DTC Attorneys Present Seminars for Planners and Local Officials on Telecommunications Infrastructure and Broadband

Attorneys Rob Ciandella and Kate Miller presented two programs on “Telecommunications Infrastructure in NH” and “Making the Connection: What Communities Need to Know About Broadband and Telecommunications,” sponsored by the Central NH Regional Planning Commission in Concord and Bow on June 10, 2014.  The seminars supported the work of local planning commissions to develop broadband plans for their communities.  The presentation covered the basics of cable TV franchise law, wireless facility permitting and the importance of a robust planning process for protecting and enhancing broadband opportunities in our cities and towns. Enhanced broadband opportunities in our communities will bring greater economic development, strengthening the local and state economies.  The take-away message from the seminars: planning and enacting legislative initiatives at the local level, including telecommunications zoning ordinances, selectmen’s ordinances and Master Plans, are key to fostering greater deployment of broadband infrastructure, including facilities of cable TV operators, competitive internet service providers, incumbent and competitive telephone companies.