Larimer County refers broadband-law exemption to November ballot

FORT COLLINS — Larimer County would be able to participate in bringing high-speed internet to its residents and businesses if voters approve a ballot issue in November.

County commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a recommendation to refer a question to the Nov. 8 general-election ballot that would request an exemption for Larimer County from Colorado Senate Bill 05-152. That measure, passed in 2005 at the urging of a telecommunications industry worried about government competition, prohibits local governments from involvement in broadband efforts, and also restricts governmental entities from actively partnering for grants, planning or implementation of Internet connectivity.

However, support for skirting…