Broadband authority honors Mike Culp for transformative community connectivity efforts

In a heartfelt tribute during the Albemarle Broadband Authority's regular meeting on December 10, 2024, community members praised Mr. Culp for his unwavering dedication to improving broadband connectivity in the county. Residents expressed their frustrations with outdated copper wire systems, highlighting how Mr. Culp's efforts led to significant improvements in service and access.

One community member shared their personal journey, noting how Mr. Culp helped them transition from unreliable internet access to a stable broadband connection at home. This transformation allowed them to conduct business without the hassle of using a smartphone hotspot. The speaker emphasized that Mr. Culp's proactive approach and commitment to connecting residents with service providers were instrumental in expanding broadband access to over 20,000 additional people since the authority's inception.

As discussions continued, Mr. Culp was recognized not only for his role in the authority but also for his broader contributions to the county. His foresight and dedication were commended, with one board member stating that he had prepared the county well for his upcoming retirement. The meeting also featured expressions of gratitude from colleagues and community members, underscoring the impact of Mr. Culp's work.

In addition to the accolades, the meeting provided an opportunity for public comments, where residents shared their appreciation for the improvements in broadband services, including the recent installation of fiber connections in their neighborhoods. The atmosphere was one of celebration and acknowledgment of the progress made in enhancing connectivity across Albemarle County.

As the meeting wrapped up, the community looked forward to continuing the momentum in broadband expansion, ensuring that every property in the county would eventually have access to reliable internet service.