Executive Board Session (Commissioner Wessell’s Email – Broadband Accomplishments, 3/11/2025)
Event Date: 2025-03-11
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**Executive Summary**
**Overview**
This document serves as a response to Commissioner Campbell’s inquiries regarding the Leelanau County broadband initiative, particularly in response to misconceptions raised during a recent Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting. Ty Wessell outlines key differences between the broadband projects in Leelanau and Benzie Counties, correcting misinformation and clarifying the processes involved in the successful implementation of their broadband strategies.
**Project Comparisons**
Wessell emphasizes that comparing the two counties’ broadband projects is erroneous and presents specific data to refute claims made about cost and project timelines. For instance, the total cost of the Benzie County project is projected to be $10.55 million, significantly higher than initially stated. In contrast, Leelanau County’s residents benefited from lower hookup fees and a robust financial model proposed by Point Broadband, showcasing an investment of $12 million from the company alongside an additional $5 million request from the county. The document provides a detailed timeline of interactions with service providers, illustrating Leelanau’s proactive approach in securing broadband access for its residents.
**Role of Technical Oversight**
Wessell also addresses Commissioner Campbell’s remarks regarding DCS Technology Design, clarifying the critical role that Chris Scharrer plays in overseeing the construction and ensuring compliance with project specifications. DCS’s expertise is highlighted as instrumental in coordinating between various stakeholders, tracking project progress, and resolving any arising issues, thereby validating the commitment of Leelanau County to deliver a high-quality fiber network to its constituents.
**Conclusion**
In closing, Wessell appreciates the opportunity to clarify these points and emphasizes the need for a thorough review of the established records regarding the broadband initiative. He invites stakeholders to explore the extensive documentation available on the county’s website, thus ensuring transparency and fostering continued dialogue about the project’s successful trajectory.
Broadband Initiative
Lifeline Program
Benzie Project Updates
Benzie County Dedicated Page
Benzie County Website