Growth Fund Announces Arrowhead Propane as Strategic Supplier

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – In early 2023, the Southern Ute Tribal Council became aware of instances where propane fuel suppliers had failed to make timely deliveries, leaving Tribal Members without reliable and consistent heat during the winter months, in some cases for extended periods of time. Tribal Council requested the Growth Fund’s assistance to evaluate and propose options for improved reliability of propane delivery to Tribal Members.

To assess Tribal Members’ experiences, the Growth Fund partnered with Tribal Information Services to conduct a survey, which was released in July 2023 on the Tribal Member Portal and paper surveys were mailed to Tribal elders for inclusion of all voices.

The results of the survey indicated a significant difference between the suppliers in the area. The overall conclusion is that four of the six suppliers were the most prominent. Two national suppliers, which provide service to many survey respondents, were given an average customer satisfaction rating, while two of regional suppliers scored very high in customer satisfaction. After further consultation, one highly rated regional supplier offered the Tribe and its Members a beneficial rate without additional conditions. The survey summary data is available on the Tribal Member Portal.

Concurrently with the Tribal Member survey, the Growth Fund completed an assessment of area suppliers as well as evaluated developing its own propane supply company. However, the challenges associated with market pricing, cost, safety, infrastructure, and timing on execution outweighed the potential benefits and could result in higher costs to Tribal Members. Following a comprehensive review of the survey and assessment results, the Growth Fund Management Committee recommended that Tribal Council name Arrowhead Propane as a strategic supplier.

Arrowhead Propane will extend favorable pricing on both tank rental and propane fuel to enrolled Tribal Members. Tribal Council recommends Tribal Members choose a propane supplier that meets their own needs, and there is no requirement to use the strategic supplier or change suppliers.

“Safety is our greatest consideration and elimination of supply disruption is our top priority,” said Chairman Melvin J. Baker. “Arrowhead’s outstanding customer service ratings and favorable pricing will bring improved service and savings to our Membership. However, this is an individual choice, and only an option, we encourage Tribal Members to make the decision that is right for them and their home.”

Mike Helms, General Manager of Arrowhead Propane, commented, “Arrowhead Propane is pleased to offer beneficial pricing to Southern Ute Tribal Members. We are proud of the service we provide and enjoy working with several members of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe today. Safety is our first priority, but excellent customer service is a close second, and Arrowhead has equipment and capacity to meet the needs of new Southern Ute customers.”

Running out of propane during cold winter months can create potentially dangerous situations, so it is imperative to communicate regularly with your propane supplier for options to best suit your heating needs. For additional information please contact, Mr. Meade Harbison with the Growth Fund Business Development at 970-563-5037. To contact Arrowhead Propane, please find them at https://arrowheadpropaneco.com or at 970-422-5280.

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-Summer Begay, Communications Specialist.