Belleville company offers phone service in Metro East
By Dan Wiszkon
Suburban Journals

Metro East residents now have another choice for telephone service that could result in considerable monthly savings. Peak Communications, which Grant and Michelle Wuller of Belleville own, began offering phone service July 1. The couple also owns Peaknet and Peak Computer Systems, which also are based at 6400 W. Main St. in Belleville.

Michelle Wuller, vice president of operations at Peak Communications, said that although the new company can sign up customers across the state, the main focus is on residents and businesses in St. Clair, Madison, and Monroe counties. Wuller believes the company's local ties and commitment to customer service gives it an advantage over its larger competitors.
"When customers call us, they will get a live person to answer their questions as opposed to a machine," she said. "Customer service has always been important to us."

The Illinois Commerce Commission recently certified Peak Communications. Wuller said Peak Communications is the culmination of three years of planning and working with government at various levels. The federal government opened the doors for competition in the telephone industry with the Telecommunications Act of 1996.

"More choice is good because the consumer always wins," Wuller said noting the lower pricing and better service that usually accompanies new competition in the telephone industry.

Belleville's officials expressed support for the new phone service provider.
"We look forward to working with (Peak Communications) and applaud Peaknet for continuing to diversify the economic base of the area," said Mike Malloy, the city's director of economic development and planning.

Wuller said customers who switch from their carriers to Peak Communications will be able to keep their same telephone numbers and lines because of an interconnection lease agreement with SBC. The new company has a long-range plan of serving 10,000 customers, she said.

The average cost for residential service with Peak Communications is $22.95 per month for unlimited local calls and three special features such as call waiting, speed 6 calling, and three-way calling. The same service costs $29.95 with six features including caller ID.

"By combining local and long distance, customers will find their monthly savings are considerable," said Mark Carey, vice president for sales.

For more information about Peak Communications, visit the company's Internet site at peakcommunications.net or call the office at 618-398-9173.