Guest Speakers
Tucker Billman, director of government relations for the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association (ORECA), and Ted Case, executive director of ORECA, reviewed the agenda for the upcoming 2026 legislative short session, updated the Board on ORECA’s advocacy efforts regarding issues that affect Oregon’s electric cooperatives, and thanked Salem Electric staff and the Board of Directors for their support.
Board Information
2026 Budget: The Board approved the proposed 2026 budget as presented.
Rates: The Board approved adjustments to the proposed residential and general service rate schedules effective April 1, 2026, with an overall average increase of 5.41%. The Board also approved adjustments to street lighting rates and area lighting rates, effective April 1, 2026.
Capital Credit Estate Retirements: The Board approved a discount rate of 8.04% for the 2026 budget year for the early retirement of cooperative capital credits for the estates of deceased members who are natural persons.
Board Policies: Each year the Board Policy Committee reviews 20% of board policies and makes recommendations to the full Board. After review, the Board rescinded the Power Purchases policy and approved updates to the following: Business Continuity Plan, Conservation Incentives, Repairs to Member Owned Service Equipment, Identity Theft and Red Flag Alerts, Records Management, Bylaw Review Committee Charter, and Policy Committee Charter.
General Manager’s Report
Tony Schacher shared a timeline detailing the upcoming engagement session in January, and at the Board’s direction, is putting together a request for proposal for general counsel. He also announced that a contract has been signed to purchase property in Keizer.