The City of Minden is exploring the idea of bringing fiber optic internet access to town. According to a press release from Minden Economic Development, the city is moving forward with a plan to establish a franchise agreement with a private fiber optic network services provider.
“It is no less important than having good roads, safe bridges, ample water supply or good water drainage systems,” the release reads. “Fiber optic internet technology is the new infrastructure, but it’s hard to get for many small rural communities. If communities like Minden are ever going to have a fighting chance to engage young talent and attract new investment, they will need fiber optics and data communication at an affordable price.”
The network provider will be required to offer City residents, community organizations, businesses, and agencies with accountable, affordable, fast, and reliable fiber-optic and data communication services.
“The first step of this goal is to conduct a Fiber Optic Feasibility Study to examine how Minden and Webster Parish are currently being served with broadband services,” the release read. “The City of Minden has partnered with Magellan Advisors, an international broadband and telecommunications planning firm, to assist in the development of a Fiber Optic Feasibility Study.”
James Graham, Economic Development Director, City of Minden, said, “Magellan Advisors will be in our community in the coming days to meet with community organizations and businesses to understand the specific broadband needs of our community. In other words, to determine the “State of Broadband” in Minden and document the challenges and needs of our community.”
Members of the Board of the Consortium of Minden/Webster Parish will be contacting local businesses and community organizations to set up meetings with Magellan Advisors.
“Having such a high-speed internet and data communication service in Minden that is dedicated to servicing our community will send a signal that we are serious about attracting good companies and having talented young people engaged in the growth of Minden,” Mayor Tommy Davis said.