Mathews is at a disadvantage in recruiting new businesses because it lacks reliable high-speed internet service in many parts of the county, several people said during an economic development forum Monday night.

Sponsored by the Mathews County Chamber of Commerce, the forum at the historic courthouse brought together several state and local officials to sit on a panel. They were joined by about 20 local business owners who spent 90 minutes talking about the pros and cons of doing business in Mathews.

Even if Mathews County should acquire better high-speed internet service throughout the county, David Hudgins, an executive of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, said after the forum that does not mean the county will actually be that much ahead of the economic development curve. "Mathews is playing catch-up," he said.

Several business owners said they are at a major disadvantage by not having access to high-speed internet service. Lack of this service makes it harder for ...