Strata Networks held its 70th Annual Meeting on June 1, bringing together members, stakeholders, and employees to discuss the cooperative’s developments and plans for the future. During the meeting, it was announced that after an uncontested election, the following were re-elected to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors: Kelly Dastrup, Vernal District; Joann Winn, Randlett District; and Max Fabrizio, Tabiona District.
After a customer appreciation dinner, the meeting began with a report from Board Treasurer/Secretary Mindi Crowley, who stated that despite being affected by the inflation and labor market like many others, Strata had another successful financial year. She also informed those in attendance that $250,000 in capital credits would be paid out to members soon.
Following the financial report, Board President Ashley Shiner addressed the audience to shed light on the cooperative’s extensive community contributions, which include scholarship & youth programs, supporting local initiatives, hosting charity events, and participating in community improvement projects, including the recently completed reconstruction of the American Legion building in Duchesne.
“I am proud to be a part of this cooperative that has done so much for our communities,” Shiner stated. “I also take pride in what Strata makes happen in this small rural part of Utah. I consider it a privilege to be a part of this Board.”
Strata Networks CEO/General Manager Bruce Todd presented on the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its fiber network locally and beyond, stating that the need for fiber infrastructure is “paramount.” He noted that regulators have recognized this vital need and, as a result, there is increased funding in broadband infrastructure to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to high-speed internet in rural and urban areas.
According to Todd, over 13,600 locations in the Uintah Basin are currently passed with fiber, and the company continues to build an additional 1,000 each year.
Todd also touched on the importance of diversifying revenue sources to maintain and grow the business, providing examples of the many ways that the company has introduced new revenue in the past. Today, the company can be seen performing work outside of the Uintah Basin for municipalities that are building and funding their own networks, which is a more recent approach Strata is taking to diversify, sustain the company’s financial success, and benefit its members.
Members also heard from Brent Simmons, Strata’s Vice President of Technology, who elaborated more on the topic of fiber expansion, speaking on the multiple fiber routes that Strata has built to create network redundancy. This redundancy ensures that the network remains operational in the face of failures or outages by incorporating duplicate components and alternative paths, minimizing downtime, and enhancing reliability.
A common theme among all presenters was recognition and praise for Strata employees, which now includes more than 300 individuals spread across the Uintah Basin, Cache Valley, and Utah County.
This appreciation was further emphasized in CEO/General Manager Bruce Todd’s written report stating, “Much has been accomplished this past year, none of which would be possible without our dedicated employees who have taken on new challenges and adapted in many ways this past year. The strength of the company truly does lie within our team.”
STRATA NETWORKS is the leading telecommunications provider in the Uintah Basin, providing high-speed broadband service, as well as nationwide wireless service and a TV product. Headquartered in Roosevelt, Utah, STRATA celebrates over 70 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and three decades of experience in building and operating fiber optic networks. The strength of STRATA lies within its team of more than 300 employees who are committed to providing quality work and an exceptional experience for their customers and partners. The company functions as a local cooperative, in which customers can also become member-owners of the company who may receive patronage dividends and participate in company voting processes. More information is available at www.stratanetworks.com.