April 1, 2021

Today, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) hosted a variety of industry partners for a roundtable discussion on broadband access and Governor Tony Evers’ 2021-2023 biennial budget. This roundtable was moderated by DATCP Secretary-designee Randy Romanski.

Cooperative Network President & CEO Dan Smith participated in the discussion and shared He shared how important broadband is for co-ops, especially in relation to these three things: cooperation between all of our businesses, building communities and building communication channels.

“If we can successfully do that in the future, we have a great chance to revitalize rural Wisconsin and make lemonade out of lemons.” -Dan Smith

Other participants included:

  • Jaron McCallum, State Broadband Director, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
  • Shane Goplin, Board Secretary/Treasurer, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association
  • Ashley Gausman, Board Member, Wisconsin Agri-Business Association
  • Julie Bomar, Executive Director, Wisconsin Farmers Union
  • Bob Karls, Executive Director, Wisconsin Soybean Association
  • Adam Warthesen, Director of Government and Industry Affairs, Organic Valley
  • Joe Ruth, Legal Counsel, Wisconsin Towns Association
  • Mark O’Connell, Executive Director, Wisconsin Counties Association

View the discussion in its entirety, below.

 

DATCP Broadband Roundtable