A major focal point of the meeting was the council’s decision to authorize a fiber use agreement with Hometown Fiber LLC. This initiative is part of a broader municipal broadband project designed to provide residents with more reliable internet service. The proposal involves a significant investment, estimated at $162,800, to establish a city-operated broadband network. The decision was not made lightly, as council members deliberated over the potential economic benefits against the financial risks and public concerns.

Community members voiced varied opinions on the project. Some feared that the municipal broadband could lead to increased property taxes and questioned the use of taxpayer money to fund an endeavor that might compete with private internet providers. One resident cited a previous estimate for the fiber project at $9.4 million, raising concerns about the financial burden on the city. In contrast, proponents argued that the project could spur economic growth, improve property values, and offer high-quality service that bridges the digital divide in underserved areas. The council acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the need for careful oversight and strategic planning to ensure the project’s success.

The contract with Hometown Fiber LLC includes provisions for a phased buildout, which aims to minimize risks by allowing for periodic assessments and adjustments. The council’s decision also entails the establishment of a Broadband Commission to oversee the project and provide a communication bridge between the city council and the project team. This body will play a role in ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the project’s implementation.

In addition to broadband discussions, the council tackled the establishment of a gas franchise fee ordinance. This ordinance introduces a new fee structure for gas services provided by CenterPoint Energy. The approved fees vary based on customer class, with residential rates set at $5 and commercial rates ranging from $10 to $90. The council engaged in discussions about the financial implications and the potential impact on residents, particularly those in apartment complexes. Concerns were raised about how the fees would be structured and the possibility of landlords passing on these costs to tenants.

Discussions emphasized the importance of balancing necessary revenue generation with the financial impact on residents, with comparisons to franchise fees in other Minnesota municipalities guiding the council’s decision-making process.

Bradley Peterson from the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities provided an update on legislative priorities and challenges facing local governments. With a focus on local government aid, property taxes, and economic development, Peterson outlined the coalition’s efforts to address the funding shortfall for rural ambulance services and the complications arising from recent legislative changes. He highlighted the need for a bonding bill to support infrastructure projects, noting the political hurdles that have impeded progress.

Peterson also addressed housing and zoning concerns, sharing insights from previous legislative sessions that allocated significant funding to housing initiatives. The coalition’s advocacy efforts aim to ensure that local governments retain control over zoning decisions, countering proposals that could mandate changes without community input. These updates underscore the ongoing challenges faced by cities like Willmar in navigating legislative landscapes while advocating for local needs.

The meeting concluded with the council considering a professional services agreement with Bolton and Menk for the civil engineering phase of the broadband project. The agreement addresses costs incurred and outlines future work, with council members expressing the need for further information before approving additional expenses. Ultimately, the decision was tabled to allow for more review and discussion in upcoming meetings.