Roanoke County leaders approve budget and broadband expansion

Roanoke County leaders voted 4 to 1 to approve the budget and capital improvements plan.

It includes spending $3.4 million dollars to expand the Roanoke Valley Broadband Authority's fiber optic network to the county.

Some say Roanoke County taxpayers shouldn't subsidize the service because other companies already provide it.

Others say the project is important for the county's economic development.

"Economic development, investment, creating jobs, that's a big deal and we have to be positioned with this in broadband because that's what companies are wanting," said Mike Altizer, who is a Roanoke County resident.

"I think if you want to compete in the broadband industry, put up your

own money and compete. Don't ask taxpayers to subsidize it," said Al Bedrosian, who is a supervisor.