• Herriman residents often express a desire for more and better internet options that serve the entire city.
  
• So far, private internet service provider companies (ISPs) have not chosen to install fiber-optic connections in many areas of Herriman. Some areas have two or fewer options for internet access, and typically only the newest subdivisions have fiber-optic infrastructure. This is partly because it is generally more expensive for ISPs to install infrastructure in existing neighborhoods than in new ones as they are being built.
  
• A City-owned, citywide network provides an opportunity for 100% residents to have access to high-speed internet while allowing multiple ISPs to compete on the open market for residents’ subscriptions. 
  
• The City can require a high level of service for any ISP wishing to use its fiber-optic network.
  
• This style of network and service helps avoid a monopoly for any one company while allowing every home and business to have an opportunity for quality internet access.
  
• ISP companies don’t need to worry about installing and owning the infrastructure themselves. Rather, they may simply buy in to an existing system where they can serve any Herriman home or business.
  
• The City government is interested in the ability to have its own secured network that reaches all its facilities and infrastructure. This would help manage traffic infrastructure, stormwater flow, and water usage, and enhance emergency services.
  
• Universal high-speed internet access helps enhance education, telehealth, an efficient and growing economy, and more.
  

While it is true that a privately owned and operated fiber network (such as Google Fiber) would eliminate up-front costs by the City, subscribers to any private company cover both the costs of the company’s own installed network and the costs of providing internet access. A City-owned network’s monthly user fees would do the same, but would come with other advantages as well, including ensuring 100% of homes and businesses have access, allowing multiple companies to compete for customers, and improving City services.

Financial models are still being formed for a citywide network, but the City does not intend to move forward on the project if the users’ monthly fee is not competitive with current market prices.

Right now, Herriman City and Strata Networks are working on a scope, high-level design, and business and financial models. Those items will be presented to the City Council between August and the end of 2023. If the City moves forward with the project, construction would likely begin by late 2024 and be completed within a few years.

The exact business model is still being formulated, and the exact financial method will depend on what the City Council chooses. The infrastructure cost is expected to be between 30 to 50 million dollars. Payment will likely include a bond that is paid back by monthly service fees and private internet service provider company buy-in fees.

Monthly service fee options may include a subscription cost for homeowners and businesses who use the network and/or a utility fee charged to all homeowners and businesses.

No. Herriman City is hiring Strata Networks to design (and likely build) the network, but the City will own the system. The City will then allow internet service provider companies who meet qualifications to use the network and compete to provide internet service to residents. So, even though one company is building the network and Herriman City owns it, it is still a free market for residents to choose the best option for them.