October 2000

Minutes

News & Views from Your Elected Representatives

Who would have thought that a sixteen-year-old McNary High School student would be a part of the board of directors for a community business like Salem Electric? Certainly not me, but that is the honor that I have been given for this year.

     After being involved in a year-long program called Leadership Youth, through the Salem and Keizer Chambers of Commerce, I have been given the opportunity to continue that learning experience on the Salem Electric board.

     On the evening of August 22, I attended my first meeting in the board room. When I first arrived, I was nervous knowing that I was the only student in a room full of adults. However, I was quickly put at ease when several people like Terry Kelly and Danita Heuberger made me feel welcome. The agenda for the evening consisted of a variety of topics. Reports were given by Patrick Sieng about his trip to Washington, D.C. and Sandy Flicker regarding the ORECA. Updated information was also reported by each department head.

     A few other items were discussed before we adjourned.

     I am looking forward to attending the monthly Salem Electric board meetings this year. My expectation of this opportunity is that my business and community awareness will certainly be increased and carry through into the future.

          Natalie Reding    

          Leadership Youth Representative

Minutes of the Meeting Held on:

August 22, 2000

The meeting was called to order by President Nancy Horn at 7:00 p.m. All board members were present.

     Patrick Sieng, Salem Electric’s NRECA Youth Tour representative, provided an insightful report on his trip to Washington, D.C. and the opportunity to meet with other rural electric cooperative youth representatives from across the nation.

     Sandra Flicker, Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Executive Director, discussed possible agenda items affecting our cooperative to be brought before the 2001 Oregon Legislature.

     Concern was expressed by some board members regarding Senate Bill 1149, passed by the last legislature. Some felt that the bill moved us closer to deregulation, which has had a devastating impact in many states, such as California.

     Administrative Services Manager Jack Belleque announced the hiring of a new customer service representative, Jenny Knieling. He anticipated another vacancy forthcoming as one of our employees moves to Portland.

     Roger Kuhlman, Engineering and Operations Manager, noted that there had not been a reportable accident since November 1999. This speaks well of the skill and training of our engineering staff and line crew.

     General Manager Bob Speckman reported on a change in the power sales contract with the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). Contrary to what was reported last month, BPA has restudied our contract, and although we do have a 10-year guaranteed contract, they will not be able to absolutely guarantee a five-year rate without any increases.

     Natalie Reding was introduced as our Leadership Youth student representative on the board for the upcoming school year.

     The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.

Curt Culver

Secretary/Treasurer

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