Local group interested in expanded Internet service

A group of just over a dozen Decorah residents gathered Wednesday afternoon at Java John's to discuss opportunities regarding the new Metronet, Decorah's fiber-optic connectivity project.

Former South Winneshiek Superintendent Dick Jansen, who convened the meeting, said he thought the Metronet creates the opportunity for a municipal utility that would provide less expensive Internet service to more people and would also keep money in the community.

Three members of the Metornet board also attended the meeting.  They said completion of the Metronet is still 12 months away.  However, at this point they said they have no plans to create a public utility.  Instead the board has discussed leasing fibers in the network.  One private Internet provider has already contacted the Metronet Board about leasing fiber strands.

Jansen also discussed the possibility of providing free Wi-Fi access within downtown Decorah, saying it would make Decorah an even more attractive place than it already is from both a public and a business perspective. 

Other group members discussed the impact of improved Internet access on Decorah's community sustainability, cultural attractiveness and economic viability.