existing connectivity conditions in Elgin Countyreflect those ofmany other
jurisdictions in Ontario and Canada. This includes a strong divide in service quality and
service options between urban and ruralareas. In addition, the affordability of
broadband is an issue for certainbusinesses and residents.
18
There are numerous ISPs operating in Elgin Countyincluding larger,established
providers, as well as smaller and more recently establishedcompanies. ISPs may
specialize in certain geographic areas or with aparticular broadband technology. Often,
the level of service and numberof available ISPs is correlated with the location of the
customer.
Overall, Elgin County’s current connectivity conditions can be summarizedas follows:
URBAN AREA
Fasterspeeds, with multiple internet service options.
New broadband technologies, with competitive prices.
New residential developments are generally well served.
Major institutions (post-secondary education, health care,
government) are able to have their needs met.
Some connectivity issues where population densities are lower.
Services generally may meet or exceed the current CRTC baseline target.
RURAL AREAS
Lower speeds, limited internet service options including fewer broadband
technologies and limited internet service providers.
Generally higher prices.
Prevalence of wireless broadband technology and related issues of reliability due
to line of sight obstructions.
Available service generally does not meet the current CRTC baseline target.
Service quality may diminish the further south one travels.
BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT AREAS
Many employment areas and other business locations are not pre-serviced with
adequate broadband infrastructure.
Capital costs to install services can be prohibitive, especially for
smaller businesses.
Downtown areas with older legacy networks face challenges with costly retrofits.
Broadband Priorities
Like many Canadian municipalities, Elgin County’s connectivity is notequally shared.In
the County’s urban areas, ISPs are attempting to keep pace by deploying thelatest
fibre-optic broadband technologies. At the same time, newadvances in wireless mobile
technologies (5G) are continuous. Manyof the County’s residents, businesses and
19
institutions benefit fromthese improvements and can access the level of broadband
service they require.
Service limitations continue to be a challenge within the County’s ruralareas. This
situation is problematic as technological advances willincreasingly require superior
internet connections to access servicesand participate in modern society. Affordability
will remain a challengefor lower-income households, as well as for businesses that
must paythe capital cost to extend suitable services to their building.
Overall, there is a growing concern that broadband service availabilityto parts of Elgin
Countythat are lagging behind other jurisdictions in theprovince will fall further behind if
their needs cannot be met.
These obstacles cannot be solved by any single organization orlevel of government.
Instead, it will take a combined effort by manystakeholders and partners. Elgin County
recognizes the importanceof broadband connectivity and is committed to taking a
proactive andsupportive role in the delivery of broadband throughout the region,in
partnership with other levels of government, ISPs, and other keystakeholders.
“D
ig Once” Policy
The following action couldhelp achievethe County’s broadband priorities:
Often, the highest cost associated withunderground fibre deployment is the expense of
digging up and restoring municipal rights-of-way.This can account for between 60 and
80 per centof the overall cost.
The purpose of a “Dig Once” Policy is to reducethe cost of broadband deployment by
providingfor the placement of conduit (the plastic pipe thathouses fibre-optic cable)
during road constructionprojects, when there is easy access to the utilitytrench. This
allows for conduit to be placed whileminimizing the need and expense of excavation
and restoration. At the desired time, the fibreoptic cable can then be pulled through the
conduitwithout the need for expensive excavation.
The Dig Once conceptwas initially developed for U.S. Federal Road Projects as a
meansto pre-install conduit in large scale projects to facilitate easier access to remote
and ruralcommunities. This approach would ideally reduce private service provider
costs andthereby make lower population areas financially feasible.
There are varying approaches and degrees ofeffort to implementing Dig Once Policy. A
DigOnce Policy may focus on developing a formalprocess to advise ISPs of
construction activities.This option provides ISPs with the opportunity forthe cost-
efficient placement of their own conduitwhile the trench is open. However, this
20
approachalso requires a high degree of alignment betweenmunicipal and ISP staff, as
well as project plansand budgets, which may not always be possible.
Another Dig Once option is for municipalgovernments to place their own conduit during
municipal construction projects. In this approach,the municipality would retain
ownership of theconduit, which can then be used for its owncorporate purposes or as
an asset that is either purchased or leasedfor use by ISPs.
The Chatham-Kent Experience
Based on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’slike experience to date, the second
optionwas found to be most successful for Chatham-Kent who bares the upfront
capital cost, and eliminates the risk of roads and/or boulevards being ripped up
potentially multiple times following a road reconstruction. This model also allows
the Municipality full control of alignment.
in consultation with County municipal partners, to
The Committee may desire for staff,
explore the concept of a region-wide Dig Once consistent approach that includes the
potential for openaccess to Countyconduit.As part of thisexercise the following could
be considered:
The experience and success of Dig Once policies in other jurisdictions.
Whether there is a desire or market interest for ISP access to municipally owned
conduit.
That a technical standard be developed for the location and specifications of
conduit within road rights-of-way that is consistent across the region and area
municipalities.
That any potential security and access issues related to sharing infrastructure
can be addressed, including necessary legal and administrative agreements.
That the condition and age of conduit be tracked as part of the County’s asset
management system.
That the County establish a level of serviceconnectivity guideline.
That the placement of conduit be prioritized to those areas wherecurrent
services do not meet the County’s connectivity guidelines and where demand for
improvement is most pronounced.
That the costs of installation and anticipated return on investment be evaluated.
The relevance of Dig Once given the increase in the use of “trenchless”
technologies such as directional drilling.
That Dig Once can be used in a manner that will not create complications of
added cost due to the placement of conduit next to other infrastructure.
21
An analysis of the likely number of Dig Once projects that could occur, given that
Dig Once depends upon access to the utility trench, which is not typical for many
reconstruction projects.
Counter arguments associated with the County’sinvestment in providing empty
conduitsas part ofroad reconstruction projects are as follows:
Utility infrastructure is installed to meet local area needs as planned by utilities
making it nearly impossible to predict where conduit will be needed in advance.
Each telecom provider has unique design requirements and equipment needs
making conduit requirements difficult to predict. This relates to size, length of run
and ideal termination points.
Major utility upgrades are more effectively installed comprehensively rather than
trying to link to disconnected lengthsof spare conduit.
Technology changes may avoidthe need for conduit in all areas making route
selection very difficult.
Telecom companies are able to support higher density urban areas and
associated installation costs based on revenue potential thereby notneeding to
rely upon Countyprovided conduits.
Generally biennial County road reconstruction projects are usually one to two
kilometres resulting in a very low rate of installation.
The County does currently encouragetheuse of joint trench where possible
during retrofit projects as well as mandated coordination for new subdivisions.
Utilities are consulted during any County road reconstruction project and offered
theopportunity to install any upgraded services.
Further Opportunities
Regional policiesand processes can affect the extent and speed of broadband
deployment by ISPs. Accordingly, review of the following policies and processes should
be undertaken to support broadband network expansion:
1.Development Approvals Process
Similar to the benefits of the Dig Once approach, requirements forbroadband
infrastructure to be included as part of new developmentensures that future occupants
will not be faced with costly anddisruptive retrofits at a later date. There is an
opportunity through thedevelopment approvals process to mandate new developments
tomake provisions for broadband infrastructure.
To maximize competition and service options for future residentsand businesses, all
ISPs should be given the opportunity to installbroadband infrastructure within new
22
developments. The County, in co-operation with local area municipalities, could
consider the useof conditions within subdivision agreements that affords all CRTC
registered telecommunications service providers the opportunity tolocateinfrastructure
in proposed municipal rights-of-way.
To enshrine these requirements, updates to the County Official Planwill also be
required.
2.Planning Policy
As part of the County’s Official Plan Review process, policies will be considered to
support broadbandinfrastructure. This will include the encouragement of co-location of
broadband infrastructure with existing telecommunication facilitieswherever possible,
as well as policies that support broadbandinfrastructure (conduit at a minimum) as part
of new developmentapplications.
3.Permitting Process
The process to obtain consent and permits to occupy municipalrights-of-way can vary
between municipalities and can be difficultto navigate, particularly for new ISPs looking
to deploy broadbandnetworks. To streamline this process and clarify the standard
requirements and conditions, the County coulddevelop a standardizedMunicipal
Access Agreement (MAA). ISPs not registered with CRTC would be required toenter
into a MAA inorder for the Countyto authorize new installations within its rights-of-way.
To create a predictable and uniform approvals environment, the County’smunicipal
partners may wish to adopt a similar standardized MAA,leading to a harmonized
approvals process across the region.Tosupport this initiative, the Countycould make
its standardized MAAtemplate available and share the experience in developing the
template in an effort to ease localmunicipal implementation of thistool.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Noneat this time. Thisreport is for investigative purposes only.
Estimated Costs
Following discussions with several municipal and ISP representatives, the following are
estimated construction and material unit costsin the absence of technical standards,
23
and are subject to change basedon many variables (i.e. road allowance infrastructure
congestion, project limits, terrain, surface features, etc.):
Laying Empty Conduit
Directional Drilling (single conduitup to 100mm)~$65/m
Ploughing (up to 2x50mm dia. conduits) ~$15/m
Open Trenching (up to 2x100mmdia. conduits) ~$40/m
Current ConduitCosts (HDPE SDR 11)
1.5” (38mm) to 4” (100mm) dia.~$3 - $12/m
4 way 18/14 multicell ~$9/m
7way 18/14* multicell~$15/m
*18/14 multicell conduits can handle 288 strand micro fibre trunk cables, whereas 14/10 can
handle up to 216 strand cables)
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:
Serving ElginGrowing ElginInvesting in Elgin
Ensuring alignment ofPlanning for andEnsuring we have the
current programs andfacilitating commercial,necessary tools,
services with communityindustrial, residential,resources, and
need.and agricultural growth.infrastructure to deliver
programs and services
now and in the future.
Exploring differentFostering a healthy
ways of addressingenvironment.
Delivering mandated
community need.
programs and services
Enhancing quality of
efficiently and
Engaging with our
place.
effectively.
community and other
stakeholders.
LOCAL MUNICIPAL PARTNER IMPACT:
None.
24
COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:
None.
CONCLUSION:
Elgin County recognizes the importance of adequatebroadband infrastructure for the
well-being and economiccompetitiveness of the County’s residents, businesses, and
institutions. Through the potential implementation of strategicactionssuch as a “Dig
Once” Policy and/or undertaking a review of various County policies and processes to
support broadband network expansion, may further facilitate increased connectivity
throughout the County.
All of which is Respectfully Submitted
All of which is Respectfully Submitted
Brian Lima
Julie Gonyou
Director of Engineering Services
Chief Administrative Officer
2525
REPORT TO CONNECTIVITY
COMMITTEE
FROM:Julie Gonyou,Chief Administrative Officer
DATE:October 30, 2020
SUBJECT: Local Municipal Partner Connectivity
Question Responses#2
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the report titled “Local Municipal Partner ConnectivityQuestion Responses#2”
from Elgin County’s Chief Administrative Officer dated October 29, 2020 be received
and filed, and,
THAT the Chief Administrative Officer be directed to continue the collection of
information from the remaining Local Municipal Partner and report back to the
Committee at a later date.
INTRODUCTION:
As part of the Connectivity Committee Action Plan, the Chief Administrative Officer was
directed to reach out to Elgin’s seven (7) Local Municipal Partners to gather information
regarding connectivity in their respective municipalities and to report back to the
Committee.
DISCUSSION:
At the Connectivity Committee meeting on October 22, 2020 the Chief Administrative
Officer presented responses to seven (7) internet connectivity related questions as
received from some of Elgin’s Local Municipal Partners. Atthe time Elgin had received
responses from the Township of Southwold, the Municipality of Bayham, the Municipality
of Dutton Dunwich and the Municipality of West Elgin. The collection of this data continued
and the County has now received responses from two (2) additional Local Municipal
Partners. Please see attached a chart compiling the answers received.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
26
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:
Serving ElginGrowing ElginInvesting in Elgin
Ensuring alignment of Planning for and Ensuring we have the
current programs and facilitating commercial, necessary tools,
services with community industrial, residential, resources, and
need.and agriculturalgrowth. infrastructure to deliver
programs and services
now and in the future.
Exploring different Fostering a healthy
ways of addressing environment.
Delivering mandated
community need.
programs and services
Enhancing quality of
efficiently and
Engaging with our
place.
effectively.
community and other
stakeholders.
LOCAL MUNICIPAL PARTNER IMPACT:
None.
COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:
None.
CONCLUSION:
The input of Elgin’s Local Municipal Partners will be crucial to the Committee’s ability to
create a “Made in Elgin” solution for rural broadband access in Elgin. The Chief
Administrative Officer will continue to collect feedback from the remaining Local
Municipal Partner and will present this feedback at a future meeting.
All of which is Respectfully Submitted
Julie Gonyou
Chief Administrative Officer
27
Town of Aylmer Aylmer is serviced by EastLink exclusively for all service.No.
party
-
ddition,
had a few
28
Local Municipal Partner Feedback
–
dband internet service.
Township of Malahide Malahide hasqueries from thirdthe coming months.No.
wireless ISPs. In aMalahide recently received a 3rd party consultant report regarding its Service Delivery Review. One of the recommendations in the report is for Malahide to consider
creating a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) for the purposes of providing broaThe Council will be considering this further in
kind
-
in
Township of Malahide and Town of Aylmer Responses
Are you aware of anyInternet ServiceProviders (ISP) whoare proposing work orwho have completedwork in yourmunicipality? If so,please provide details(e.g. ISP, fibre, Wifi,etc.)Did your
municipalitypartner with the ISPor otherwise providesupport to the ISP?(please detail support as well as anyfinancial support thatyou provided tothem)
1.2.
Connectivity Committee
Question
tial
likely pretty
a question for
.
–
es. The exact
are
Aylmer has full municipal coverage. Occasional complaints about speeds and connections reliable for residenservice but robust needs require a fiber investment with EastLinkFiber is available
in town at least in placlocations EastLink.No. Mainly available so not likely as problematic as for other areas in Elgin County.
-
past to
29
the
and there have been
.
,
Nothing other than SWIFT maps.Yesmotions in Council to encourage other ISPs to the come into the areaNo. No.Essentially any where there is no reliable or decent highspeed internet access.
out
If so,
to broadband
Do you have a mapthat indicatescoverage area(s)?Have you receivedany complaints fromresidents abconnectivity and whatare the nature ofthose complaints?Has your municipalitytaken steps
to lay theground work (i.e.conduit) for fibreduring roadreconstructionprojects?where?Are you aware of anybusinessdevelopmentinitiatives that havefailed as the result oflack of broadbandinternet
access?What are the highpriority areas withinyour municipality foraccess internet access?
3.4.5.6.7.
REPORT TO CONNECTIVITY
COMMITTEE
FROM:Jim Bundschuh,Director of Financial
Services
Alan Smith, General Manager, Economic
Development
DATE:November 5,2020
SUBJECT:Government Outreach
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT theNovember 5, 2020,report titled, Government Outreach,submitted by the
Director of Financial Servicesand theGeneral Manager of Economic Development, be
received and filed for information.
INTRODUCTION:
Elgin’s goal to improve broadband connectivity across the County will benefit from the
knowledge and resources available at other levels of government and business
networks.This report summarizes the findings to date of outreach to a variety of
organizations.
DISCUSSION:
Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB)
The Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) has a vested interest in connectivity
of its students. This need has been amplified in the spring as a result of the pandemic
whenTVDSB delivered their curriculum over the internet. They are aware of the
following County areas that have experienced very limited/poor cellar-based LTE
coverage:
Springfield
Vienna
Port Stanley
30
Port Burwell
Eden
Brownsville
Iona Station
Further field testing would need to be conducted to delineate the specific boundaries of
these areas – where due to topography, natural/human-made obstructions and/or
limited cell tower coverage – broadband connectivity can be reduced to 1 Mbps or less.
Speeds and bandwidth as low as this create significant challenges for remote learning
from both a synchronous and asynchronous perspective - with limited or no alternate
broadband options for students and staff to leverage in these areas. In some instances,
TVDSBhave had to deploy paper copies of learning materials to students/families
frustrated with the lack of adequate LTE internet services at their homes. Elgin County
IT staff set up TVDSB SSIDs (network name) on Elgin’s library Wi-Fi routers to allow
students experiencing difficulties to connect to the internet at our libraries. Obviously,
this wasa stop-gap measure that does not replace the need to have high-speed
affordable internet in every student’s home. County staff will continue to stay connected
with staff at TVDSB as the Steering Committee and County Council work to achieving
50/10 connectivity.
Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA)
An outreach to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs resulted in
introductions being made with the Broadband Development and Digital Connectivity
Branch,Ministry of Infrastructure. They rely on the coverage information from
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
(https://www.ic.gc.ca/app/sitt/bbmap/hm.html?lang=eng). They also pointedout that
SWIFT has very detailedinformation on areas that have 50 mbps download 10 mbps
upload speeds. The SWIFT maps have previously been presented by Barry Fieldand
the data from this map has been added to the County’s GIS system.A request has
been made that an expert from the Broadband Development and Digital Connectivity
Branchbe a presenter at our upcoming broadband forum. This will be an important
step in developing a working relationship between the Steering Committee and this vital
branch of provincial government.
Infrastructure Ontario (IO)
Infrastructure Ontario(IO)could be used as a source of funding for any investments that
Elginmakes directly in broadband infrastructure. For instance, if the County were to lay
conduit along its roadways during major road works, debentures could be procured
through IO to fund this investment. Given fibre’s long life cycles, it would make sense to
fund such an investment with long-term debt. Debentures with 30-year terms can
currently be obtained for rates of approximately 2.3%. With such favourable rates, a
31
business case could likely be made to install conduit to attractISP investment in fibre
and related hardware. Conduit space could be rented to the ISP to recoverthe costs of
the debenture annual payments, but some funding from Elgin’s taxes will likely still be
requiredto fully cover the cost of annual debenture payments.
As an alternative to Elgin attracting ISPs through Elgin investing directly in conduit,
Elgin could attractISPs through providing grants, over and above grants provided by
federal and provincial governments. IO would not provide debentures for providing
granting, norwould IO provide debentures to fund ISP investments. Despite this, IO
debentures could indirectly be used to provide Elgin with the neededcashflow to be
able to fund grants. The County plans on investing approximately $200 million in capital
projects over the next ten years. Some of these projects, that were previously planned
to be funded directly by tax revenues, could instead be funded by debentures, thereby
freeing up cash to fund grants. Obviously,any investment in broadband, either through
conduit installation or grants to ISPs, will still need to be funded by tax revenue;
however, debentures allow tax revenue to be generated over multiple years (i.e. 30
years through long-term debentures) rather than a large tax increase up front.
Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB)
An alternative to IO debentures taken on by the Countyis ISPs taking onaffordable
debt through the Canada Infrastructure Bank(CIB). CIBattracts and co-invests with
private sector and institutional investors in new, revenue-generating infrastructure
projects that are in the public interest. Theirpriority areas includeenhanced broadband
infrastructure.The CIB has three main functions as a centre of expertise: advisory,
investments, and knowledge and research.The advisory function supports
governments in assessing the suitability of potential projects, and will foster awareness
and education about innovative financing models.The investment function structures
proposals, undertakes due diligence, manages risk transfer, negotiates agreements and
supports project delivery as appropriate.The knowledge and research function will
report on relevant data to improve analysis and inform investment decision-making.
Bringing in private capital to infrastructure funding will allow more projects to be built
than with public funds alone. Many domestic and international investors are looking to
increased participation in infrastructure to build their long-term portfolios.This new
model is focused on transferring risk to the parties best able to manage it and on
building partnerships that address infrastructure needs with new and innovative
solutions.The CIB model encourages innovation and efficiency in meeting
infrastructure needs by partnering with the private sector. With their funds at risk,
investors will get creative in planning and designing projects to respond to the needs of
users and will consider upfront the best way to manage the infrastructure asset during
its entire lifespan.The CIB model is aimed at mobilizing and leveraging private sector
and institutional investment, both domestic and international, and attaching the financial
32
returns to the risks of infrastructure projects. To crowd-in private sector and institutional
investment, federal support may be provided at below-market rates or on a
subordinated basis.Elgin has submitted an inquiry into CIB and is awaiting a response.
If needed, MP Karen Vecchio’s office will be contacted to facilitatemaking contact.
Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) will be
awarding $750 million over five yearswith the second call for funding now closed.
CRTC states that Canadian residential and business fixed broadband internet access
service subscribers should be able to access speeds of at least 50 megabits per
second (Mbps) download and 10 Mbps upload, and to subscribe to a service offering
with an unlimited data allowance.They will support:
Transport projectsproviding broadband internet transport network capacity to
one or more interconnection points
Access projectsprovidingfixed broadband internet access network infrastructure
to connect communities to an interconnection point on the transport network
Mobile wireless projectsproviding mobile wireless network to communities
and/or along major transportation roads
The Universal Broadband Fund is Innovation, Science and Economic Development
Canada (ISED)’s new program and is currently under developmentand will be another
It willdeliver up to $6 billion in investments in rural
source of funding available.
broadband over the next 10 years.
St. Thomas District Chamber of Commerce
To gain a perspective on connectivity from the business community, the St. Thomas
and District Chamber of Commerce and the Aylmer and Area Chamber of Commence
were both approached. According to the St. Thomas Chamber, businesses in parts of
Central Elgin and Southwold have connectivity issues compared with those located in
the City of St. Thomas. Some of these businesses in more remote locations depend on
cell signals, which can be weak. Therefore, advocatingfor our cell carriers to increase
their signalstrengthwas a suggested option.The Chamber stressed that highspeed
internet is a need not a want.The St. Thomas Chamber is also surveying their
membership in order to obtain more detailed information on connectivity challenges
than was providedfor thecontext of this report. Survey results will be shared.
It should also be noted at the most recent Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s AGM, the
following recommendations were passedwith 97% support by nearly 200 Chambers
across the country, including St. Thomas:
33
“THATthe Government of Canada: 1. Work with municipal, provincial and territorial
governments and agencies to deliver broadband funding that will help maximize capital
for broader internet access. 2. Launch the new Universal Broadband Fund quickly to
expand broadband access to struggling communities so that they are well positioned for
economic recovery. 3. Include remote and rural experts and stakeholders in national
discussions and when evaluating federal programs and policies.”
Aylmer and Area Chamber of Commerce
The Aylmer and Area Chamber of Commerce have been contacted; however, a
response has not yet been received.Outreach efforts will continue.
Southwestern Public Health (SWPH)
Staff contacted Southwestern Public Health who had their Epidemiologists investigate
as to whether any data had been collected by the organization about access to internet,
internet connectivity or broadband internet. At this time SWPH has not collected any
data about these issues but is willing to forward any information to the County of Elgin if
research is ever done in any of these areas.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
Attracting ISPs to invest in 50/10 connectivity across the County will likely need Elgin
tax funding to supplement grants from federal and provincial sources. Given the
longevity/scalability of fibre technology, debt financing can be utilized to reduce the
immediate impact on taxes. Additionally, as the Steering Committee develops a
broadband business plan, the financial impact of not investing in connectivity should
also be factored in. If Elgin falls behind technologically, economic stagnation may
result, leading to taxation pressures greater than the tax pressures resulting froman
investment in connectivity.
34
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:
Serving ElginGrowing ElginInvesting in Elgin
Ensuring alignment of Planning for and Ensuring we have the
current programs and facilitating commercial, necessary tools,
services with community industrial, residential, resources, and
need.and agricultural growth. infrastructure to deliver
programs and services
now and in the future.
Exploring different Fostering a healthy
ways of addressing environment.
Delivering mandated
community need.
programs and services
Enhancing quality of
efficiently and
Engaging with our
place.
effectively.
community and other
stakeholders.
Additional Comments:
LOCAL MUNICIPAL PARTNER IMPACT:
None.
COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:
None.
CONCLUSION:
Continuing to build relationships with partners throughout government and business
networks will be critical to achieving optimal solutions in expanding broadband coverage
across Elgin. These partners can bring expertise and funding that will enable Elgin to
develop a “Made in Elgin” solution that dramatically improves connectivity service at
minimal cost to rate payers.
35
All of which is Respectfully Submitted Approved for Submission
Julie Gonyou
Jim Bundschuh
Chief Administrative Officer
Director of Financial Services
Alan Smith
General Manager, Economic
Development
36
REPORT TO COUNTY COUNCIL
FROM:Councillor Giguère
Megan Shannon, Legislative Services
Coordinator
DATE:October 30, 2020
SUBJECT:Elgin County Connectivity Committee:
Municipal Broadband Master Class
Summary
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT the October 30, 2020 report titled Elgin County Connectivity Committee:
Municipal Broadband Master Class Summary submitted by Councillor Giguère and the
Legislative ServicesCoordinator, be received and filed for information.
INTRODUCTION:
The purpose of this report is to provideadetailed summary ofthe Municipal Broadband
Master Class led by Jesse Hirsh held on October 21, 2020.
DISCUSSION:
On October 21, 2020,Municipal World hosted a MunicipalBroadband Master Class with
Jesse Hirsh. Jesse Hirsh is an Internet professional with 25 years experience in
research, writing, and public speaking. The Master Class was designed to address
potential solutions to the unstable internet that continues to bea challenge for many
rural and remote communities.
What makes an Internet Service Provider(ISP)?
Jesse explained that the Internet is a learning curve. The Internet should not just be
seen as a technical aspect, but also a social one.It is the way in which our communities
connect with one another. The basic definitionof an ISPis buying bandwidth wholesale
and reselling it to customers. Margins for ISPs are high after theyhave paid for the
37
initial infrastructureinstallation. Jesse compared it to dealing crack because customers
come to depend on the service and generally always want more data.
Example:
A municipality could create its own Facebook-like application to provide two-way
communication with its citizens.
Different Kinds of Connectivity
Fibre
Wireless
Satellite
Hybrid
Mesh
Fibre:
Thistype ofconnectivity is mostcommonlyused. It will always be the fastest
because it travels at light speed.
Wireless & Satellite:
Response times for wireless and satellite are generally poor.
Even Low Orbit Satellite will still have latency due to the distance the signal has
to travel.
Hybrid:
Combination of fibreand wireless.
Example: UBIQUITI Networks. It is part of a wireless ISP movement.
Makes inexpensive and easy to use wireless equipment.
It canalso solve some ‘last mile’ issues if customers can have a fibre optic
network with wirelessgoingto the door.
Mesh:
Neighbourhood Connection (Quill Connection).
Creates software and incentives.
Jesse highlighted that ourlong-term investment shouldfocus on fibre optic connection.
This is because the speeds of fibre optic connection will increase overtime.
Why Municipal?
Municipalities play an important role in recognizing the Internet as infrastructure, but
also in providing the economic and social support of offering it. Municipalities make the
38
difference of acknowledging the Internet as critical infrastructure. Municipalities are also
close to their citizens. That means that theycan be cheerleaders and mobilizersof
ISPs, orif they have the courage,they can create their own ISPs based on the needs of
their citizens.
City vs. Country:
There is a difference in literacybetween the cityand country. This includes municipal
staff being aware of the need and potential of Internet as a required infrastructure. The
global pandemic has made that point clear as more and more of us require Internet for
work and school.
Examples:
B4RN. Offers Peer-to-peer tech support (E.g.,Local champions, volunteers, etc.)
Citizen driven and operated like a volunteer fire department with volunteer tech
support.Because it requires citizen buy-in you can get around some issues like
cutting across a field since the farmer whoowns the fieldwill directly benefit from
the service.
Guifi-net. Offered in northeastern Spain. Open, free and neutral wireless and
fibre optic network.
Opportunities exist for more research into these examples.
Economic and Social Development
Jesse referredto Ashleigh Weeden’s articleon Rural Economic Developmentfrom
Municipal World.Highspeed internet results in different economic payoffs. Access to
highspeed internet reverses brain drain as more people are able to work from home and
seek pleasant (and cheaper) country settings to set up their home offices.Aging
demographics who have come to depend on the internet for lifestyle and medical
supportcan remain in the countryside.Weeden says debt financing is worth it in the
long run for the above reasons.
Advocacy
Commercial ISPs are not responsive to community development. They get away with
continuingto provide poor service without consequence because the CRTC only works
on a complaint’sbasis. Service maps show blanket coverage for high-speed internet,
but in reality, this is inaccurate. Municipalities could facilitate complaints to CRTC who
tend to respond to large numbers of complaints.Court of Public Opinion rather than
RFPs. When needing service, have a town hall where ISPs have to compete in public
and answer to their customers.
Jesse is a champion of municipalities becoming their own ISPs.
39
Range of Potential Policies and Solutions
How can municipalities play a role in municipal broadband?
1.Literacy & Advocacy (Learning Curve) (Foundation)
Help residents and businesses understand their options
Advocate on their behalf to secure providers and/or funding
Identify if zoning, road usage, pole access, can play in role in improving access?
Friendly Municipal Access Agreements(Becoming ISP Friendly)
Does your municipality have accessto railroad infrastructure?
Are there local champions or people who could help?Municipal staff must
understand internet in order for residents and business to.(Echo knowledge)
Jesse highly advocatesfor municipalities to play a key part in literacy and advocacy
efforts.
2.Property taxes and collective bargaining(Organizing) (Subsidizing)
Helping residents pay for installation and set-up via their property taxes
Amortize these costs over one, two, or three decades
Help residents and business come together to pay for installation costs or service
provision from existing ISPs
Help incentivize existing ISPs to provide better services
Example of Olds Alberta, O-Net & Kaslo infoNet(This is an opportunity for more
in-depth research).
3.Infrastructure and internal usage(More responsive)
Invest in creating Internet infrastructure primarily for internal municipal usage
Excess infrastructure can be used for additional purposesfor example allowing
external ISPs or business to use it.
It could also be used forconnecting libraries, schools, and other municipal
agencies and buildings.
The primary benefit is lowering of telecom costs and enabling of smart
infrastructure and programs.
This does not necessarily address remote work capabilitiesas infrastructure
would be located at municipal facilities.
Example of QNet in Coquitlam BC (Oldest)(This is an opportunity for more in-
depth research).
York Region in Ontario (Recent)
Olds Alberta (Using a co-op model)
40
It is a cheaper option to create your own fibre optic network than to pay the ISP
to do it. Make sure to use low cost fibre. Some Quebec municipalities lay cable
on the side of the road.
SWIFT and EORN.Jesse criticizes that these examples don’t always address
the internet connection needs of local municipalities. They are a potential first
step and return on investment. He mentions that EORN focuses too much on
wireless instead of fibre. Fibre has a longer lifespan than wireless technology.
In addition, local municipalities know and understand their geography. Just as
municipal drains were created because locals knew and could map the territory
accurately.
4.Enabling competitive services
Building complete end-to-end FTTH (fibre-to-the-home) infrastructurebut
allowing others to provide services over it. (E.g., Sell excess capacity to
commercial ISPs)
Example of Ammon Idaho where it is possible to get super high-speed internet
for $10/month. Residents are able to access fast fibre optic internet at an
affordable cost.Municipalities wouldn’t have to deal with customer service
support. They would be providing network services over the original
infrastructure.
Additional Example:The Town of Vermilion has activated its own hybrid internet
service called V-net.(This is an opportunity for more in-depth research).
5.Full Service Provision
Municipality as telecom and ISP
Extension of Public Works?
Can be financed by municipality, grants, or public-private-partnership (P3)
Fairlawn Ohio is P3 example. Jesse referred this as an ISP out of a box.
Expanding the ISP was based on resident demand.
Chattanooga, TN is a celebrated example of Energy Power Board (EPB)
extension.This is also known as “GIG City”.
Also Thunder Bay and Muskoka (Lakeland Networks) (Expanding through
communities throughout)
Jesse explains that U.S. telecom-providers have lobbied state legislators to make
municipal internet legal in the past. This would keep costs low and generate potential
revenues for municipalities. This led to jurisdictional battles,but Jesse pointsout that
through public opinion the big providers can be shamed if they are being seen as
obstructing the public good.
41
Jesse also advocates the “ask for forgiveness model” especially in the world of the
internet where it is common with groups like Uber. So run fibrefirst then work out the
rules and agreements.
An important question to ask is:
Where is the balance point between affordability and profitability for the local
government as the ISP? How much subsidization is needed up front to build and how
long until return on investment?
Developing Expertise (Internal and Community)
How do we do it?
Who within your municipality understands telecommunications and the internet?
The more who do understand, the better the ability for the municipality to adapt
moving forward. Jesse suggested conducting a social media audit. Municipalities
need to become business internet savvy.
Same logic applies to the community at large.
What is your strategy to increase literacy? Jesse suggest developing a municipal
internet task force.This should be ongoing.EnsureEconomic Development/IT
are involved.
It is important that anaction committee stay in place not only for setting up a
network, but for maximizing its use for economic growth of the community.
Example:
Municipalities working with a local community group who has created their own
ISP.
Note:
ROMA is putting together a resource guide for Municipal Officials. It will be ready
in the coming weeks.
Privacy and Data Protection
Advantage:Puts a municipality in a better position to better foster security practices.
Providing defaults that protect their resident’s privacy.
Opportunity:Use expertise to both protect the privacy of their residents and private
security practices.
Municipalities could provide free software with similar types of secure services.VPN
software hides customer location and details. If people are weary of ‘the government’
running their ISP this software could be provided to ensure anonymity.These are
42
important issues moving forward and are part of a rubric of municipal internet that
enables or allows usage.
Future Considerations
The internet waits for nobody. The global pandemic has accelerated this and has
put more pressure on us as municipalities to update and address these issues.
Acknowledging the rapid rate of technological change
Smart cities and responsive infrastructure
Working and learning from home as a feature post pandemic.Municipalities
should be anticipatingthis type of infrastructure moving forward.Uploading
speeds make a difference. Jesse explains that commercial providers have not
been providing this.
Notes from Zoom Chat:
Fort Erie created a residential internet survey and a business internet survey and then
put the results in an esri map and shared it with local ISPs. Put out posters at our
libraries, a place where we figured the ‘internet-less’ would go to connect to let people
know about the survey.
Private ISPs should be criticizedfor their mapping claims. They should be made to
create actual maps that report actual speeds they are providing in ruralareas. They
have this data but they will not provide it.
Some people are advocating that urban users who benefit from stable high-speed
internet be charges a surtax to assist in building the rural infrastructure.
Dig once policy. Even before a full network is in place, take advantage of all municipal
works projects to include fibreoptic cable.
While this is urgent,we all must have patience since it is a long-term issue.
Follow-Up Actions:
Identify local expertise
Identify nearby infrastructure
Invest in literacy, via internal and public education
Connect with provincial andfederal representatives
Propose and build a broadband strategy (Determine costs)
Plan and expand internet infrastructure
Jesse explains that Internet Forums are a good methodfor local municipalities and
companies to share knowledge and activity.
43
Note: Municipal World is forming a LinkedIngroup to keep the conversation going.
Additional MunicipalExamples:
Town of Caledon has introduced an internet levy.
Councillor from the Town of The Blue Mountains, Rob Potter, is working on the
Rabbit network in his town,which is faster than SWIFT.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
None.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PRIORITIES:
Serving ElginGrowing ElginInvesting in Elgin
Ensuring alignment ofPlanning for andEnsuring we have the
current programs andfacilitating commercial,necessary tools,
services with communityindustrial, residential,resources, and
need.and agricultural growth.infrastructure to deliver
programs and services
now and in the future.
Exploring differentFostering a healthy
ways of addressingenvironment.
Delivering mandated
community need.
programs and services
Enhancing quality of
efficiently and
Engaging with our
place.
effectively.
community and other
stakeholders.
LOCAL MUNICIPAL PARTNER IMPACT:
None.
COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:
None.
CONCLUSION:
44
In conclusion, the Municipal Broadband Master Classallowed attendees to gain a fresh
perspective oninternet connectivity.Attendees were able to identify solutions of how to
bring high-speed internet totheir communities.The workshop and networking event will
contribute further to our exploration of addressingour community internet needs.
All of which is respectfully submitted by
Councillor Giguère
Megan Shannon, Legislative Services Coordinator
45