TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Jeff Anderson, Deputy Chief Information Officer
Austin FitzCorbett, City Fiber Network Manager
Brian W. Caputo, Chief Operating Officer
DATE: November 12, 2026
SUBJECT:
A Resolution authorizing a subsidy of $120,000 to OnLight Aurora for Operational Support
PURPOSE:
To authorize a subsidy of $120,000 from the City of Aurora to OnLight Aurora. This funding will be used to cover outstanding vendor invoices and legal fees necessary to maintain OnLight’s operations.
BACKGROUND:
OnLight Aurora plays a critical role in managing and operating the city’s fiber network infrastructure for use by governmental, institutional, and commercial users. Due to recent business challenges, OnLight is facing cash flow difficulties that threaten its ability to meet immediate financial obligations, including payments to vendors and legal service providers.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed subsidy of $120,000 would be used to address currently outstanding liabilities and certain near-term operating costs, including vendor invoices and legal fees that are essential to OnLight’s continued functionality. This support is intended as a short-term measure to allow OnLight to remain operational while longer-term business strategies are developed.
The City recognizes the strategic importance of OnLight’s services and infrastructure, and this action reflects a commitment to preserving that asset for the benefit of the community.
A budget transfer will be submitted for this program to account 215-1280-419.53-42.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
Providing this subsidy will help OnLight Aurora avoid service disruptions, maintain vendor relationships, and continue delivering critical network services through May, 2027. It will also provide the necessary time to explore sustainable funding and operational models for the future.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
That the proposed resolution be adopted.
cc: Finance Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
RESOLUTION NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE _________...
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