Iowa Panel Proposes No Changes In Control of Fiber-Optics Network

By Robert C. Johnston

Iowa officials should retain management of their ambitious 3,000-mile fiber-optics network, at least through 2002, a special commission recommended last week.

The Iowa Telecommunications and Technology Commission advised the state to stay the course after considering 10 options, including leasing the network and forming a partnership with private interests, which have complained that the mostly state-run network monopolizes high-tech business in the state.

Schools and libraries, the biggest beneficiaries of the network, have been concerned that loosening state control could balloon...