COLTON – A committee to see if there is interest in finding a broadband internet vendor for rural areas of the town has been formed in Colton.

The committee is attempting to identify residents and businesses that now have no internet access or have dial-up or satellite connections, especially in largely unserved areas of the town, including South Colton.

The committee is asking for input from permanent and seasonal residents, business owners, and those outside the town who own property in Colton.

The committee is working with SLIC Network Solutions, Inc. on a grant application that will be prepared in June. The committee is asking for survey responses be returned by June 8, asking questions such as resident status; what internet service is already used at the residence or business, if any; if there is interest in getting high-speed internet for those who do not now have it; and how such service would improve use of the internet.

They are also curious to know if seasonal residents or non-resident property owners would consider staying longer in Colton or moving there.

Responses ca bee mailed to Grace Hawley, 94 Main St., Colton, NY 13625, or dropped off at the Town Clerk’s office.

Those with questions may contact Hawley at ghawley2000@yahoo.com or 262-2439, or Lyn Swafford at swafford@northnet.org.

The committee is also collecting letters of support for the grant application. To participate, address a letter to Roseanne Murphy and email or mail it to Hawley, or drop it off at the Town Clerk’s office or email it to Donna Arquiett at clerk1@townofcolton.com.