I agree with Susan Mead (Journal, Sept. 5) that individuals should always check their bills – whether from Empire or an investor-owned electric company. This holds true for any bill we receive, from medical to grocery stores, because mistakes happen and it is our responsibility to manage our own resources.
However, there appears to be several misconceptions or misunderstandings that Ms. Mead presents in her letter that I wish to address. There appears to be a lack of understanding of how a co-op works and how valuable an asset Empire Electric is to Southwest Colorado and Southeast Utah.
First, co-ops (and the companies that provide service to them) are regulated by various agencies on rates, environmental issues, renewable energy mandates, worker’s safety standards and even where the co-ops may purchase the power for its members.
Second, as Empire Electric is a co-op, then each consumer is a member and has a vote in the running of the co-op by electing a board member. In addition, each member has the opportunity, no, the responsibility, to attend the annual business meeting and participate to find out what changes are occurring and how they can positively or negatively impact the pocketbook. Did Ms. Mead even approach her duly elected board member to discuss the problems she had with her bill?
Third, Empire Electric member services has historically helped the members identify high energy use sources and offered suggestions to improve conservation which for those on limited or lower income is a valuable benefit. Did Ms. Mead avail herself of this free service, or just ignore common sense and complain?
As a member of electrical cooperatives for many decades, and of Empire for seventeen years, I find that a cooperative is far more responsive to complaints and far more likely to resolve issues than either government regulatory agencies or investor-owned (or government-owned) utilities.
All members should educate themselves and take responsibility to resolve problems.
Deborah A. Barton
Mancos
