Three directors were re-elected at Hardy Telecommunications’ annual meeting on October 3 at East Hardy High School. They will serve new three-year terms.
The three directors were re-elected by acclamation. They are Gerald Smith of Baker, for Lost River serving area 1; Greg Zirk of Moorefield, for Moorefield serving area 2; and Reed Williams, for Director At-Large. All were unopposed in their bids for re-election.
During the meeting, Controller Don Whetzel, who soon will be retiring, was recognized. Accounting Manager Connie Shuman presented the financial report.
Hardy General Manager Scott Sherman said the company had enjoyed another successful financial year. He talked about the complications the company has experienced in dealing with different federal funding programs, particularly BEAD, the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program. The rules for BEAD were changed to favor low-earth-orbit satellite Internet providers like Starlink, so it has been difficult for Hardy Tel to compete for funds. He also cited that the TV networks continue to demand exorbitant price increases for Hardy to broadcast their channels.
About 450 people attended the meeting. Hardy Telecommunications thanks the EHHS Band and Band Boosters, FFA, ProStart, Band Director Colton Watts, Hardy employee Philip Miller, and EHHS staff and faculty, who prepared and served the meal featuring pork barbecue. We appreciate their hard work!