I have alluded to this investment earlier – but wanted to call it out again, according to Lakeland Broadcasting Company…

Representative Dave Baker of Willmar says Century Link plans to invest a million dollars in Kandiyohi County to expand broadband services to underserved areas. Baker says the company will utilize federal Connect America Funds, or CAF-2, which match spending by private companies. Baker says a map of where they plan to expand was unveiled at a broadband meeting with Lt. Governor Tina Smith last week…

…Representative Tim Miller thinks Century Link is reacting to news that other providers are interested in expanding broadband in the county.

I suspect Kandiyohi County would be happy to work with any provider – all things being equal. But the requirements for CAF II funds are lower than requirements being discussed for state funding. So this may be a mixed blessing.