Full Text
MAYOR’S MESSAGE July 2014 On June 24, the Murray City Council convened in a public meeting to consider whether it would be in the City’s best interest to continue toward Milestone 2 of the proposed public-private partnership with UTOPIA/Macquarie Capital or to discontinue further financial obligations to this utility-based model. In expressing their concerns with some of the basic premises of this proposal, the Council voted unanimously to not continue. Some of the concerns we have with the current proposal: The utility-based model requires a fee on every rooftop in Murray - $10 for apartments, $18-$20 for individual homes and $40 for businesses. No amount of this basic internet charge would go towards paying down existing bond debt. Awareness that there are those who do not want this service, are under contracts that would not allow them to use this option and those to whom this fee would be a serious financial burden. Committing to a contract for 30 years based on presently existing technology. Our commitment to offer services to residents instead of insuring a substantial profit to a private enterprise. No opportunity to investigate other possible solutions that might be available to us. I want to reiterate, like mentioned in the meeting, the decision from the Council was based on facts presented in the proposal and by input from citizens. There were organizations trying to influence the decision-making process, but the Council listened to their constituents. Hundreds of citizens sent emails, completed surveys and made phone calls to the Mayor’s office and to each Council member. These responses were read, listened to and considered before the final vote was made. There was input from residents in every area of the city. The next question is where do we go from here? We realize that many residents and businesses use the UTOPIA service in Murray--we do not want it to fail. The goal is to find the right solution and then expand and improve the fiber optic capabilities. Murray City will continue to work with UTOPIA to find solutions. The level of citizen response to this issue was not only gratifying, but was also further evidence of just how much our residents are informed and involved in their community. I want to thank you for the invaluable contributions you provided on this critical issue that will impact our City for years to come. At this level of government, your calls, emails and opinions are vital and extremely valued. Thank you for this privilege to serve. Sincerely, Ted Eyre, Mayor