Municipal WiFi

CRFSaver · #1 (**permalink**) 08-16-2005, 08:13 AM

Has anyone followed what went on in Pennsylvania with this ban on municipal WiFi? While I was never sure how successful a municipal wifi would be, I definately don't agree with increasing the monopoly power of the DSL and Cable providers. What are everyones thoughts on this?

gakline · #2 (**permalink**) 08-16-2005, 08:14 AM

I'm for it, but I think it will be a while before the legal issues are resolved.

CRFSaver · #3 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 05:48 AM

You are for Municipal WiFi or increasing the monopolies of the cable and phone providers? Naperville still has municipal electric right?

gakline · #4 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 06:30 AM

I would like to see a municipal wifi. I would just like to see an alternative to cable and phone. I have satellite tv, and a cell phone, so I'd get slapped with extra charges. I would even pay for the municipal service (for security purposes).

Yep, Naperville has municipal electric. It's great. We have some of the lowest costs around. I even saw a thing that would allow the home owner to chose where they want to buy their electric (ie. wind, solar, bloomington, etc). However we don't have the option to have our electric turned off during peak hours.

CRFSaver · #5 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 10:20 AM

I lived in Naperville for a year and remember it being Municipal. When I lived in California I lived just outside of the County of Sacramento. SMUD (Sacramento Municipal Utility District) had such lower rates compared to PG&E. I like the idea of being able to get online anywhere within a municipalty. Imagine being able to work in the park or at the beach. There needs to be more competition for these services.

VJW · #6 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 10:35 AM

The telecoms flexed their political muscle and money to get the Pennsylvania legislature to ban Muni WiFi. It’s an absolute disgrace.

Without being partisan, the facts are that it was by an overwhelming margin the Republicans who took their money and then voted for this anti-consumer monstrosity.

The reality is that it is a continuation of their agenda.

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pennywise · #7 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 03:55 PM

Oakland County Michigan is in the process of working on free wireless internet for the residents. I can't wait. Time I get something for the taxes I pay.

cercis · #8 (**permalink**) 08-17-2005, 04:39 PM

I think municipal wireless would be a great idea. As Penny says, it's a service for your taxes.

Most cities provide water, sewage and trash, why not this?