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Monday was his last day with Qwest Communications.
Stoltman was faced with the choice between cutting back on time devoted to his commissioner’s duties or quitting Qwest, a company where he has worked for 37 years.
He chose the county.
“Qwest changed its policy about allowing you to be involved in politics. It is not as flexible,” he said.
A Qwest spokesperson declined to comment One month ago, Stoltman was suspended one day for ignoring the new policy and attending county meetings not approved by Qwest. After meeting with a manager, his pay was restored, but it got him thinking about forming his own business, he said.
Today, Stoltman will open Unique Communications, a one-call center at 128 W. Second St. to help solve everyone’s communication problems, Stoltman said. He and his wife, Judy, will be the first employees.
“I’m just thrilled to be on my own,” Stoltman said. “I’m going to settle a need I’ve heard from people for years. Who do I call? Since the divestiture of AT&T, there are a lot of people who don’t know who to call for services.”
Stoltman says he will have direct lines into all of the communications companies to set up services or troubleshoot a problem.
In addition, Unique Communications will set up a television or entertainment center, an Internet connection and low-voltage devices such as doorbells, video equipment and alarms.
“There’s got to be one place for everything. I will partner with local vendors, but I will be the one to take responsibility to make sure it’s done,” he said.
The company’s phone number is (507) 452-7402.
Contact reporter David Krotz at dkrotz@winonadailynews.com or call (507) 453-3524.
