Myth #5: Is Broadband a Core Government Function?

Myth #5: “Broadband Is Not a Core Government Function”

Some argue cities should stick to potholes, pipes, and snowplows.
But history shows otherwise. Roads, water, and power weren’t “core” either—until they were.

Infrastructure Has Always Evolved

Infrastructure grows with public need.
Today, residents need broadband to:

• Work remotely

• Access telehealth

• Take classes

• Start businesses

Potholes matter. But without connectivity, people are stuck.

The False Choice

Broadband doesn’t drain budgets from roads.

• Cities run multiple systems at once

• Broadband uses separate funding (bonds, partnerships, user fees)

• No one says, “Stop water to fix sidewalks”

So why frame broadband as a luxury?

Broadband Makes Government Work Better

It enables:

• Online permits and services

• Remote civic engagement

• Faster emergency response

• Smarter traffic systems

That’s not “extra.” That’s mission-critical.

Broadband Serves People Everywhere

Traditional infrastructure serves places. Broadband serves people.

• Seniors need telehealth

• Students need Wi-Fi

• Police and fire need secure networks

• Local businesses need bandwidth to compete

It multiplies the impact of every other service.

Connected Cities Stay Competitive

You can’t lead a modern city with outdated infrastructure.
If the town next door has affordable fiber, you risk:

• Families leaving

• Companies slowing investment

• Young professionals moving elsewhere

Connectivity is now a deciding factor.

Cities Already Proving It Works

Examples across the U.S. show cities can do both:

• Oakland, CA: citywide digital equity network

• Colorado Springs, CO: massive municipal fiber project

• Fairlawn, OH: 90% household coverage

• Chattanooga, TN: national model

They didn’t step in to compete. They stepped in to serve.

Final Word

Private providers had decades. They didn’t connect everyone.
Cities aren’t overreaching. They’re doing what leadership requires.
Roads and water built yesterday’s cities.
Broadband will shape tomorrow’s.

That’s a wrap on the series! (So far.)

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