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FCC's McDowell To Rural Providers: Participate In The Wireless Spectrum Auction

February 6, 2007

FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell - you know him from his adamant self-recusal to vote on the now approved AT&T acquisition of BellSouth- has just addressed the National RuralTelecommunications Cooperative Association in Orlando.

His core advice to the assemblage of the group's more than 1,000 primarily rural utilities and service providers: Take advantage of the upcoming 700 MHz spectrum auction to arm yourself for the future.

First, McDowell set up his position by noting that as of June 30 last year, high-speed access lines increased 26% from 51 million to 64 million, but that the mobile industry showed a much larger increase in broadband access: 2187%.

Such numbers speak volumes.

McDowell told the group that “Wireless broadband is the wave of the future. I strongly encourage you to adapt.” He noted the group's own 2006 survey that  said half of rural providers are considering offering wireless service. “I strongly encourage all of us to take the plunge now,” McDowell said.

McDowell hammered the point home by saying  it is important to start the proposed 700 Mhz spectrum auction no later than this Fall. The Commissioner added that he hoped the FCC would have enabling rules in place by the end of next month.

“I hope you will be active participants in the 700 MHz auction," McDowell emphasized. "America needs you to walk away as successful bidders. Don’t fear the coming changes. Adapt to them. Don’t just try to survive; be determined to prevail. You are only limited by your own self-confidence.”

 




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