Morrison County Board supports rural broadband expansion

The Morrison County Board of Commissioners heard a request at its Tuesday, April 23 meeting to support a local internet service provider’s grant applications aimed at expanding high-speed fiber optic networks to underserved areas of the county.

County Administrator Matt LeBlanc presented information on grants available through the State Border to Border 10 broadband program and Federal Reconnect 5 funds. He explained that Sytek, based in Upsala, is seeking the Board’s endorsement as it applies for about $4 million from either grant funds to build out service that would impact approximately 400 homes in the vicinity of Flensburg and Sobieski and south to North Prairie.

LeBlanc noted Sytek has invested over $25 million in Morrison County since 2010, with past projects reaching parts of Little Falls, Swanville, and Motley. If awarded the grants, the new project would lay approximately 90 miles of fiber infrastructure.

Commissioner Greg Blaine, whose district includes the target areas, moved to provide an updated letter of support and commit $5,000 from the county’s Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Fund (LATCF), which is tied to American Rescue Plan Act funds.

“This is probably about the least we can do to help in that effort, to help residents have better access. I also think that we also have to remember Sytek is a part of our county, based in the city of Upsala, and they’re doing good work here. I recognize the fact that most of the what is on the map here resides in my district, in District 5, but I’ll let the rest of the Board know I would be supportive of this same action with with Sytek or any of the other fiber installers who are looking to help other parts of Morrison County have better access,” Blaine said. “This is a good thing for Morrison County. Obviously, it would be a good thing for those areas in the western part of our county out there. ”

While concerned about precedent, Commissioner Randy Winscher said each request would be evaluated individually. Commissioner Jeffrey Jelinski echoed that broadband expansion benefits all of Morrison County.

The Board voted unanimously in favor after Administrator LeBlanc clarified the $5,000 contribution would not set any funding match requirements for local governments. If Sytek is unsuccessful in securing a grant, the county’s money would be returned.