In a recent government meeting, officials discussed ongoing negotiations regarding broadband services and the transition of customers from the struggling company BTS to Virginia Broadband. The negotiations, described as a \"two-way\" process, are still in the early stages, with no immediate resolution expected. Currently, BTS has seen a significant drop in its customer base, from over 300 to approximately 80, as many customers have switched to competitor APB.

Virginia Broadband is set to officially take over BTS's customers by August 30, but concerns were raised about service continuity during this transition. Officials noted that BTS has ceased operations, leaving customers uncertain about whom to contact for support. The county is currently responsible for a tower lease related to BTS, which has become a financial burden, costing around $1,700 monthly.

The meeting also highlighted the poor performance of existing broadband services, with several locations reporting subpar internet speeds. Discussions included potential partnerships with other providers, such as Verizon and T-Mobile, to improve service quality. However, skepticism about their reliability was expressed, particularly regarding T-Mobile's coverage.

As the county navigates these challenges, officials are considering legal options to recover unpaid lease fees from BTS, which has reportedly breached its contract. The conversation underscored the urgency of addressing these broadband issues, as residents continue to face connectivity problems.