Letter from Sen. Vinehout: Less expensive, fast Internet for public institutions

• Sen. Vinehout

Sen. Vinehout

Talk about it

“WiscNet was created to bring low cost internet to public entities,” said Senator Kathleen Vinehout in reaction to release of an audit examining the service.

For two decades the public has invested in bringing low cost internet to public schools, counties, Technical Colleges and libraries. The recent audit detailed the service, its operations, and its relationship to the University of Wisconsin.

“The audit shows three quarters of Wisconsin public schools are taking advantage of WiscNet to achieve reliable, quality internet services,” said Vinehout. “Two recent grants will further lower internet costs for some local schools, governments and health care institutions including those in the Chippewa Valley.”

The report also details the history of WiscNet as developed in cooperation with the University of Wisconsin. The report points out changes made in the Governor’s last budget directing WiscNet to separate from the UW system effective July 2013.

“It makes no sense to take the UW out of the equation in the administration of WiscNet,” said Vinehout. “The system is clearly working for our schools and local government.”

“Low cost internet for public entities is clearly in the public’s interest.” Vinehout concluded.

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