La Conner officials have threatened Ziply Fiber with a stop work order following a wave of resident complaints about alleged property damage linked to the company’s ongoing fiber optic network installation.
Ziply’s fiber optic network is intended to deliver high-speed internet, phone, and television services to the area. While some residents have praised the service after installation, others have expressed frustration with the process, describing torn-up yards, water leaks, and “messy work” related to the network upgrade.
Town Public Works Director Brian Lease raised the possibility of halting the project during a meeting with Ziply representatives and the project’s general contractor, after repeated attempts to meet failed. Lease reported on the discussion during the June 24 Town Council meeting at Maple Hall.
“I said I would shut down the job until they get stuff back in order,” Lease told council members. “They have to follow procedures for construction.”
Ziply representative Ryan Luckin said the company places door hangers in advance of fiber construction to try to give people a heads up about what the installation will entail.
“We try to educate folks and help them understand this is what’s going to happen,” Luckin said.
The door hanger includes a QR that points to Ziply’s website with more information available via videos, a Q&A, and a form for questions.
Construction was completed at the end of May at more than 600 addresses in La Conner. Luckin said the company received just three inquiries from La Conner residents, two were about restoration work.
“Every single issue is either resolved or being addressed,” Luckin said. “That could be replacing sod, it could be fixing a sprinkler system, or going back and doing asphalt work.”
Luckin said customers should contact Ziply directly if they have questions or concerns via their website at https://ziplyfiber.com/new-fiber-locations/construction-process.
“We had a lot of crews in La Conner all at the same time, which can be overwhelming for smaller cities, to be getting multiple inquiries all at the same time,” Luckin said.
Town Assistant Planner Ajah Eills clarified that a stop work order would not prevent Ziply from offering service in La Conner, but would ensure the company complies with Town standards.
Lease explained that the use of multiple subcontractors has complicated accountability. “When somebody does something wrong, they blame one of the other subcontractors,” he said.
Despite the problems, Lease acknowledged the demand for the upgraded service.
“We’re signed up with Ziply and they did an excellent job,” said Council Member Rick Dole. “It’s top-notch. It’s really fast.”
Bill Reynolds is a general assignment reporter who covers Town government, schools, and spot news.
