There are several ways to become more involved with your local cooperative. One of those ways is by volunteering for committees. Here we explore what committees are used at the cooperative, their details, and how to sign up!
Board of Directors
Who is on the board?
The board of directors is made up of nine cooperative members: one from each of the nine cooperative districts.
What does a director do?
A director represents all members of Dunn Energy Cooperative and is responsible for approving general policies, annual budgets, special contracts, capital credit retirements, bylaw amendment changes, rate schedules and delegating authority to the General Manager to execute and carry out the daily activities of the Cooperative.
When does the board meet?
The board of directors meets the last Monday of each month with meetings beginning at 9 a.m. and regularly lasting until Noon. Directors also attend occasional regional and national meetings, as well as educational seminars.
Is there any compensation?
Directors are paid a per diem for each meeting attended as well as IRS-approved mileage.
What is the time commitment?
From monthly board meetings, DECs Annual Meeting, training, and member events to workshops and travel the typical time commitment for board members is approximately 24-30 days/evenings per year.
If you are interested in running for the board of directors, please email info@dunnenergy.com and we will remind you to contact your nominating committee member when your district comes up for election.
Nomination & Election Committee
Each year the Cooperative has an Annual Meeting of Members where an election of three directors takes place. In order for this election to take place, a group of nine active members is chosen; one person from each district to sit on the Nomination & Elections Committee. The committee members from the three districts up for election are tasked with finding at least two nominees for the ballots. This group is also in charge of counting the ballots the day before the Annual Meeting, as well as the day of the meeting. Involved members are paid a $50 per diem plus mileage at the IRS tax rate (round-trip from their home to the Cooperative office). If you are interested in serving on this committee, you can email Jolene at jolene@dunnenergy.com and she will put you on a list of potential committee members.
Operation Round Up
Operation Round Up is a grant program funded by members who round their electric bill up to the nearest whole dollar and donate that extra change. This change may not seem like a lot; the average member donated between $6-$12 per year. However, when 7,000+ members all donate that much it can make a large impact in our local community.
The funds for Operation Round Up are awarded by a group of members who meet once per quarter. They meet over lunch at the cooperative office and make decisions based on how much money is available, applicant needs, and other various factors. If you are interested in being a part of the committee, feel free to fill out the application and email it to Jolene at jolene@dunnenergy.com and she will put you on a waiting list for when positions become open.
Arbitration Committee
Members of the Cooperative serve a maximum of 6 years on this committee in 3-year terms. This committee works with the Cooperative's legal counsel to select an arbitrator should one need to be selected to resolve a legal issue with the Cooperative. Currently, there are no open seats on this committee, if you are interested in serving in the future please contact the Cooperative General Manager/CEO Jesse Singerhouse at 715-232-6240.
Voices for Cooperative Power
Voices for Cooperative Power is a network of electric co-op members working together to influence electric officials who are making energy policy decisions that impact co-ops and, by extension, their way of life. America’s energy system is going through a fundamental transformation – and much of the focus in Washington is on large utilities in urban areas. Electric co-ops are fundamentally different. Speaking up on issues that impact electric co-ops sends a message to elected officials about the needs of our communities – and their constituencies.
To find more information on Voices for Cooperative Power visit https://voicesforcooperativepower.com
