Expert on public Internet utilities to speak Thursday in Decorah

Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities Internet expert Curtis Dean will visit Decorah on Thursday to answer questions about options for improving Internet service in the community.

Dean's experience with broadband began in 1997 when he helped lead a successful effort to pass a referendum to establish a municipal broadband utility in Spencer.  Now he works for the Iowa Association of Municpal Utilities and formally provides expertise and advice to communities looking to create, enhance, and manage their local public utilities.

Dean is currently working with the Decorah Metronet Board on a feasibility study, due in July, that will provide insight into what expanding the existing Metronet fiber network would look like in Decorah and Winneshiek County.

The public will have a chance to hear from Curtis Dean at 5:15 p.m. Thursday at the City Hall Council chambers.  Dean will discuss the benefits to individuals, businesses, and area economic development from the creation of a public communications utility in Decorah and will then answer any questions.