Cleveland City Council Repeals Agreement for Citywide Fiber Network
Cleveland is ending its agreement with SiFi Networks Cleveland LLC to develop a citywide fiber optic network. Through the passage of emergency ordinance 630-2026, City Council has voted to repeal a 2023 agreement that originally authorized the Director of Finance to work with the company to install and maintain high-speed internet infrastructure within the city's public right-of-way.
What's in the file
The ordinance officially repeals Ordinance No. 583-2023, which was passed on October 2, 2023. According to the 630-2026- Repeal Ordinance 583-2023- Sifi Networks document, the city is terminating the association because SiFi Networks failed to fulfill its commitments. The official rationale for the repeal includes:
- Failure to install any fiber infrastructure.
- Failure to identify final installation sites.
- Failure to apply for or obtain necessary permits.
- Failure to commence any construction activities.
A memorandum from the Department of Innovation & Technology notes that while some planning conversations occurred, the lack of progress undermines the intended public benefits of the project. The city stated it will now pursue alternative means to achieve its broadband infrastructure goals.
Who may be affected
- Director of Finance: The authority previously granted to enter into the development deal is revoked.
- Department of Innovation & Technology: This department will continue to look for alternative solutions to expand connectivity.
- Internet Service Providers: The city intends to continue partnering with providers currently operating within Cleveland.
Status and timeline
- October 2, 2023: Ordinance No. 583-2023 was passed, authorizing the development of the fiber network.
- May 8, 2026: Ordinance 630-2026 was introduced to repeal the previous agreement.
- May 29, 2026: The emergency ordinance passed and is now in effect.
Residents can verify these details by reviewing the official records through the Cleveland City Council website.
Source record
- File
- 630-2026
- Type
- Emergency Ordinance
- Status
- Passed
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- May 7, 2026
Official documents
- 630-2026- Repeal Ordinance 583-2023- Sifi Networks
- 630-2026 Memo to Law - SiFi Networks - Signed
- 630-2026 FINAL VERSION CITY RECORD MAY 29, 2026 PG. 47