We did it! Delta Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) member-owners turned out for their board member elections in record numbers last Thursday to ensure they will continue to receive top-tier service at affordable rates. We would like to congratulate all three of Western Colorado Alliance’s endorsed candidates and clean energy supporters Ryan Sedgeley (District 1), Steve Metheny (District 2), and Kevin Williams (District 5) on winning their seats on the board where they will serve a three-year term. At our Alliance, we are thrilled to see Kevin and Steve return to the board to continue their great work, and are excited that Ryan has joined them as a new board member! 

DMEA has consistently been among the best rural electric cooperatives in the state of Colorado for a reason; they have always put their member-owners first, have been forward-thinking in transitioning to cheaper, cleaner energy sources, they provide better and more services to those in their territory (such as broadband internet!), and do all of that at rates that are stable and affordable for their community. 

Beyond their top-tier service and record, DMEA has been a leader in ensuring accountability and transparency for their board. A prime example of this is that for the first time, DMEA allowed digital voting through their bill-pay portal or registered emails on top of traditional methods such as mail-in voting and participation at their annual meeting, which granted more member-owners the chance to easily participate and make their voices heard in their elections process. This resulted in a more than 50% increase in voter turnout, speaking volumes to the importance of increased voter access and how pleased DMEA member-owners are with the trajectory of the current board.

Rural electric cooperatives such as Delta Montrose Electric Association are special entities across the country that democratize our energy sources and their management, and this system only works when people like you participate. We owe a big thanks to Ryan, Steve, and Kevin for stepping up to run for these seats, and an even bigger thanks to everyone who voted to ensure a clean, resilient, and affordable energy future for Delta and Montrose County residents.