Next came a presentation by Sandie Pattison,
Victim Offender Reconciliation Program (VORP). She provided an interesting and
compelling description of the program. She said that 85% of the program deals
with juveniles that are referred from the criminal justice system in Polk
County. The program works through mediators which assist the juvenile and the
victim to work together for solutions. She said that last year the mediators
were able to arrange $7,000 in restitution to victims. She also presented
copies of letters attesting to the programs success from prior victims and from
juveniles. They feel that they can raise $900 of the $1,800 they anticipate as
their need. Salem Electric was asked for the remainder. Again the Board felt
the need was compelling and voted unanimously to approve a donation of $900. There was some discussion after the
presenters left as to defining our policy on donations more specifically. Nancy
Towslee said she and the policy review committee will consider updating the
policy. Jeff Pearson of Coopers & Lybrand made
an audit presentation. He said the financial records are in good standing and
that we had a strong and successful year. He handed out a 5-year comparison
analysis and noted that Salem Electric has very strong comparative ratios.
Director Koho pointed out that Salem Electric serves more customers than some
of the comparative utilities and does it with fewer employees. He noted that
this speaks very highly of staff. The Annual Meeting on May 13 was discussed.
Peter Courtney had confirmed that he would be the speaker. The Board hoped many
members would come out for the evening and take part in the Annual Meeting. | Board Reports |
June 1997
Salem
Electric and the Board stand in strong support of the community we serve. This
was again evident when the Board considered two requests from community service
organizations. First to present a request for financial assistance was Debra
Garvey, Resource Development Director for the Boys and Girls Club. She gave a
very informative overview of the work the Boys and Girls Club is doing in the
Salem and Keizer area. They serve approximately 900 kids per day. Their request
was for $917.20 for a part-time person and books to add an 8-week
reading/recognition program. The Board gladly approved the request. The program
will be known as the "Salem Electric Summer Reading Program."-- Jim
Dyer, President
