The Prior Lake City Council on Tuesday approved the first step in bringing a new cable and broadband provider to the city, moving forward with a proposal from Comcast, also known as Xfinity.

Council members determined that Comcast meets the qualifications to be granted a cable franchise. The company is proposing to build a high-speed fiber network that would provide service to every residence in Prior Lake.

Comcast currently operates 15 service centers throughout the Twin Cities metro and plans to open a new retail location in Burnsville. The space would offer customer support, equipment exchanges and upgrades, bill payment and other services.

“We want to be a great city partner throughout the process,” said Meghan Shea, Comcast director of government affairs. “When the time comes and everything is complete, we will send out mailers and let people know they now have access.”

Shea said Comcast plans to use local contractors during construction and will work closely with city Public Works staff to coordinate permitting and scheduling. Residents will be notified door to door with flyers before construction begins on their streets. A local phone number will also be available for questions or concerns.

The franchise agreement itself will come before the council for a final vote after details are finalized.