Working Toward Fiber-to-the-Home Service
Dear Members,
Beginning in January, we are increasing prices for our internet services. Prices for fixed wireless and fiber offerings will increase by $5 a month.
This is the first price increase for internet members since we began providing service more than 15 years ago. It is necessary both as a result of increasing costs to provide services and to support the buildout of a fiber-to-the-home network throughout our community, which will provide all members with better internet service.
This change was evaluated carefully the past few years. In 2019, we surveyed members and asked if the co-op should raise prices for internet service to build fiber to the home. Of the respondents who had an opinion on the matter, 77% said yes.
Since that survey, we have developed a project plan, completed a pilot project for a fiber-to-the-home build in the Trout Creek Ridge area, and begun the process of upgrading and adding to our core network equipment. We have also started to build fiber in some areas.
The fiber-to-the-home build may take several years to complete. Rest assured, we will work diligently to complete it efficiently. One of our biggest challenges is materials. With similar builds going on across the United States and significant supply chain disruptions as a result of the pandemic and other factors, lead times for some items are now measured in months or years instead of weeks.
We know many of you would like to be the next member connected to fiber. We appreciate your patience as we work through the process of getting this build completed. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you.
Libby Calnon
General Manager