Chronicle Editorial

Bringing broadband to the barn

     While the rest of the nation debates net neutrality, Iowa is set to engage in its own battle over speedy Internet service when the General Assembly convenes next week for the 2015 session.

     Buzz surrounding Gov. Terry Branstad's "Connect Every Acre" plan has grown recently. The idea, which was proposed during the governor's 2014 re-election campaign, features an eight-point list aimed at creating incentives to increase wireless broadband Internet service to rural areas in Iowa. Farmers would be the greatest benefactors of the plan, as their high-tech tractors and other equipment are increasingly dependent on reliable broadband service in the field.

     The proposal seems like a clear benefit for Iowa's many rural communities. If broadband is expanded, rural areas like ours could attract more businesses and improve many other vital services in addition to helping farmers in the field. However, "Connect Every Acre" needs to clear a few hurdles leftover from a previous piece of failed legislation if it's to become a reality in 2015.

     Last year Branstad pushed the "Connect Every Iowan Act," which ultimately died after legislators failed to agree on bold tax breaks aimed at enticing Internet service providers to rural areas. The plan encouraged companies to extend fiber optic service lines while simultaneously improving broadband infrastructure. Both Republicans and Democrats expressed support for the proposal, but they just couldn't hash out differences on tax breaks and other portions of the legislation.

     "Connect Every Acre" faces many of the same challenges this year; however, there's reason for hope. Lawmakers are well versed in broadband rhetoric following last year's proposal and know what they're looking at. That should clear the way for more thorough discussion and possible compromise as we look to the months ahead. It's incredibly unlikely that Branstad's entire plan will make it through the ringer, but it's important to give it a hard look nonetheless.

     Improving statewide broadband service would be a positive step in the right direction for Iowa's rural communities. We all know the frustration of driving down a country road without a reliable signal, and that problem can be exacerbated for farmers working in the field. After all, they rely on technology just like every other 21st Century business. Strengthening broadband service through incentive programs seems like a worthy investment for Iowa's farmers and rural communities. It will help keep them technologically competitive, which is incredibly important in today's economic climate.

Wallowing in a winter wonderland

     Snowbirds reading this newspaper from afar can rest easy knowing they made the right decision to fly south this winter. Franklin County was blasted by its first large storm earlier this week, providing a nice layer of snow to complement our bitter winds and frigid temperatures.

     The weather caused closures and other delays throughout the area. While snowstorms are always an unwanted event, the first big system gives us a chance to remember how serious winter weather can get sometimes. Temperatures dipped well below zero, visibility was extremely limited, and winds made it seem even colder. Iowans know all too well the dangers of braving the elements, and it's important to stay off the roads until maintenance crews can head out with the plows.

     This first snowstorm wasn't a record breaker by any means, but it was big enough to cause a fuss. It seems Iowans have very few things left to look forward to other than shoveling, runny noses and the winter blues for the rest of the season. It's easy to get frustrated during the winter, but just remember this ray of sunshine while the wind is howling outside: the first official day of spring is just over two months away.

     But hey, who's counting?