The Pitkin County Board of commissioners gave their unanimous support last night for a ballot measure that would allow government distribution of telecommunication services including cable TV and high-speed internet.
“We are asking for the voters’ assistance in being able to move broadband services forward in Pitkin County for economic reasons (and for) public safety reasons,” said commissioner Rachel Richards.
A 2005 Colorado law outlaws government from competing in cable, telephone, and high speed internet markets unless voters approve a measure such as the one on the fall ballot. The proposal would not increase taxes, and would most likely result in a public/private partnership for infrastructure and implementation.