TCBA makes statement on KUB’s broadband vote
June 19, 2021

NASHVILLE – In response to the Board of Commissioners’ vote authorizing the Knoxville Utility Board (KUB) to provide broadband services in the area, Amy Martin, President of the Tennessee Cable and Broadband Association (TCBA), released the following statement:

“The Board’s vote today is premature. To ensure the best decisions are made on behalf of the community, it’s important to consider alternative ways to get the latest broadband technology to everyone in our community. Additionally, safeguards must be put into place when a government utility competes with private business,” said Amy Martin. “KUB should not be allowed to use its market power as a monopoly utility to put private jobs at risk.

Rather than pursuing the sort of public-private partnership that has quickly and cost-effectively brought broadband service to thousands of unserved rural community homes and businesses in Tennessee, KUB’s broadband buildout will take years to complete and increase electric bills by almost 10 percent.”

Martin continued, “When cable companies partner with the state and local communities, we’ve shown it’s possible to expeditiously and cost-effectively deliver advanced broadband services where the need is vital. That’s the better approach.”

TCBA is a partner in the advanced communications industry committed to meeting the needs of each Tennessean – student, family, worker, business owner, entertainment consumer.