EASTHAMPTON — Newly elected City Councilor Thomas Peake is requesting the city establish a Telecommunications Advisory Committee to research the idea of offering affordable, high-quality internet to Easthampton residents.
“I have had a number of constituents request that the city research the possibility of taking a more active role in ensuring fast, affordable, net-neutral internet access,” Peake wrote in the request to City Council.
Peake, an economist, said that the cable industry can form monopolies in cities and towns. And when there can’t be competition, Peake said local government should look into offering the service.
Offering high-speed internet as a utility could also be an economic development advantage, Peake said, adding that companies will want to be located where internet is affordable and fast.
“There’s a lot of research that needs to be done,” Peake said, adding that the committee would allow the city to focus on the subject. “I just want to make sure we gave give people the best internet that we can.”
He proposes that the nine-member committee include members from the Board of Public Works, Planning Board, Economic Development and Industrial Commission, City Council and five members appointed by the mayor. Peake added that he’s open for discussion and revision to his proposal.
“We have the power to do this,” Peake said. “I wanted to get this conversation started.”
Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.