Ballots for the Homer Electric Association Board of Directors election were mailed to HEA members on April 1. Please don’t throw yours in the trash. Decisions made by the HEA board determine much more than our electric rates. The types and location of generation, transmission and distribution projects approved have far reaching consequences for communities, local economies and the environment. 

It’s important that we all vote for people who will represent us effectively.

HEA Members Forum participants recommend re-electing Bill Fry to his District 3 seat (Kasilof to Homer and the Kachemak Bay Area). During his first full term as a director, Bill has served HEA members well. He has proven to be conscientious and willing to do his homework to obtain a sound understanding of issues before the board. Bill is an independent thinker, but seems willing to listen and incorporate what others have to say into his deliberations.

Perhaps most important of all, he is committed to upholding the Seven Cooperative Principles which govern all rural electrical co-ops like HEA. Two of these are of particular importance to remember when you cast your vote.

Principle 2: Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting polices and making decisions. The elected representatives are accountable to the membership.

Principle 7: While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members.

Bill Fry deserves your vote for a second full term on the HEA board of directors. Mail-in ballots must be received by HEA no later than April 30. If you miss that deadline you also may vote at the annual meeting at Kenai Central High on May 1.

Mike O’Meara

Spokesman, HEA Members Forum  

(HEA Members Forum is an ad hoc group of Homer Electric Association members who support open governance of our rural power cooperative and informed member participation in setting policy and making decisions.)