ECE Annual Meeting showcases "The Cooperative Difference"

East Central Energy (ECE) members saw "The Cooperative Difference" in action when they attended the 74th annual meeting on Saturday, April 10 at Cambridge-Isanti High School in Cambridge, MN.

ECE staff greeted more than 700 members, families and friends as they arrived for the complimentary pancake breakfast.  The lobby was the hub of action, as members enjoyed visiting with ECE employees and had prize opportunities at several of the booths.  Each department emphasized the co-op's focus on members and the resources available to them.

In his last report to the membership before his retirement later this year, President/CEO Garry Bye described "The Cooperative Difference" as a responsive, values-centered approach that puts members first in every aspect of the business.  He attributed ECE's fiscal sucess to the vigilance of its directors, members and employees, who work as partners to make prudent, yet progressive, decisions. He thanked the members for the opportunity to serve their co-op for nearly 25 years.

Board representative terms were up for election in three districts.  The incumbent directors for these districts were the only candidates by membership petition.  Therefore, voting by ballot was not necessary.   Diane Zimmerman, district 1, John A. Jackson, district 3, and Robert Kaeter, district 6, will retain their positions for another four-year term. 

Youngsters were thrilled with the bucket truck rides as part of this year's annual meeting fun, and adults tried their luck at bingo.  Winners received prizes with an energy-efficient twist, such as fans, microwave cookware, LED emergency flashlights and slow cookers. Members attending the business meeting received Kill A Watt meters to measure electricity used by various appliances in their homes and discover where energy savings are possible.