Various media outlets (Ottawa Business Journal, Ottawa Citizen) are reporting that Ottawa’s electric utility is selling Telecom Ottawa, its broadband network and wireless Internet business.
The sale of Telecom Ottawa is said to help Hydro Ottawa refocus its business on generating and distributing power, especially in the wake of disappointing financial returns to the city.
Who will be the most likely bidders?
Is the focus on core business going to be something to watch in other jurisdictions?
To what extent should utelcos address telecom services differently in major centres versus markets with fewer competitive alternatives? How should municipalities exercise political strategies through ownership of infrastructure?