A special meeting of the Council for the City of Crystal Falls was held in the Council Chamber of the City Hall on Wednesday, April 25, 2001 at 9:30 a.m. Central Time.

Present: Mayor Cram, Councilors Hendrickson, and Lind.

Absent: Councilors Nylund and Benda

Also present were City Attorney, City Manager and City Clerk.

The purpose of this special meeting was hear a presentation from Baraga Telephone Co. and to consider the granting of a non-exclusive franchise for the development of high speed internet access and a local dial tone in the city.

Mayor Cram opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Dan Goodreau, representing Baraga Telephone Company, informed the Council of their desire to bring a broadband line through the City of Crystal Falls to provide high speed internet access to business’ and residents alike. He noted that Baraga Telephone is not considered a public utility and therefore a non-exclusive franchise would not apply to them. They were merely approaching the City Council with a request to rent and attach their lines to the city owned utility poles for access throughout the community.

Mr. Goodreau explained how broadband improves internet access by providing dedicated, instant connections and e-mail. He said some business transactions require this type of connection to be competitive in today’s high-tech society. Several businessmen in the room agreed with Mr. Goodreau and noted they would not hesitate to hook up to this type of system. It was also noted that this would be a huge incentive to bring in new business to the Crystal Falls area.

Chief Electrician Angelo Diqui and Assistant David Graff asked questions of the Baraga Telephone representatives regarding the use of the poles. Mr. Goodreau advised they would first conduct an engineering survey of the poles to determine if any needed to be replaced. If replacement becomes necessary they would pay the city to do so. They will also conduct a marketing survey of the business’ and residents to determine interest. Mr. Diqui advised the City Council and Baraga Telephone that his work crews already have a full slate of projects for the summer and should pole replacement become necessary, he was not sure when they could do the work. Mr. Goodreau understood and indicated they would strive to coordinate the project to fit the electric department’s schedule.

Councilor Lind, supported by Councilor Hendrickson moved to grant Baraga Telephone Company permission to rent space on the city owned utility poles to hang cable for the improved internet access.

Motion carried.

There being no further business on the agenda for this special meeting, meeting adjourned at 10:00 a.m.