Manager's Message: Planning for the Future
By Ken Schlimgen
General Manager
There is an old quote that says, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” In a recent issue, I mentioned that every 4-5 years, your cooperative prepares a new construction work plan. We have recently completed the plan which encompasses the next 4 years of anticipated replacement and construction of our electric distribution system.
The plan involves an in-depth engineering study that was completed by STAR Engineering to help identify where Central Electric should make improvements to the distribution system. The plan is then reviewed by your board of directors and the USDA Rural Utilities Service (RUS).
RUS requires Central Electric to develop a construction work plan. This ensures that the distribution system will meet the requirements for reliability and allow for future growth. It also provides access to low-interest loan funds to make improvements and additions to our system more affordable.
The projects in the construction work plan are estimated to cost $35 million over the next four years. These projects have been carefully analyzed to make sure that we are making the best use of our money. Safety, reliability and affordability influence every decision we make. This is the largest dollar amount for a construction work plan in Central Electric’s history. Much of the higher costs are driven by inflation and increased requests for new services.
In this issue, you will read about our employee participation in training sessions led by safety experts from the South Dakota Rural Electric Association (SDREA). SDREA is tasked with educating our employees on every safety topic from defensive driving to CPR and first aid, to working safely around “live” high-voltage systems. In addition to monthly training, our employees conduct regular truck and tool inspections, and daily “tailgate” sessions.
Central Electric also works to raise awareness of electrical safety in our communities by performing demonstrations at local schools and community events. There, we show members and youth just how easily an accident can occur when working with electricity and how to prevent mishaps that could be dangerous, and sometimes deadly. We increase awareness of electrical safety by engaging with volunteer fire departments, emergency medical teams and sheriff’s departments on a regular basis, offering educational courses and demonstrations. These programs keep our community safe.
Please take the time to be aware of your surroundings. Take notice of where that overhead line is located when moving large machinery or installing that new grain bin. Call to have underground facilities located before you dig. Be aware of where the meter, transformers, and boxes are located. We don’t want them to be an obstacle when moving snow or when driving around the yard. Taking a little extra time will prevent an accident that could affect your pocketbook or permanently change life as you know it.
November is a time when we and our nation give thanks. We recognize Veterans on November 11 and celebrate Thanksgiving on November 23. I would like to say thank you to those who protected our freedom by serving our country and now continue to serve our communities.
On a personal note, my coworkers and I want to say thanks to each of our members for the countless acts of kindness we receive throughout the year. We are thankful for your patience on the rare occasion when we are restoring your electric service and for your support all year long.
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving, and until next month – be safe.