Telecom...big subject with huge implications for economic development and citizen expectations. Inherent structural difficulties abound because of the relatively small Vermont market with scattered population centers and low density. Perception of Vermont telecom by visitors, particularly tourists seeking recreation, second homes, etc., is important. Some of these folks may be decision-makers who really like the place, but wonder about the telecom and other infrastructure to support them, should they contemplate moving or opening a business here.
We Vermonters struggle incessantly with this tension... to display VT as a quiet, laid-back, bucolic, wonderful place to 'be' (Please bring your $ and spend them here) and to offer the latest in telecom technologies to spur targeted types of business growth.
Today's hot telecom focus is broadband (for another day) and wireless.
Wireless:
Here's what savvy politicians should do. Candidates for statewide office and incumbents articulate this public policy: Vermont must have reliable, statewide digital cellular/mobile service by PICK YOUR NEAR TERM DATE...2004, 2005, 200? Many impediments (is 'challenges' more PC?) exist, but without a shared vision and clearly articulated policy, no coherent action plan can be developed. There are myriad details underneath such a declaration..., regulatory, environmental, vendor willingness, etc., but I think the right state leader could obtain buy-in from all parties to make it happen. Which candidate will step up to the plate?
Of course, an alternative is to leave this totally to the marketplace under the conditions providers now experience. Risky, given the pain of permitting, with no assurance that we'll have ubiquitous digital cell service any time soon. Unless providers have a predictable, cost-effective process for siting necessary antennas and equipment, why should they invest here if their options for limited capital are better elsewhere? Investment location choice is a marketplace reality! With the will to do so, Vermont can remove impediments and attract that investment here.
Some good news... "On August 14, 2002 the Environmental Board approved the Act 250 Application Package for Communications Facilities. The application package was approved after extensive input from telecommunications providers, the general public, state agencies, and other interested persons. The application package will provide for a more comprehensive and consistent review of telecommunications facilities under Act 250, including new towers and co-locations on existing structures." The not-so-good-news...the application consists of 23 pages, and it would appear that a complete application could require scores more pages. I wonder how much time and cost is consumed, on average to site a cell tower?? Wonder how that compares with VT, NH, NY, and other places... A savvy Vermont politician should find out.
Meanwhile, visitors to many parts of our fair state can't use their cell phones. Should we do a visitor exit survey to find out what they think?
[disclaimer: author is Board VP of Vermont Telecom Advancement Center]
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