Harland resigns from KCTC Board, Kuenster replacement

Ron Harland has resigned from the Kalona Cooperative Telephone Company Board of Directors, stating that he felt it was time to provide someone else with the same opportunity to serve the Cooperatives members that he has enjoyed for over 34 years. Since Ron was elected in 1978 he has worked to keep Kalona equipped with the latest in telecommunications technology. This has included three replacements of the switching equipment used to connect Kalona to the rest of the world, and the transition from copper to fiber optic cable. He helped guide the company through the unprecedented deregulation of the telephone industry in 1984 and negotiations with AT&T for a direct connection contract to provide the best service and the lowest possible rates for KCTC customers long distance service.

Major changes and many challenges would paint the landscape for years to come, as new technologies emerging in the industry promised to revolutionize the role that KCTC would play as a local service provider. The growth of the company was astounding, says Ron when asked what milestone most defined his term on the board. The construction of the current 8,000 square-foot facility, the installation of a fiber to the node network, and then all the new services that we were able to provide with our new network: Pagers, dial up internet, PCS cell phone service, DSL high-speed internet, Television and HD service have all been available in our community when other providers wouldnt service this area.

For more than three decades Ron Harland has provided invaluable leadership for KCTC and for the telecommunications industry. His consistent and resolute focus on innovation has distinguished us from our peers and he will leave some big shoes to fill for incoming board member Jeremy Kuenster.

Under the KCTC Bylaws, vacancies on the Board are filled by Board vote. Following a diligent search the Board selected Jeremy Kuenster to serve the remainder of Ron Harlands term. They felt that Jeremys business experience would be an asset to the Board and KCTCs members. Jeremy previously demonstrated his interest in serving KCTCs members by running for the Board at the 2012 annual meeting. His term of office will expire at the 2014 annual meeting.

KCTC deeply appreciates the willingness of Ron and Jeremy to share their time and knowledge to guide the company in providing the telecommunications services that are so essential for a strong community wanting to stay on the leading edge of technology and innovation.

Our community is truly lucky to have such high caliber professionals willing to dedicate their time and experience to the betterment of Kalona. If you see Ron around the community please join us in congratulating him and wishing him the very best in his future endeavors.

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Harland resigns from KCTC Board, Kuenster replacement