When will local businesses and individuals benefit from MetroNet?

decorahnews.com reader Bryan e-mails us about the new fiber optic cable network that will link city, county, school, hospital and Luther College facilities: "Consultants say this venture will make Decorah the most "fiber rich community" in the state, and local officials add that it makes Decorah more attractive to businesses and agencies.

Wondering at what point this 28E agreement will allow for Decorah to be more "attractive to businesses"?  It's my understanding that a 28E is for non-profits/governmental only--right?  Will local business be able to "buy in" or will we all be at the mercy of the cable/phone companies after they "buy in"?

Mr. Answer Person says: You are right that the MetroNet system will only be used by non-profit groups and governmental agencies for now.  But the committee in charge of the fiber optic system have all along intended that parts of it be used by local businesses and individuals.

How that would happen is still up in the air.  Basically, the MetroNet group faces two choices: 1) Set up its own utility to offer fiber optic network access to businesses and individuals.  That would mean the public would not "be at the mercy of the cable/phone companies," but it would require a big investment of tax dollars to start--with no guarantee that the money would later be recouped.  2) Reach agreements with cable/phone companies like Mediacom, QWest and NEIT to lease space on the fiber optic network.  There will be at least 72 fiber optic strands in the network--and possible 96 strands--so there will be plenty of additional space available.  Of course, the cable/phone companies would have to charge a high enough fee to pay back the money they'll pay MetroNet, so whether the higher speed of fiber optic access will be worth the higher cost is a decision each business and individual would have to make for themselves.