The Gadsden Board of County Commissioners met with Figgers Communication, Inc. during a special meeting last week in an attempt to move the broadband internet project forward. However, the project remains at a stand still.
The county entered a contract with Figgers Communication in January. Figgers Communication began issuing wireless hotspot devices to residents on February 17.
Two days later, as Figgers Communication prepared to roll out more devices over the weekend, the county sent the company a cease and desist letter.
“The county only had one issue—delivery and confirmation of hotspots,” County Administrator Ed Dixon said during the meeting.
Germaine Bebe, Figgers Communication’s chief financial officer, attended the meeting via Zoom.
Bebe said after receiving the cease and desist letter, Figgers Communication did not hear from the county for more than a month.
“We have not violated this contract in anyway,” Bebe said. “There is nothing in the contract that requires verification for an initial payment.”
After nearly two hours of going back and forth, the county and Figgers Communication could not agree on a resolution.
Dixon suggested giving Figgers Communication time to allow the county more time to verify the devices.
Bebe said Figgers Communication continues to provide service to residents who have received the wireless hotspots, despite not receiving payment from the county.
The board is set to vote on whether or not the county will pay Figgers Communication during the next regularly scheduled board meeting, which will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April20.
The meeting can also be viewed live on the Board of County Commissioners Facebook page.
