Sure, the US needs serious reform when it comes to internet, but again, local governments will never be able to afford the laying and maintenance of the infrastructure, and making it a "requirement" isn't the best idea. Water isn't a requirement. It's a utility provided by either local, state, not-for-profit, or for profit entities, and its use is regulated heavily (in some areas), but if you don't pay your bill, you don't get water. The companies aren't forced by law to provide you with water. You still have to pay a tap fee (several thousand dollars) to acquire service and then pay monthly to maintain it.
It may seem silly, but there are serious disadvantages to labeling internet as a "basic utility".
Again, infrastructure is expensive. I mean super expensive. It's understated. It isn't as simple as throwing lines on poles or digging a trench and throwing pipe in.