Ottawa members successfully support $25M local broadband initiative

Roughly $25 million was at stake for a local broadband proposal awaiting approval by the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners and time was ticking.

Ottawa County Farm Bureau decided they didn’t want to leave the issue to chance. They engaged, spoke up on behalf of agriculture, and it paid off — with the commissioners unanimously passing the proposal Dec. 12 after quickly adding it to their meeting agenda that morning. It wasn’t originally planned for discussion, or action.  

“Rural broadband remains a major factor impacting the ability of our farms and agribusinesses to compete and participate in the economy,” said Ottawa County Farm Bureau President Adam Dietrich. “This is another step in the right direction, and I’m proud of the response we received — it shows our members see the importance of weighing in on local issues.”

The action request put out by the county resulted in 81 individuals reaching out to the 11 county commissioners, generating 891 emails in total.

According to the Holland Sentinel, the project is expected to result in nearly 400 miles of new fiber in the county and provide further internet access to nearly 10,000 residents and businesses. 

Of the roughly $25 million now dedicated to the project, $14 million was secured through a state grant for Realizing Opportunities with Broadband Infrastructure Networks. An additional $7.5 million coming from the American Rescue Plan Act funds. And finally, internet service provider 123Net contributing $3.5 million. 

Michigan Farm Bureau Government Relations Specialist Matt Kapp said this is a prime example of why it’s important county Farm Bureau leaders and members follow local government activity and weigh in on behalf of agriculture. 

“I applaud the Ottawa County Farm Bureau for stepping up and getting involved on this issue,” Kapp said. “In every county of the state the county Farm Bureau is more than likely the largest agricultural organization in the county. 

“If the county Farm Bureau does not step up and represent agriculture who will?”