A top state official says the idea is to bring technology to the Northwoods without wrecking the environment.
Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch stopped by the Vilas County Business Incubator in Eagle River Friday.
She was asked about the possibility of bringing more high speed internet here...
".....you all understand how broadband is essential for economic development, education development and public safety development. I know there's a split constituency on this, attracting more development versus less development...."
Kleefisch says even with keeping the environment preserved, there's a need for connectivity. The state has been offering grants to local businesses to bring more forms of high-speed internet to rural areas. The Northwoods received the first round of those grants, and grants have gone to other portions of the state.
While touring, Barry Mcleane from Vilas County Economic Development told Kleefish students are often at a disadvantage because of slow internet speeds...
"....it's critical up here for education. Half these kids go home from school and don't have high-speed internet so they stay at school an extra three hours a day. That's all stuff we have to deal with...."
Kleefisch says more aid to rural schools was built into the new state budget. She says some criteria was changed so more schools and libraries will have broadband access.
