There is no need to choose a host with the fastest ticket response time, but choose one who you feel you communicate well with.
Check out GTHost.com Seattle servers - Other web hosts could learn a bit from them on pricing, technology and excellent customer service.
Try considering Hostnamaste.com budget server hosting. The features look really great. I am glad to deal with them.
They offer 1 hour response guarantee, but I can say that they reply in 10 minutes after support ticket sent.