Urban and rural county leaders stress need for affordable internet

Affordable access was top of mind for elected county leaders from across the United States at a roundtable discussion hosted by Cox Communications. Carmen Moore-Zeigler, a commissioner representing District 2 in Alabama’s Montgomery County, stressed that the internet is a key factor when it comes to inspiring young people. Stan Sallee, a Tulsa County Commissioner from Oklahoma serving District 1, echoed similar sentiments. “Build it and they will come,” he said. Sallee said he’d hate to waste money on an infrastructure project people can’t afford. Robert Short, a Wyoming county commissioner from Converse County, said “Quite honestly, as we see the digital age continue to grow, people have no opportunity without connectivity,” he said. “It’s incredibly important for us to try to find ways to solve these disparities and give everybody the opportunity to succeed in their lives.” “So, the backup to help people afford it needs to be there,” he said.