Southwick Considers $15 Million Investment in Town-Owned Fiber Optic Network
SOUTHWICK – In an ambitious move to enhance community connectivity, the High Speed Internet Committee has approached the Select Board with a proposal for a $15 million borrowing authorization to establish a town-owned fiber optic cable network. This proposal will be added to the Annual Town Meeting warrant, and to assess community interest, a survey has been released.
Select Board member Doug Moglin emphasized the importance of public feedback during the board’s recent meeting. "We were charged to send out a survey to gauge interest and support for our own municipal internet fiber project," Moglin stated, underscoring the community-centric approach guiding this initiative.
While the proposed funding is considerable, Moglin clarified the High-Speed Internet Committee’s strategy, explaining that the entire construction cost would not be borrowed all at once. “The HSIC’s position is to put the entire construction cost on the floor of Town Meeting. Not to borrow it all at once, but to have the ability to fund the complete project as costs are incurred,” he wrote in an email after the meeting. Moglin further articulated the vision: "The only way this service covers its costs and debt service is if we build out the entire infrastructure, as is being done in other communities."
This significant town initiative invites reflection on the lessons of stewardship and communal responsibility found in Christian teachings. Much like the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where each servant was entrusted with resources to manage wisely, the committee’s careful planning for the town’s investment embodies a proactive approach to leveraging resources for the common good.
Just as Jesus taught the importance of community and unity, the High Speed Internet project seeks to bring residents together, empowering them with enhanced communication and access to information. This endeavor can help bridge gaps in connectivity, bringing about a spirit of inclusiveness.
In a time when digital access is foundational to education, business, and community engagement, Southwick’s commitment to establishing a robust fiber optic network reflects a forward-thinking vision. As residents consider their responses to the survey, they are invited to contemplate the broader implications of connectivity—not just in terms of technology, but in fostering relationships and building a supportive community.
As we ponder this initiative, let us draw inspiration from Philippians 2:4, which encourages us to look not only to our own interests but also to the interests of others. With this perspective, we can embrace the journey ahead with a spirit of collaboration, always aiming to uplift and enhance the life of our community.
As you reflect on this article, consider how we can all contribute to the common good, embodying principles of unity and stewardship in our daily lives. A community that values connectivity—both digitally and relationally—has the potential to thrive and inspire future generations.
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