Keeping you in the know
Executive V.P./CEO
People can disagree on just about anything these days, but one thing most people tend to agree on is the fact that more transparency is better. Whether it’s our local government or a company we do business with, understanding why and how decisions are being made helps us make more informed decisions ourselves.
That’s one of the many strengths of the cooperative model. Because cooperatives were born out of communities to serve those communities, we don’t answer to a far-flung group of investors. We answer to our members right here in the Suwannee Valley.
One of the seven core principles that guide all cooperatives is informing members like you so that you can understand what is happening at your cooperative and why. It’s the reason we include this newsletter with your bill each month, so members can learn how their cooperative works and about the people running it.
This month's newsletter is a little different than usual. It doubles as Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative’s annual report to you, the members.
Inside you’ll find the cooperative’s balance sheets, along with the minutes of last year’s annual meeting. I think these show that SVEC continues to be on a strong financial footing and is making plans that will enable us to continue providing affordable and reliable service well into the future.
The cooperative also continues its dedication to working safely and supporting our local community. You can find a summary of just a few of our employees’ safety accomplishments over the last year, as well as a list of contributions SVEC and its employees have made to community organizations.
We were also proud to continue important initiatives like the Youth Tour and college scholarships that prepare the future leaders of our communities.
All in all, 2018 was another strong year for SVEC, and I know I speak for everyone at the cooperative when I say it has been an honor to serve you. That’s why I would also like to take a moment to encourage each of you to attend our annual meeting on Saturday, April 27. In addition to giving you the opportunity to learn more about what is happening at your cooperative, the annual meeting is also an opportunity to receive a $10 bill credit and a chance to have fun with your neighbors and win prizes.
I hope all of you will make some time to join us in celebrating another wonderful year of our electric cooperative, and I can’t wait to share our plans for the year ahead. I look forward to seeing all of you there!