RM of St. François Xavier (SFX)
Connected MB Podcast – Episode Title: “Fiber for the Future: Saint François Xavier’s Bold Broadband Build”
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of Connected MB, the team speaks with Reeve Delmar Rieu, CAO John Visser, and Councillor Jim Peru from the RM of Saint François Xavier about their bold and community-driven journey to deliver high-speed internet to every household in the municipality.
Amid unreliable service and limited provider interest—even in close proximity to Winnipeg—this rural community chose to take matters into their own hands, launching a municipally-owned fiber optic network. The project prioritized equity, ensuring every resident, regardless of location, had the same high-quality connection.
The conversation covers the planning, challenges, and incredible payoffs of this initiative, which saw 90% uptake and proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic. From economic development and educational access to lessons in governance and technical implementation, the RM’s experience offers a rich case study for other rural communities facing similar connectivity challenges.
Resources & Links:
- RM of Saint François Xavier: https://rm-stfrancois.mb.ca
- Project Contacts and Info: Connected MB Project Website
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