Strata Networks held its 72nd Annual Meeting on June 5th, which showcased efforts made to expand connectivity throughout the Uintah Basin as well as new ventures to diversify the company and bring new success. During the meeting, it was announced that the following Board of Directors were elected to serve a three-year term: Ashley Shiner, Altamont District; Bart Miller, Neola District; and Richard Ross, Roosevelt District.
The meeting featured presentations from several key employees and members of the Board of Directors. Secretary/Treasurer Dana Shepard presented a financial overview, celebrating improved profitability and increased revenue in 2024—with nearly 35% resulting from projects in new markets. Shepard emphasized the impact of these financial successes, which ultimately allow the company to support the local community through job creation, donations, scholarship programs, fundraisers, and more.
This same sentiment was echoed by Board President Ashley Shiner who recognized the value of Strata’s partnerships with Lehi & Providence cities to build and operate municipal fiber networks.
“These partnerships don’t just provide essential services to communities—they bring substantial revenue back into our region, keeping our dollars working for our neighbors and our communities here locally,” Shiner said. “When we invest in municipal broadband networks, emergency communication systems, and digital infrastructure projects, we’re not just building networks—we’re building the economic foundation that allows our Basin to compete and prosper in an increasingly connected world.”
During Manager Bruce Todd’s report, members heard from several Strata employees who shared details on many aspects of the cooperative, including business development efforts and diversification strategies, which included several subsidiary companies that were highlighted. Members also learned of the regulatory challenges and opportunities that affect the telecommunications industry. The cooperative is actively engaged in funding opportunities like the Broadband Equity and Deployment (BEAD) program, which aims to make broadband more accessible to underserved areas.
Among the updates shared was an exciting effort underway to accelerate the availability of high-speed internet through next-generation fixed wireless technology. According to Manager Todd’s written report, the company launched the service in late 2024, “delivering up to 15x faster speeds – with the potential for even more – to approximately 1,200 customers in just the last eight months.” The report further states that the company’s rollout of this technology will focus initially on areas of the biggest need, while continuing to focus on expanding its fiber network simultaneously, which now consists of more than 16,500 locations.
It was also announced that the cooperative plans to discontinue its StrataTV service in August of 2025 due to increasing costs to deliver the service and offer it affordably to members. Strata assures customers that they are available to help with the transition and invites customers to contact (435) 622-5007 to discuss the options available after the service is no longer offered.
