The construction of the conduit network is an infrastructure project that is included in our capital improvement budget. The City issues bonds every year (sometimes several times a year) to pay for public infrastructure. One key difference with the conduit network project is that this infrastructure will actually generate revenue (unlike roads and bridges) from internet providers who use the conduit network. The City’s excellent AAA credit rating allows us to borrow money at extremely low interest rates, and that makes it possible for us to undertake a variety of projects that make West Des Moines a great place to live and work.
Although the City Council always has the authority to raise or lower taxes, the funds to pay for construction of the conduit network have been budgeted in a fiscally responsible manner that helps us maintain our outstanding credit rating with Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s.