We recommend voting for Randy J. Cornelius and Winnie Adams (incumbent).
OPALCO is going through rapid changes and many issues have risen to the forefront. Having hosted the recent OPALCO candidate forums and followed OPALCO closely for years, we believe Randy and Winnie are best suited to help mitigate the negative impacts of these monumental shifts in our co-op. The three primary issues to watch are:
1: The board’s approval of a rapid and unprecedented rate increase. If the board does not change direction we will see a residential base rate of $79/month by 2019.
2: Transparency of decision-making and; 3: Keeping our electric coop strong and vital as OPALCO gets into the new business of broadband.
In March, OPALCO stated on its website: “Despite real hardships across the membership, this rate structure is the right thing to do for our Co-op”.
We strongly disagree with this statement and want the board to consider a rate structure that does not unfairly burden those on fixed incomes, those who use the least electricity and those who are low-income.
We support affordable fiber internet service access in the San Juan County. If they have impacts on electricity rates, broadband-related investments must be done with full disclosure of information and participation in key important decisions by members-owners. We have been disappointed in the board’s track record in these areas lately.
Until his retirement a few months ago, Randy served as the general manager for OPALCO. He is well versed in the financial position of OPALCO, the physical infrastructure of our electrical co-op and he has a genuine passion for the members and the overall well-being of our co-op.
Winnie is currently an OPALCO board member. Her primary contribution is on conservation, renewables, and member relations. Winnie stated at a recent candidate forum, “we will have to re-examine the base rate issues”.
Please also consider voting “Yes” to the member-initiated bylaw amendment to improve the transparency and accountability of unscheduled or exclusive board meetings. Please vote in this very important election.
Eric Youngren/Orcas Island
Chom Greacen & Sandy Bishop/Lopez Island
