Northeast Salem residents expressed their frustration during a recent neighborhood association meeting over the installation of fiber-optic cables by Ezee Fiber, a Texas-based internet service provider. The residents claimed that the company’s workmen, with heavy machinery, invaded their neighborhoods and damaged their property.

Concerns Over Notification and Property Damage

Residents stated that they received little to no notice before the construction began, which led to damaged waterlines and private property. However, officials from Ezee Fiber’s regional headquarters in Washington said they sent out numerous letters, door hangers, and other types of notices before the construction started.

A company spokesman, Jim Schwartz, acknowledged the residents’ concerns and apologized for any inconvenience caused. He emphasized that the company follows local rules, stays within permitted easements and right-of-way, and restores any affected property to its original condition or better.

City Councilor Paul Tigan and Council President Linda Nishioka, who represent the area, attended the meeting and addressed the residents’ concerns. Tigan noted that people felt they didn’t receive adequate notification, leading to surprise and frustration when the construction began. Nishioka pointed out that Ezee Fiber has a permit to install its fiber-optic cables in the public right-of-way and pays a franchise fee to the city for its access.

Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.