Murray Electric System (MES) has been a cornerstone of the City of Murray, Kentucky, since its establishment in 1942, consistently providing reliable electric power to the community. Over the decades, MES has expanded its services beyond electricity to include cable television, high-speed internet, and telephone services, positioning itself as a multifaceted utility provider.
In the mid-1990s, MES embarked on a significant venture to enhance local telecommunications. Dissatisfaction with the existing cable TV provider prompted city officials to explore alternatives. In 1996, during Tony Thompson’s candidacy for the role of general manager, he was tasked with the challenge of developing a municipal broadband service. Despite facing opposition from private internet and cable service providers, MES proceeded with the project, issuing revenue bonds to finance the construction of a hybrid fiber/coaxial network. By 2000, MES began offering broadband services to its customers, becoming a pioneer in bundling electricity with cable TV and high-speed internet services.
This expansion into telecommunications not only diversified MES’s service offerings but also strengthened its electric services. The integration of fiber optics facilitated advanced monitoring and management of the electric grid, enhancing reliability and operational efficiency. Today, MES continues to serve the Murray community with a comprehensive suite of utilities, reflecting its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
In the mid-1990s, MES embarked on a significant venture to enhance local telecommunications. Dissatisfaction with the existing cable TV provider prompted city officials to explore alternatives. In 1996, during Tony Thompson’s candidacy for the role of general manager, he was tasked with the challenge of developing a municipal broadband service. Despite facing opposition from private internet and cable service providers, MES proceeded with the project, issuing revenue bonds to finance the construction of a hybrid fiber/coaxial network. By 2000, MES began offering broadband services to its customers, becoming a pioneer in bundling electricity with cable TV and high-speed internet services.
This expansion into telecommunications not only diversified MES’s service offerings but also strengthened its electric services. The integration of fiber optics facilitated advanced monitoring and management of the electric grid, enhancing reliability and operational efficiency. Today, MES continues to serve the Murray community with a comprehensive suite of utilities, reflecting its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
