HOLLAND, MI (WHTC AM/FM) – By a very slim margin, a $30 million bknd proposal for a municipal high speed internet system in Holland was passed by voters Tuesday.
The bond proposal passed by just over 200 votes, according to unofficial election results from the Ottawa County Clerk’s Office. There were 3,948 yes votes for the proposal, and 3,735 no votes.
The proposal will levy 1.5 mills, or $1.50 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation, in its first year.
The 25-year millage is expected to average out to an annual millage rate of 1.12 mills, depending on market conditions.
By installing a tax-funded open access fiber network, the Holland Board of Public Works would be able to provide customers with high speed and secure internet services that will be available throughout the city.
Customers who opt for the service would pay an $820 fee to connect it to their homes, which could be spread out over a payment plan.
The city plans to offer 1 gigabit of internet service for $42 a month, which would cover the cost of connection, operations and maintenance, and the internet service itself.
The city already has a fiber optics network installed downtown that is offered to all businesses, retailers, residents and restaurants located in the area. The network was installed as a pilot project in 2018.
Comments