Aitkin County Officials discuss importance of expanding broadband service

A roundtable meeting was held in Aitkin City Hall to discuss the importance of expanding broadband service in Aitkin and throughout greater Minnesota. Among the officials, House DFL Leader Paul Thissen and State Representative John Persell were present to hear from local officials and community leaders about their concerns.

Just last year, Aitkin County ranked last among counties in Minnesota for broadband access to households. Which is why the first of two meetings to discuss broadband expansion took place in City Hall today.

House representatives and community officials gathered to discuss their concerns about the access they are receiving.

Some from even miles outside of Aitkin came to share their concerns.

Although a main priority of the House are areas in which there are no services at all, locals today described Aitkin County as being an under served area who will continue to fight for their broadband services.

And with potential service providers present, locals hope that Aitkin County can become one of the next priorities.

More discussion of expanding broadband services in the area is planned for later in the month.

The second gathering will take place September 29^th at the Long Lake Conservation Center. A Committee of the Whole meeting of Aitkin County Commissioners will take place at one o’clock, with local broadband providers invited.