2023 Annual Meeting Held

Central Electric Cooperative hosted its 23rd Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 21, at the Corn Palace in Mitchell. We extend special thanks to all 325 members and their guests who attended. A three-meat buffet was served, electric vehicles were on display and kids had the chance to gear up like lineworkers. 

At the meeting, members voted to pass the recently proposed bylaw amendments. The updated bylaws are published online at www.centralec.coop.

Manager Ken Schlimgen discussed the cooperative’s goals of safety, reliability and affordability. He also shared progress on the accelerated line replacement project that’s been underway since 2018. Over the last five years, the system’s total miles of underground line increased by 347 miles, which is a positive step for enhanced reliability. 

Schlimgen also shared how the Environmental Protection Agency’s new power plant proposal would negatively affect energy reliability and affordability. Industry partners at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association are working through the challenges of the proposal at the federal level. 

Board President Duane Wolbrink recognized retiring Director Roger Campbell, who decided not to run for reelection this year. The Brule County board position has been filled by Bradee Pazour of Pukwana. She was elected by the members at the district meeting in June. 

Jill Ekstrum of Kimball and Ellen Speck of Gann Valley were recognized for their service on the Operation Round-Up board of trustees. They reached their term limits and new trustees will be appointed to fill the vacancies in Brule and Buffalo County. 

At the end of the meeting, drawings were held for youth prizes and energy bill credits.

Central Electric Cooperative’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to its member-owners. Your input is imperative to help ensure a bright future, so we thank you for attending.