GNV commission to revisit $9.6M broadband plan

Broadband concept
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The Gainesville City Commission will discuss the next steps for its $9.6 million broadband initiative at its regular meeting on Thursday.

Gainesville hired Magellan Advisors to study different broadband options, and the company reported to the commission in January and February. The company presented three different models: amenity, business and partnership. 

In March, the commission voted for Magellan to work with Gainesville Regional Utilities on the business model that would pit the city against private telecommunications companies like COX and AT&T. 

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The motion in March focused the city’s attention to a priority area and funded the effort with $9.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. If it goes well, then the commission can decide to take the plan citywide. 

On Thursday, Magellan will present on the business model and staff will cover financial and legal ramifications along with risk mitigation perspectives. 

The commission will also discuss launching its street performers pilot program this summer. So far, the project has budgeted $25,000. The funds would help pay performers downtown. The city reported receiving 61 applications in two weeks. 

Another item up for discussion is a Historic Home Stabilization Program. The program offers financial assistance to homes in the Fifth Avenue, Porters Quarters, Pleasant Street, and Springhill neighborhoods.

Applicants have to enter a 10-year, 0% interest due-on-sale forgivable mortgage for the program for the total amount received, and the city will give priority to applications that address health and safety concerns.  

On the consent agenda, the city will approve the sale of around 6.7 acres near the Airport Industrial Park to SiVance, LLC, who already operates adjacent to the park. The sale will cost $215,000.

The Gainesville commission approved a study of the airport corridor in April to investigate ways to expand the industrial park which is running out of space.

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