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Year: 2025

SECO Energy District 4 Trustee Earns NRECA National Leadership Credentials

SECO Energy Trustee James LaMotte has earned both the Board Leadership Certificate and Director Gold Credentials from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Trustee LaMotte represents members who reside in District 4 – in Marion County – one of the not-for-profit electric cooperatives’ fastest growing areas. 

 

The Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) is awarded to Trustees who complete a rigorous series of advanced courses focusing on key issues such as cooperative governance, financial oversight, strategic planning, and the challenges impacting the energy industry. Building on the BLC, the Director Gold Credential is the highest level of accreditation earned by Trustees through the NRECA. Once Director Gold status is earned, Trustees must attend continuing education classes in order to keep their knowledge and skills sharp and maintain Director Gold status. 

 

“Trustee education is a key component to SECO Energy’s success,” said SECO Energy’s Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn. “The SECO Energy Board of Trustees has made it a priority to further their Trustee-level education to better govern the cooperative. I am thankful to Trustee LaMotte for his commitment to expanding his knowledge and leadership skills to serve our membership.” 

 

“Congratulations to Trustee LaMotte on earning both his Board Leadership and Director Gold certifications,” said Board President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson. “These certifications require Trustees to complete a roster of college-level coursework – SECO’s Board has invested hundreds of hours to advancing their education. I continue to be impressed by their willingness to serve and dedication to our members.”    

 

“I continue to be thankful for this unique opportunity to serve my community through my service on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees,” said Trustee LaMotte. “My goal is to continue to increase my knowledge of the energy industry, remain responsive to SECO members, and assist in leading the cooperative to future success through our Board oversight.”  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that is operated for and owned by the members it serves. SECO Energy’s 2,100-square-mile service area is divided into nine geographic Districts. Trustees are democratically elected by the members who reside in each District. As SECO Energy’s governing body, the Board of Trustees provides oversight and plays an essential role in policy-making decisions. To learn more about SECO Energy’s Board, visit our Board of Trustees page. 

SECO Energy Corporate Communications Wins National Spotlight on Excellence Award

SECO Energy Multimedia Supervisor Bryan Wooley, Director of Corporate Communications Amanda Richardson and CEO Curtis Wynn

SECO Energy is proud to announce that its corporate communications team has earned national recognition by winning Gold in the Best Social Media Post – Classification 3 (for distribution cooperatives with more than 65,000 meters) category at the 2025 Spotlight on Excellence Awards. Presented by the Council of Rural Electric Communicators and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, this prestigious award celebrates top-tier communication excellence among electric cooperatives nationwide. 

 

The award-winning social media post featured a powerful video message from SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn. Released in the critical hours ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall, the message urged members to prepare for the storm and highlighted SECO’s comprehensive readiness efforts. The video project, led by Director of Corporate Communications Amanda Richardson and Multimedia Supervisor Bryan Wooley, received praise for its clarity, urgency, and strong commitment to member safety. 

 

“We are honored to be recognized for work that directly supports and protects our members,” said Wynn, SECO Energy CEO. “Communication is just as vital as power restoration during a potential crisis, and this award validates our team’s dedication to excellence.” 

 

Hurricane Milton struck SECO’s 2,100-square-mile service area as a powerful Category 3 storm, leaving over 100,000 members without power. Throughout the storm and the restoration process, SECO’s communications team kept members informed with timely updates through StormCenter, social media, and SECOEnergy.com. Restoration efforts were nearly complete within days, with power safely and swiftly restored to more than 99% of affected members – even in hazardous conditions. 

 

The Spotlight on Excellence Awards honors the innovation and impact of cooperative communicators. Winners, like SECO Energy, exemplify best-in-class strategies across platforms and reinforce the value of effective communication, especially during emergencies.

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X (formerly Twitter) for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.  

SECO Energy CEO Inspires LSSC Graduates with Powerful Commencement Speech

 

LSSC’s Interim President Dr. Laura Byrd presents SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn with the prestigious Lakehawk Award following his 2025 commencement address.

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn delivered a powerful message of perseverance and purpose to the graduating class of 2025 at Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) on Friday, May 9. In his heartfelt commencement speech, Wynn urged the graduates to embrace challenges, lead with intention, and not be afraid to take that first courageous step toward their future. Following the address, Wynn was honored with the 2025 LSSC Lakehawk Award in recognition of his impactful speech.

 

In his keynote, Wynn shared his journey from humble beginnings in Graceville, Florida, to becoming the first African American CEO of an electric cooperative in the United States and a nationally recognized leader in rural innovation and energy equity.

 

Speaking to an audience of faculty, families, and graduates, Wynn reminisced on his upbringing in a home that lacked modern conveniences. He spoke of the grit of his parents, and the resilience that propelled him from washing trucks at a rural electric cooperative to testifying before Congress.

 

“You are not just graduating, you’re breaking barriers, changing legacies and opening doors that others in your family may never have imagined,” Wynn said, connecting his own path to that of the many first-generation college graduates in the audience.

 

Wynn stressed the importance of seizing opportunities, sharing his own rise from truck washer to CEO, and emphasized the critical need for a new generation to enter the energy sector workforce. He specifically pointed to the college’s lineworker training program as an example of shaping a strong, skilled future workforce.

 

Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy, delivers the 2025 commencement address at Lake-Sumter State College’s Leesburg campus graduation ceremony.

SECO Energy is proud to partner with Lake-Sumter State College to power possibilities — for our students, for our communities, and for our future workforce,” said Wynn. “There are thousands of high-paying, purpose-driven careers in the energy industry waiting for graduates just like you.”

 

In his closing message to the class of 2025, Wynn urged them to lead with purpose. “Your background does not define your future — your perseverance does.” The speech was met with enthusiastic applause, confirming SECO Energy’s commitment to community, education, and economic opportunity across Central Florida.

 

As SECO Energy continues to invest in workforce development, SECO Energy encourages local students to consider careers in the energy industry. To learn more about career opportunities, visit SECOEnergy.com> Your Co-Op > Careers.

SECO News May 2025

Wynn's Wire

 

Reliability Through Strong Partnerships

 

DEAR MEMBER,

 

At SECO Energy, we’re proud to serve over 250,000 homes and businesses across Central Florida with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity. But did you know that the electricity flowing through SECO’s lines begins its journey at a partner cooperative that we help govern and support? 

 

That partner is Seminole Electric Cooperative, one of the largest generation and transmission (G&T) cooperatives in the nation. SECO Energy is one of nine member-owner cooperatives of Seminole. This means we don’t just buy power from Seminole — we’re part owners. We help guide their strategy, invest in their future, and work together to ensure our members receive safe, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible energy. 

 

How does it all work? Seminole generates electricity using a diverse portfolio of resources, including natural gas, coal, renewable energy, and purchased power. From its state-of-the-art Seminole Generating Station in Palatka to renewable solar partnerships across the state, Seminole plays a critical role in balancing reliability with environmental stewardship. Once that power is generated, Seminole ensures that it is transmitted to SECO’s substations, where we take over and deliver it directly to your home or business. 

 

This partnership is more than a business arrangement — it’s a cooperative bond built on shared values and a common mission to serve our members. Having a strong, transparent relationship with Seminole Electric Cooperative ensures that SECO has a voice in major energy decisions, access to long-term, affordable power supply contracts, and the ability to plan effectively for the future as energy technologies and consumer needs continue to evolve. 

 

Thanks in part to this reliable supply of power and the strength of our local distribution system, SECO Energy has earned industry-leading reliability scores year after year. We consistently outperform national benchmarks in key reliability metrics like System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI), System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) — meaning SECO members experience fewer outages and shorter durations when outages do occur. And when the lights go out, our crews respond with unmatched speed and professionalism to restore power quickly and safely. 

 

Thank you for trusting SECO Energy to power your homes, your businesses, and your lives. We don’t take your trust for granted — and we will continue to work with great partners like Seminole Electric Cooperative to keep the power flowing, the lights on, and our service strong. 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

May is National Electrical Safety Month. Safety is SECO’s top core value, and members and communities are encouraged to work and play safely around electricity. Seniors and children are at greatest risk of suffering injury or death from a home electrical fire, making awareness and prevention especially important.

 

Electrical energy is inherently dangerous. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (EFSI), over 51,000 homes are damaged or destroyed due to electrical fires each year and cause over 500 deaths and 1,400 injuries, along with $1.3 billion in property damage.

 

Knowing the basics of your home’s electrical system is one of the best ways to prevent electrical fires. Outdated wiring and overloaded circuits – especially common in older homes – are among the leading causes of electrical fires. Warning signs may include flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, and a burning smell near outlets or switches. These could indicate that your home’s electrical wiring and outlets may need to be updated.

 

If you suspect your home’s wiring needs an update, hire a licensed and insured electrician. Electrical repairs are not a DIY project. A professional can safely inspect your system and, if needed, add outlets or upgrade your electrical panel to reduce the risk of overloaded circuits.

 

Stay safe around utility equipment. Never touch or play around utility equipment such as padmount transformers (big green electric boxes) or overhead power lines. If you see a power line on the ground, stay away; it may still be energized and dangerous. Touching power lines can kill you. After a storm, be alert for fallen wires – call 911 to report these immediately.

 

Vehicle crashes involving power poles can result in energized lines near the accident. If it’s safe, remain in the vehicle until first responders confirm it’s clear to exit.

 

 

 

A recent comprehensive cost-of-service study – which included a routine analysis of plant facilities, expenses, financial forecast, and revenue requirement – found that the current rate structure needs to be updated to align with SECO’s growing membership and rising operational expenses. As a result, effective May 1, residential kilowatt hour (kWh) rates will increase by an average of 9.17%. On October 1, the second phase of the area light pole rental fee adjustment will take effect. This will impact members affiliated with a homeowners’ association (HOA) or property owners’ association (POA), developers, and city and county governments. The second phase of the pole rental fee increase has been reduced following an updated cost analysis and operational changes.

 

For details, visit SECOEnergy.com/Newsroom.

 

 

 

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025! SECO Energy is funding $36,000 in scholarships to 12 local high school seniors to help them begin their journey as they pursue higher education.

SECO Energy’s 2025 Youth Scholarship Awardees are:

 

Cayman Azis, Celebration High School – Marine Biology and Ecology

 

Abigail Colon, West Port High School – Animal Science

 

Cedrick Gener, Citrus High School – Electrical Engineering

 

Maria Leon-Salazar, Real Life Christian Academy – Mechanical Engineering

 

Suhani Nihalani, Vanguard High School – Biomedical Engineering

 

Isabelle Raistrick, West Port High School – Nursing

 

Charles Randall, Foundation Academy – Nuclear Engineering

 

Peyton Ressler, The Villages Charter High School – Political Science

 

Jonathan Rodriguez, Lake County Home School – Mechanical Engineering

 

Mittie Thomas-O’Brien, Umatilla High School – Health Services Administration

 

Zachary Townsend, Belleview High School – Constructional Engineering

 

Leslie Zavala-Guillen, South Sumter High School – Medicine

 

SECO Energy proudly recognizes these student scholars for their determination, hard work, and scholastic and personal achievements. Congratulations, students, you are on your way to meeting your education and career goals!

 

 

 

The SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected its Officers for 2025. Board President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson was re-elected to serve a fourth consecutive term. District 9 Trustee and Board Secretary/Treasurer Morgan Hatfield was elected to serve her first term as Board Vice President. District 2 Trustee Joyce Anderson was elected to serve as the Secretary/Treasurer – a role she previously held between 2022 and 2023.

 

SECO Energy’s Trustees serve as the governing body of your cooperative. One of the Seven Cooperative Principles, Democratic Member Control, is at the heart of how SECO and other cooperatively structured organizations operate. Trustees are democratically elected by the members who reside in each of SECO’s nine geographic Districts, ensuring fair representation across our service area.

 

The Board of Trustees plays a vital role in providing oversight and shaping policy decisions. The Board works closely with SECO’s Executive Leadership Team to guide the cooperative toward fulfilling its Mission. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, SECO Energy is committed to delivering reliable and innovative energy services to its members and the communities it serves.

 

To find your District and read a short Trustee bio, visit secoenergy.com/board-of-trustees-2/.

 

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH: Summer is almost here – schedule an HVAC tune-up with a qualified technician before temperatures climb into triple digits. Our Energy Services Specialists recommend setting your thermostat to 78 degrees during the summer months for optimal energy savings and comfort. Use ceiling fans to help keep you cooler – but remember to turn them off when you leave the room. Source:energy.gov

 

Read the full May SECO News.

SECO Energy Celebrates 2025 Scholarship Awardees

The future is bright for SECO Energy’s 2025 Scholarship awardees. SECO’s Board of Trustees approved $36,000 in scholarships to high school seniors graduating this year who reside in homes served by SECO. These 12 outstanding local students exemplify academic excellence and leadership within their communities.  

 

On Monday, April 21, the SECO Youth Programs Committee hosted a special recognition event to honor this year’s 12 Youth Scholarship awardees. Each student was awarded a $3,000 scholarship to support their educational journey. 

 

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees President and District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson congratulated the 2025 Youth Scholarship awardees. President Anderson stated, “Congratulations to this year’s exceptional student awardees and their families that have supported their education goals. Learning about their accomplishments, fields of study, and the accolades earned by these young men and women in our communities is truly impressive. SECO and other electric cooperatives are constantly seeking new talent, and I believe we can find that talent right here in our hometowns. I encourage these students to consider bringing their talents, skills, and abilities to SECO Energy when the time comes to begin their careers.” 

SECO Energy’s 2025 Scholarship Awardees are:  

Cayman Azis – Celebration High School – Marine Biology and Ecology  

Abigail Colon – West Port High School – Animal Science 

Cedrick Gener – Citrus High School – Electrical Engineering 

Maria Leon-Salazar – Real Life Christian Academy – Mechanical Engineering 

Suhani Nihalani – Vanguard High School – Biomedical Engineering 

Isabella Raistrick – West Port High School – Nursing  

Charles Randall – Foundation Academy – Nuclear Engineering 

Peyton Ressler – The Villages Charter High School – Political Science 

Jonathan Rodriguez – Lake County Home School – Mechanical Engineering 

Mittie Thomas-O’Brien – Umatilla High School – Health Services Administration 

Zachary Townsend – Belleview High School – Constructional Engineering 

Leslie Zavala-Guillen – South Sumter High School – Medicine 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn shared similar sentiments. Wynn said, “As I reviewed the scholarship awardees selected by the Youth Programs Committee, I was inspired by their stories and achievements. Congratulations, students – you are on the path of success because of your hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence. As President Anderson mentioned, SECO and the energy industry as a whole are in need of young driven talent as we embrace emerging new technologies and navigate new industry challenges.” 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn (left) and Board President Gerald Anderson (right) gather with the 2025 SECO Energy Youth Scholarship awardees.

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy. 

 

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2025 Officers

At its March 31 meeting, the SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected its Officers for 2025. Board President and District 3 Trustee, Gerald Anderson, was re-elected to serve a fourth consecutive term as Board President. District 9 Trustee and Board Secretary/Treasurer, Morgan Hatfield, was elected to serve her first term as Board Vice President. District 2 Trustee, Joyce Anderson, was elected to serve as the Secretary/Treasurer – a role she previously held between 2022 and 2023.

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative that is operated for and owned by the members it serves. SECO Energy’s 2,100-square-mile service area is divided into nine geographic Districts. Trustees are democratically elected by the members who reside in each District. As SECO Energy’s governing body, the Board of Trustees provides oversight and plays an essential role in policy-making decisions.

 

President Anderson expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to continue serving as a SECO Trustee. “SECO Energy is a well-run cooperative that puts the needs of its members first,” said Anderson. “As Board members, we work closely with SECO’s Executive Leadership Team to guide the cooperative toward fulfilling its Mission. In my six years of service on the SECO Board, we have approved new technologies and innovations that help our members understand and manage their monthly energy use – putting them in control of their budget.”

 

SECO Energy’s Mission, as a not-for-profit electric cooperative, is to provide reliable and innovative energy services to its members and communities.

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn is grateful for the dedication of the SECO Board of Trustees. “Our nine-member Board of Trustees dedicates countless working hours in service to the membership,” said Wynn. “Trustee governance is integral to a cooperative’s success. This group understands that members’ needs are evolving, and that SECO needs to evolve as well.”

 

Wynn continued, “I am very grateful for the foresight of our Trustees. They understand our values, our goals, and our strategic vision. Together, we continue to explore new technologies and programs that enhance reliability and safety, while maintaining affordable electric service.”

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.

SECO Energy Announces Adjustments to Pole Charges, Reducing Previously Planned Increases

SECO Energy has announced adjustments to the planned pole charge increases, reducing the second phase of the previously scheduled rate adjustment. This decision follows a comprehensive review of operational efficiencies and direct feedback from our members.

 

These changes will directly impact SECO Energy members who are affiliated with homeowner associations (HOAs), property owner associations (POAs), developers, and city and county government organizations—many of whom manage lighting infrastructure within their communities.

 

After announcing the original increase in spring 2024, the Board and staff implemented a phased approach, applying half of the projected increase in October 2024 and planning the remaining adjustment for October 2025. However, through an updated cost analysis and key operational modifications, the second half of the increase has been significantly reduced.

 

Key Operational Modifications include:

  • Outage Response: Adjusted from a very aggressive 24-hour response time to a 7– 30-day timeframe, which is more in line with industry standards.
  • Outage Identification: Members and residents will now be responsible for reporting outages, replacing the previous practice of multiple annual system patrols performed by SECO personnel, sometimes resulting in overtime costs.
  • Fiberglass Pole Replacements: Reducing capital outlay by transitioning from systemwide changeouts to an ‘as-needed’ replacement approach.
  • Fixture Offerings: Reducing inventory carrying costs by shifting from a broad range of fixture offerings for new requests to a limited selection.

 

As a result of these changes, the originally anticipated increase for October 2025 has been significantly reduced. More specifically, wood pole rates will remain the same, aluminum pole rates will be reduced by 12%, concrete and fiberglass poles will increase by 19%, rather than the original 77% increase prior to the operational modifications.

 

The precise impact of these changes will vary by community based on the mix of pole types in place. More detailed breakdowns of anticipated billing impacts will be provided to members in the coming weeks to assist with budgeting and planning.

 

“We appreciate the feedback and patience of our members as we work to balance cost management with maintaining the high level of reliability and service our community expects,” said Curtis Wynn, CEO of SECO Energy.

SECO News April 2025

Wynn's Wire

 

2025 Annual Meeting

 

DEAR MEMBER,

 

Thank you to all who tuned in to the 2025 Annual Meeting and those who actively participated in the cooperative’s governance process. As a member of the cooperative, the Annual Meeting is for you. It’s your opportunity to learn about SECO Energy, hear important updates, vote on Annual Meeting business, and ask questions.

 

If you missed our Annual Meeting, I encourage you to watch the video on SECOEnergy.com; you can also watch it on our Facebook page or YouTube channel.

 

Watch the recorded Annual Meeting video at SECOEnergy.com to find answers to the trivia questions.

 

PLAY 2025 ANNUAL MEETING TRIVIA FOR A SECOND CHANCE TO WIN!

Head over to our Facebook page at Facebook.com/SECOEnergy to participate. You can mail your answers to SECOEnergy.com, Attn: Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585. Submit your answers by May 15. Winners will be notified by May 30.

 

HERE’S WHAT YOU COULD WIN:

  • Two (2) $250 SECO Energy bill credits

  • Three (3) $100 SECO Energy bill credits

  • Five (5) $50 SECO Energy bill credits

 

HOW TO PLAY:

Visit the trivia post on SECO Energy’s Facebook page and answer these three questions in the comments section:

1. What topic of interest was ranked number one for members participating in the Cooperative Engagement Forum?

2. What’s SECO Energy’s official online account management platform?

3. What’s the name of SECO Energy’s new program that helps members reduce peak demand using smart thermostats, EV chargers, and battery backup systems?

 

Thank you again for your active participation in our cooperative!

 

 

CURTIS WYNN

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News April 2025 National Safe Digging Month Sunshine 811

One of the leading causes of underground utility damage nationwide is individuals failing to contact 811 before digging. In Florida, it’s the law to contact 811 before you dig.

STEPS FOR SAFE DIGGING:

 

1. Plan

Consider the scope of your project and whether you’ll need to hire a contractor. If digging in a small area, outline that area with white paint or flags.

 

2. Notify 811

You’ll receive a ticket number and list of utilities that will be notified of your project. Be aware utility companies do not mark private lines.

 

3. Wait

Utility operators have two business days to mark underground lines before you can begin digging.

 

4. Confirm Responses

Track the progress of each utility response code they use to explain your dig site.

 

5. Respect Marks

After you’ve received responses from all relevant utilities, compare the colors of the marks and flags on your property with the utility list on your ticket.

 

6. Dig Carefully

With utilities marked, dig with caution. Florida has a 24-inch tolerance zone from the edges of facilities. Watch for roots and stumps that may entangle utility lines.

 

Approximately 98% of SECO Energy’s new facilities added last year (397 miles) were underground. If you hit a utility line, immediately contact the company – do not attempt to repair it yourself. Hitting an underground line can cause serious injuries.

 

Sunshine 811 is a free service available by calling 8-1-1 or online at Sunshine811.com.

 

 

SECO News April 2025 Right Tree, Right Place

Trees growing too close to power lines are a safety concern, a leading cause of power outages, and create sparks, fires, and shock hazards. To avoid these problems, SECO trims trees regularly and asks members to make good choices when planting trees. A tree placed in the proper spot today can avoid problems tomorrow, especially where power lines are concerned.

 

Plant trees that won’t interfere with power lines when fully grown. Small ornamental trees or shrubs that will not exceed 25 feet in height are best to plant 10 feet away from power lines. Trees that grow to a mature height of more than 40 feet should be planted at least 50 feet away from overhead power lines.

 

When landscaping, keep fences, shrubs, and other obstructions at least 10 feet away from the front of pad-mounted transformers where the lock is located and at least three feet from the rear and sides of the transformer.

 

Call Sunshine One-Call (811) locator service three days before planting to check the location of underground services. This service is free, and in Florida, it’s the law.

 

Note it is the homeowner’s responsibility to locate private underground services such as sprinklers or septic on the property.

 

 

SECO News April 2025 Tree Line USA Recognition

 

Trees around power lines can disrupt electric service, particularly during severe weather events with lightning or high winds. To maintain reliability and community safety, SECO Energy prunes and removes trees near overhead power lines every three years, covering approximately 1,500 miles of lines annually.

 

Recently, SECO Energy was honored with the Tree Line USA Utility designation for the 18th consecutive year. This recognition acknowledges utilities that play a role in contributing to the preservation and enhancement of America’s urban forests.

 

Tree Line USA is a national program supported by a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters. This program promotes the coexistence of reliable electricity delivery and thriving tree populations in communities.

 

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH: Include energy efficiency in your landscaping by planting shade trees around your home. Deciduous trees planted on the south side can lower temperatures by up to six degrees. They provide shade during the summer while allowing sunlight to warm your home in the cooler months after they lose their leaves. Source: energy.gov

 

Read the full April SECO News.

SECO Energy Announces 2025 Virtual Annual Business Meeting

SECO Energy will host its 2025 Annual Business Meeting virtually on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 6 p.m. Members can join the webcast by visiting SECOEnergy.com and clicking the virtual Annual Meeting banner at the top of the homepage. Links to the broadcast will also be published on SECO Energy’s Facebook, X, and Instagram pages.

 

Members who tune into the Virtual Annual Meeting will be introduced to SECO Energy’s nine-member Board of Trustees, Board President Gerald Anderson will deliver the President’s Report, and CEO Curtis Wynn will provide a cooperative update.

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn encourages members to take part in the upcoming Annual Meeting and make their voices heard.  “Members, we need your vote on Annual Meeting business,” said Wynn.

 

SECO is giving away 100 Annual Meeting prizes including five $1,000 cash prizes, SECO bill credits of up to $500, and randomly selecting 15 members during the live broadcast to win a $50 bill credit. To be entered into the prize drawing chance to win, submit voting ballots online at SECOEnergy.com, complete the ballot included with the Annual Meeting Notice, or call (352) 793-3801.

 

On the evening of the Annual Meeting, a live Member Engagement Panel will open for questions and comments starting at 5 p.m. Members may participate by emailing SECO2025AM@secoenergy.com or by calling (352) 329-MEET. Selected questions and comments appealing to the broader SECO Energy membership may be addressed live during the panel.

 

Member votes will be tallied, and prize winners will be announced at the end of the Annual Meeting broadcast on March 27. The list of prize winners will be available at SECOEnergy.com after the Meeting’s conclusion. Cash prize winners will be contacted to arrange delivery. Bill credit prizes will appear on the winners’ next billing statements.

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit, cooperatively structured utility that believes in fostering member engagement and offering innovative energy services. As SECO Energy’s membership continues to grow, the shift to a Virtual Annual Meeting format has been proven to reduce costs while increasing member participation in Annual Meeting voting and business matters.

 

Visit SECOEnergy.com to read the 2024 Annual Meeting Minutes and vote to approve. Members without internet access may pick up a copy of the 2024 Annual Meeting Minutes at one of SECO Energy’s five Member Service Centers located in Eustis, Groveland, Inverness, Ocala, and Sumterville.

SECO Energy District 3 Members Re-elect Trustee Gerald Anderson

SECO Energy members who reside in District 3 re-elected current Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson to represent them on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees for another three years. The meeting was held on February 5 at Savannah Center of The Villages, located within the District.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. Its service area is geographically divided into nine Districts, with one Trustee elected from each district to represent their fellow members on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to provide governance oversight and participate in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

 

President Anderson and Roger Weakley both submitted a letter of intent to run for the District 3 Trustee position. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings, and the Florida Statute mandates in-person elections. To encourage participation and enhance convenience, a drive-thru voting option was available for members.

 

A SECO member since 2013, President Anderson was first elected to SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in 2019. In 2021, he earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the highest Trustee accreditation from the NRECA. He formerely served as both Board Secretary-Treasurer and Vice President before being elected as SECO Energy Board President in 2022. Mr. Anderson lives in The Villages. 

 

Trustee Anderson thanked his District 3 constituents for their attendance at the District Meeting and their vote of confidence. “I’m honored to be re-elected to the SECO Board,” he stated. “We’re entering a period of significant growth and development, and I’m committed to ensuring we navigate these opportunities effectively. I value the trust placed in me by the District 3 members and am enthusiastic about the work ahead.” 

 

CEO Curtis Wynn expressed his gratitude to the District 3 members for their impressive turnout at the meeting. He also acknowledged the two candidates who demonstrated a commitment to serving their community through SECO Energy Board service. “The Executive Leadership Team and I value Mr. Anderson’s contributions as District 3 Trustee and as Board President since 2022. I have worked with, or for, hundreds of Board members, President Anderson is one of the most hardworking board members I have had the pleasure to serve with. Congratulations, President Anderson on your re-election,” Wynn stated. “We look forward to continued collaboration with him and the Board to ensure SECO Energy’s ongoing success.” 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see when SECO Energy crews/contractors are working in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit About SECO Energy.