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The Board of Directors convened at
7:00 p.m. December 17, a week earlier than the regularly scheduled fourth
Tuesday, due to the Christmas holiday. Manager Jere Overs called attention to
the updated board meeting calendar for 1997, noting that the Annual Meeting has
been moved from May 6 to May 13 and the December meeting from December 23 to
December 16.
Engineering & Operations
Manager Roger Kuhlman advised the board that the off-peak rate for Salem
Electric's general service customers, previously in effect, is no longer
necessary as Bonneville has changed its billing procedures. The board voted in
support of this change.
Administrative Services
Manager Jack Belleque asked the board to declare forfeiture of 1971 unclaimed
capital credits. The appropriate advertising, required by law, has been
completed. The board voted unanimously to authorize the forfeiture. This
procedure is necessary to prevent the state from claiming the funds under the
escheat laws.
New business items on the
agenda gave the board an opportunity to glean the knowledge of our outgoing
General Manager Jere Overs, at this, his final board meeting (of approximately
400 meetings attended in his 29 years as manager). He left us with some food
for thought for the months and years ahead.
1. He agrees with the board's
decision regarding retail wheeling and that the directors are right in trying
to do what they can to influence the outcome down the road. He said to be
optimistic about opportunities and be aware of a menu of options. He
complimented board member Nancy Towslee on her comprehensive article on retail
wheeling in "The Board Report".
2. Overs suggested that the
board be thinking about their evaluation of, and relationship with, the new
general manager, formalizing an evaluation procedure. (The chair appointed a
subcommittee to work on a procedure.) Overs was asked for input to assist this
subcommittee. He agreed to do so.
3. Overs reminded the board
that the biggest problems the cooperative has had over the years have been with
the Bonneville Power Administration, such as getting involved with WPPSS. On a
positive note, he said the cooperative has faced many obstacles over the years
and will continue to do so and survive. Overs also remarked that he will
continue to receive all industry-related material and will stay up-to-date on
the issues.
On January 1, Bob Speckman
will assume the duties of general manager. He said, having worked with Overs
for the past 15 years he plans to use the assets of Overs' knowledge and
connections. Director Koho wanted it known that he is thrilled to have Speckman
on board as the new manager. The board concurred.
The board scheduled a luncheon
meeting with Senator Gene Derfler on December 20 to review the electrical
industry concerns regarding retail wheeling, with views from both sides of the
table.
The December meeting adjourned
at 7:47 p.m.
--
Alicia Bonesteele, Secretary/Treasurer
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