Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Madison County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities
Broadband expansion under ConnectALL grant
The board approved a $368,200 amendment to its ECC Technologies contract for optical design of the broadband fiber network — all paid by the state grant. The USDA ReConnect work is due by year-end 2026.
Broadband operations budget modification
Broadband utility costs came in about $9,957 over budget, but Empire Access revenue covers the difference, so no net hit to county taxpayers.
Cazenovia-to-Chittenango Broadband Expansion (MCPLUS)
Empire successfully tested fiber from Cazenovia to Chittenango, with service expected soon pending final permits and a tentative public notice date of October 14.
Broadband build-out under the Municipal Infrastructure Grant
The state kicked in roughly $2.5 million more to extend broadband about 21 additional miles, and the board fixed the ECC Technologies contract to match.
Broadband expansion via Madison County Connect
The county amended its agreement with Empire Long Distance to expand fiber internet to underserved rural areas, backed by a $12.57 million state ConnectALL grant.