Potential for a Telecom Deal?

They want something.

We want something.

Is statewide permitting worth enough to Verizon that they'll agree to pay the property taxes on telephone poles and switches? Is the increased property tax revenue worth the reduction in barganing power that cities and towns have with their cable companies? Has anyone asked?

Pipe dream bonus question: What if the state allowed utility companies to use flaggers instead of police details when doing work? Sure, it probably won't happen, but perhaps we can make the bitter pill of removing the telecom property tax loophole easier to swallow by giving these companies what they want in other areas. The state has bargaining chips. Is anyone at the bargaining table?