Planned acquisition unites two rural broadband providers committed to local service and long-term community investment.
West Liberty, Iowa (November 3, 2026) – Liberty Communications, a family-owned rural broadband provider, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by OmniTel Communications, a rural broadband provider with a shared commitment to reliable service and local relationships.
This agreement marks an important milestone in Liberty Communications’ history and reflects a shared vision for the future of rural broadband in the state of Iowa. By joining OmniTel, Liberty looks to build on the foundation established through generations of family ownership while positioning the business to meet the evolving needs of customers, employees and the communities it serves.
As the broadband industry continues to evolve, the agreement with OmniTel represents an opportunity to build on Liberty’s legacy with additional resources, experience and capabilities to support long-term growth, network investment and continued service excellence.
Honoring a Family Legacy While Looking Ahead
Liberty Communications’ legacy reflects generations of family leadership, dedicated employees and the trust of the communities it serves. The decision to pursue this agreement was made with that legacy and the company’s future in mind.
OmniTel shares Liberty’s understanding of the important role rural broadband providers play in the communities they serve. Both companies recognize that reliable connectivity is essential to local businesses, schools, healthcare providers, families, farmers, and the long-term vitality of rural Iowa.
A Continued Commitment to Employees and Customers
Employees have been central to Liberty’s success, and their experience, knowledge and dedication will be important for future success. Liberty and OmniTel intend to approach the transition thoughtfully, with an emphasis on clear communication and respect for employees.
Liberty Communications remains committed to providing the same responsive, reliable service and personal attention that have defined its customer relationships over the years. The agreement is intended to create opportunities for continued investment and innovation while building on the local knowledge and community connections.
“Our family has always believed Liberty’s strength comes from its employees and the communities we serve. That belief has guided our decisions for generations, and it guided us in considering the future,” said Jerry Melick, President, Liberty Communications. “ This agreement is about honoring where we’ve come from while creating new opportunities for our employees, our customers and the communities that have supported us for so many years.”
Next Steps
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals. Until closing, the companies will continue to operate as separate businesses.
“Liberty Communications has deep community roots, longstanding customer relationships and dedicated employees,” said Josh Hveem, President and CEO, OmniTel Communications. “We value those strengths and see an opportunity to build on them through our combined experience and resources.”
About Liberty Communications
Founded in 1908, Liberty Communications is a family-owned, independent telecommunications company providing fiber and fixed wireless internet, telephone services, and connectivity solutions to communities across eastern and southeastern Iowa. With deep local roots and a commitment to customer service, Liberty Communications connects homes, farms, and businesses with reliable technology backed by local people who know the communities they serve.
About OmniTel Communications
Founded in 1904, OmniTel Communications is an Iowa-owned and operated communications company headquartered in Nora Springs, Iowa, serving more than 35 communities throughout north central, south central, and southwest Iowa. Combining more than a century of experience with a commitment to innovation, OmniTel delivers advanced communications solutions through its state-of-the-art, 100% fiber-optic, multi-gigabit network. With global connectivity and a focus on providing reliable, high-performance, and cost-effective services, OmniTel offers a comprehensive range of solutions, including broadband internet, digital voice, and video services. For more information, visit OmniTel.biz.