The reasons why municipalities and cooperatives build community-owned broadband networks are numerous, often fueled by years of frustration with the spotty, expensive service offered by the big monopoly incumbents.

In northern Minnesota earlier this month, we came across yet another example of why an increasing number of localities are finding publicly-owned, locally-controlled telecommunication infrastructure so appealing: the “profits” don’t get funneled into the pockets of distant shareholders but are instead reinvested back into the local economy.

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In the case of Paul Bunyan Communications, the “profits” are shared with its members.

Earlier this month, the Bemidji-based telephone cooperative – which serves 30,000 members spread across its 6,000-square-mile service area – announced it is returning over $3 million to its members this year.

Capital Credit Retirements

As the cooperative explained in a recent press release:

“Paul Bunyan Communications is a not-for-profit company that strives to provide the highest quality service at the most affordable rates. As a cooperative, membership in Paul Bunyan Communications includes the opportunity to share in the financial success of the company.”