Cherryville residents are being urged to play a role in resolving outstanding Internet issues.
The Cherryville Community Club will meet Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. to determine if space will be leased to ABC Communications for telecommunications equipment.
“The club is trying to make a decision based on community wishes,” said Eugene Foisy, electoral area director.
“If the equipment doesn’t go at the hall, ABC will need to find an alternate location.”
The lack of high-speed Internet has been a concern for many residents over the years, and particularly those operating businesses or with school-aged children.
In 2008, 127 signatures were received from people saying they would pay for a service if it was available. And on Aug. 8, 2013, 60 residents attended a meeting with ABC to get information and 56 stated they were in favour of the project.
After receiving a $250,000 provincial grant, the Regional District of North Okanagan issued a request for proposals for fixed wireless Internet service.
“ABC has a contract and has purchased equipment based on community meetings,” said Foisy, adding that other options for Internet were cost-prohibitive.
The Internet service will add nothing to the tax bill and residents don’t have to use the service.
“It’s completely voluntary,” said Foisy, adding that fixed wireless is the best solution for most residents and the provincial grant can only be used for that method.
Foisy hopes residents will attend Tuesday’s meeting about installing an antenna at the hall.
“Don’t put the burden on the few community club members to make this decision. They are all volunteers trying to do what is best for the community. Ultimately, this is a community decision,” he said.
