WV SB735

Creates the West Virginia Broadband Development Program (WVBDP), allowing public agencies such as municipalities, county commissions, and development authorities to individually or jointly design, acquire, construct, and operate broadband systems

Establishes broadband development boards with at least five members, where at least half must be rate-paying residential customers, to manage and oversee broadband systems with four-year staggered terms

Authorizes boards to issue revenue bonds (up to 40-year terms, maximum 12% interest) secured by net revenues and a statutory mortgage lien on broadband system components, with bonds exempt from state and local taxation

Grants boards power of eminent domain to acquire land and easements for broadband infrastructure, except on Division of Highways property without express agreement from the Commissioner of Highways

Exempts broadband systems owned by boards from state, county, and municipal income, sales, and property taxes, and requires competitive bidding for construction projects exceeding $100,000