As part of its upgrade to fiber optics, Pioneer Broadband, a Houlton-based Internet provider, is looking for permission from the town to offer television services to its customers. In order to do so, the town must grant a franchise agreement with the company.
The Houlton Town Council introduced the proposal during Monday evening’s regular meeting, but did not discuss the matter. A public hearing will be held at the June 13 council meeting, at which time residents will be able to ask questions or offer their opinion on the proposal.
“Cable TV is easily distributed over the new fiber network and Houlton will be Pioneer’s third community to have the video product,” said Tim McAfee, Pioneer Broadband’s CEO. “Sherman and Stacyville were completed earlier this year. Pioneer is positioned to be a wholesale cable TV provider for municipal and competitive broadband operators throughout the state.”
Pioneer Broadband had to petition the town for the rights to become a cable television provider.
Resident Phil Bernaiche asked the council if the town could have two franchise agreements in place and encouraged the board to divulge more details before proceeding. The town currently has a franchise agreement with Time Warner Cable, but is not precluded from having a second provider, Houlton Town Manager Butch Asselin said.
The expansion project includes 54 miles of new fiber optic lines with the potential to serve 3,500 homes and businesses. Completion of the new network is expected by early fall. This project in Houlton is privately funded by Pioneer Broadband.
