Two utilities join to offer broadband in rural areas

The Nuckolls County Board of Commissioners met at the Nuckolls County courthouse in Nelson, Monday. All three board members were present.

The board, on the advice of Jeff Wagner, county highway superintendent, did not accept the lone bid submitted for bridge replacement project C-65 (716). The project is located southwest of Nelson. It will replace a bridge with three steel tube culverts. Wagner reccommended the highway department bundle the project with another one in the spring. The hope is steel prices will have lowered.

The board heard a presentation from representatives of South Central Public Power District, the South Central Economic Development Council and Glenwood as to installing access to county-wide broadband. It was emphasized that broadband was no longer a luxury but a necessity.

Rural areas are left out of the economic loop with the lack of broadband. Many students now learn remotely from kindergarten through post-graduate degrees. Work from home options are more plentiful. Modern farming has a heavy reliance on computers and communicating with equipment can be vital. Sub-standard internet is a major hinderance to rural development. SCPPD and Glenwood look to form a partnership to offer broadband access to every resident in rural Nuckolls County. The power district proposes to string the fiber optic line from its poles. Glenwood will lease the lines and provide the backbone equipment required to provide internet access.

The entities requested the board consider issuing a memorandum of understanding outlining their support for the project. The two partners are looking to grants from various sources, including the federal government, to fund the improvement. Glenwood stated it was not a profit making endeavor as it would require a 20 year time frame to recoup its investment.

Kylie Kinley, from the Nuckolls County Extension Office, introduced Megan Burda to the board. Burda has been serving as the Engagement Zone 10 Coordinator for the Nebraska Extension. Previously, the state was divided into four sectors. A realignment has expanded that into 11 zones. It enables the extension offices to more effectively serve their constituents as resources are not spread across as many counties.

The board approved a resolution expressing their opposition to the proposed 30 x 30 plan. They espoused solidarity with Gov. Pete Ricketts ‘opposition to the plan.

The board approved special designated liquor licenses to Superior Estates Winery and Elk Creek Country Club for various events being held at those venues.

The courthouse and county offices are closed Monday for the observance of Columbus Day. Offices will reopen Tuesday.

The board will meet at 8:30 a.m., Monday, Oct. 18.