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SECO Energy Prepares for Potential Tropical Cyclone 4

SECO Energy is preparing for the possibility that Potential Tropical Cyclone 4 will affect parts of its service territory. Forecasts predict the system could develop into a tropical storm and impact Florida as early as Saturday night.

 

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Potential Tropical Cyclone 4’s current wind speeds are 30 mph, and the system is moving northwest at 16 mph. Potential Tropical Cyclone 4’s track remains uncertain as it approaches Florida. Current modeling suggests the system will remain on a west-northwest path and strengthen over the next 48 hours, potentially developing into a hurricane.

 

If Potential Tropical Cyclone 4 follows its projected path, SECO Energy members could experience tropical storm conditions and significant rainfall over the weekend and into early next week. Tornados spawned by tropical force winds are also a threat.

 

Take time today to prepare your family and home. Monitor weather reports and prepare in advance for Potential Tropical Cyclone 4 to make landfall in SECO Energy’s service territory.

 

StormCenter is SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform for members to report outages, check the status of an existing outage, and enroll in outage communications and alerts via email, text, voice, or all three. Visit StormCenter today and bookmark it on your smartphone or tablet to report outages quickly and easily.

 

SECO has designed a new Hurricane Handbook to help members prepare before, during, and after a storm. The Hurricane Handbook is available online.

 

Stay up to date on weather affecting SECO Energy’s service area, the latest news releases, and cooperative updates by “liking” and “following” SECO Energy on Facebook and X.

Officials and Key Community Leaders Attend Storm Preparation Meeting at SECO Energy

Representative Yvonne Hinson (Florida House of Representatives) asking questions during SECO Energy’s Storm Preparedness and Readiness meeting.

SECO Energy hosted a Storm Preparedness and Readiness meeting as Atlantic hurricane season begins. The meeting focused on engaging with officials and key community leaders to discuss detailed strategies for hurricane season. The meeting was an essential part of the cooperative’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and resilience of the communities we serve.

 

Attendees included several notable figures such as Representative Yvonne Hinson; staff from the offices of Representative Ryan Chamberlin, Congresswoman Kat Cammack, and Congressman Daniel Webster; Citrus County Fire Chief Craig Stevens; and various emergency management officials from Marion, Citrus, and Sumter counties. 

 

The meeting was opened with a warm welcome from SECO Energy’s CEO, Curtis Wynn, and followed up by a presentation led by John LaSelva, Chief Operating Officer, focusing on the cooperative’s storm readiness process involving extensive pre-storm preparation that includes system hardening, vegetation management, and the development of an emergency response plan with FEMA contracts in place. Also mentioned were meticulously planned pre-storm logistics, such as securing hotel accommodations for assisting crews, fuel, and staging personnel and equipment.

 

SECO Energy Storm Preparedness and Readiness Meeting held at SECO Energy headquarters on Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Following a storm, SECO conducts thorough damage assessments and restores service in the priority order mandated by the State – shelters, hospitals, feeders with the highest member count, then individual services and area lights. All reports and invoices are compiled and submitted for FEMA reimbursement to ensure financial accountability and recovery. SECO Energy’s Vice President of Financial & Administrative Services, Anh Reynolds, discussed FEMA reimbursement requirements and how the cooperative plans and prepares for the potential financial aftermath of a storm.  

 

Kathy Judkins, Manager of Community and Economic Development and Government Relations for SECO Energy, provided information on Emergency Operation Center preparations and post-storm activities. She also shared SECO Energy’s role in providing timely and accurate information to officials and key community leaders, which helps them offer information when their constituents call on them. 

 

Joint group discussion networking with Chris Evan, Director of Emergency Management for Citrus County; David Casto, Director of Emergency Management for Sumter County; Anh Reynolds, SECO Energy’s VP of Financial & Administrative Services; and Ben Dawson, SECO Energy’s VP of Growth, Smart Grid & Operational Technology

SECO Energy places a strong emphasis on communication internally and externally. Amanda Richardson, Manager of Corporate Communications for SECO Energy, concluded the presentation by highlighting the cooperative’s strategic storm communication efforts. She discussed the cooperative’s strategic storm communications plan, implemented to ensure that all the employees, members, and communities served have the information and support they need to weather the storm. This includes updates on the storm’s track and intensity, restoration progress, and essential community alerts.

 

The meeting was an essential step in reinforcing the community’s resilience and readiness for the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. The collaborative efforts and shared insights will significantly contribute to a coordinated and effective response to future storm events. 

 

CEO Curtis Wynn emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and the role of community leaders in ensuring an effective and swift response to storm impacts. “Our preparedness and readiness are crucial to the safety and well-being of the communities we serve,” said Mr. Wynn. “The collaborative efforts of our leaders and emergency management teams are vital in ensuring a quick and effective response. At SECO Energy, we are committed to leveraging all our resources and expertise to protect our members and maintain service reliability during the hurricane season.” 

 

For more information about SECO Energy’s storm preparedness and response efforts, visit SECOEnergy.com. 

 

“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 EARNS AN ACSI® 2024 CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AWARD

SECO Energy is honored to have earned a 2024 Customer Satisfaction Award* from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI®) based on our member survey results. Members were asked to rate their overall satisfaction with us, how well we lived up to their expectations, and how well we measured up to their ideal co-op experience. While these were not the only questions in the survey, we included these specifically because they are the core components of the proprietary ACSI methodology.

 

SECO Energy’s ACSI score substantially outperforms the industry average score earned by publicly measured utilities reported in the 2024 ACSI Energy Utility Study. This Award is a testament to SECO Energy’s ongoing efforts to provide the best possible member experience.

 

 

The 2024 Customer Satisfaction Award affirms that SECO Energy’s hard work has been noticed by its members. SECO Energy is grateful for its members and will continue to strive for excellence through constant dedication to improvement.

 

SECO Energy’s CEO Curtis Wynn is grateful for the hard work and accomplishments of his team. Wynn stated, “The SECO Energy team of 400+ employees is thankful and humbled by the trust we have earned from our members. Every day at SECO, we strive to provide top-notch member satisfaction and excellent service, while maintaining reliable electric service that our members depend upon. Thank you, SECO members, for recognizing your not-for-profit electric cooperative’s efforts on your behalf.”

 

*Award criteria are determined by the ACSI® and are based on customers rating their satisfaction in a survey independent of the syndicated ACSI Energy Utility Study. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org/badges. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC.

 

“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.

 

Co-op Energy Utilities ACSI Customer Satisfaction Award 2024 Badge

SECO Energy earns this award based on data modeled by the ACSI® in 2024. Award criteria are determined by the ACSI based on customers rating their satisfaction with SECO Energy in a survey independent of the syndicated ACSI Energy Utility Study. For more about the ACSI, visit www.theacsi.org/badges. ACSI and its logo are registered trademarks of the American Customer Satisfaction Index LLC.

SECO Energy Announces Increase in Lighting Rates

SECO Energy, a trusted, local, not-for-profit electric cooperative, is deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve over 240,000 homes and businesses in seven Central Florida counties. We are honored that our electric service touches the lives of over 500,000 consumers every day. SECO Energy has been a member of your local community for over 85 years and is one of the fastest growing electric cooperatives in the nation.

 

Today, SECO Energy supplies reliable electric and lighting services to more than 62,000 families and commercial accounts within The Villages community. We invest millions each year in building and maintaining our state-of-the-art electric grid, so we stand ready to meet the increasing demand for safe and economical electric power to serve your future neighbors.

 

SECO Energy also takes a proactive approach to maintaining thousands of streetlights that illuminate The Villages at night. In the interest of public safety and well-being, our crews patrol The Villages boundaries, investigating lighting outages and malfunctions. Our track record proves that most lighting issues are repaired within 24 hours after the lighting malfunction is reported to the utility – a response time that is almost unheard of among electric utilities. Nationally, other utilities target a repair time for lighting outages to be less than 30 days. SECO also has an interactive online tool called LightFinder, which allows members to report lighting outages or malfunctions quickly, thereby ensuring a faster response time and improved service.

 

As a member of a cooperatively structured utility, individuals and businesses share in the benefits and costs of SECO Energy through their energy purchases and additional energy services. Unfortunately, material costs and supply chain shortages, particularly in LED lighting fixtures and poles, have necessitated the need for the cooperative to increase the monthly rate for lighting service that went into effect on May 1. These increases are a direct result of the industry’s shift towards LED technology, which is more efficient and longer lasting, but also more expensive. SECO will also enact a more substantial increase in pole rental costs for lighting that will go into effect in October of this year.

 

SECO Energy’s Vice President of Growth, Smart Grid, and Operational Technology, Ben Dawson, wholeheartedly supports the Rate Tariff changes that impact lighting. Dawson reassures, “The SECO Energy team is unwavering in our commitment to maintaining competitive rates, and exceptional service to our members. The rate for lighting service had remained steady for over a decade. The industry is shifting toward more efficient and longer lasting LED lighting, and SECO is looking forward to embracing this newer lighting type, all while ensuring the continued delivery of reliable and affordable energy service to all members.”

 

Dawson continued, “Maintaining reliable lighting service along streets and busy roadways also involves a public safety component. SECO wants its members to enjoy the benefit of well-lit streets, walking paths, and neighborhoods that most who live in The Villages have come to expect.”

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit entity. Energy rates, lighting service costs, and additional services are structured not to turn a profit but to reflect the costs of providing power and other related services. We continually review rates through cost-of-service studies which are comprehensive evaluations of the costs associated with providing service to different customer groups, to ensure fairness and equity among ratepayers and that the cost of additional services is not subsidized by the entire membership base. The full rate tariff is available online at SECOEnergy.com.

 

 

SECO Energy CEO Advances Rural Communities at White House Event

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn has accepted an invitation to attend the Biden-Harris Administration’s Rural Communities in Action Event on Tuesday, May 14, at The White House. The event will highlight the Administration’s investments in rural communities and lift up success stories from rural leaders.

 

 

In November 2021, President Biden signed a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package into law. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) secured several vital wins for electric co-ops in the package. As a result, the new law includes significant investment and funding opportunities for electric cooperatives and the communities they serve. The funding opportunities fall into the following major categories: electrical grid modernization and resiliency, clean energy, electric vehicles, physical and cybersecurity, and broadband.

 

 

SECO Energy is a frontrunner in tapping into these once-in-a-generation funding opportunities that will offset the enormous amount of money the cooperative would otherwise have to borrow at rising interest rates. SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn stated, “The available grant funding could not have come at a better time. Our Board recently approved one of the largest construction work plan budgets in the cooperative’s history to keep up with the tremendous growth in the region. The cost of the material needed to construct new substations, build new services, modernize our electrical grid, and keep our rights-of-way clear of trees throughout SECO’s service territory has increased exponentially over the past few years. The timely grant funding will help us keep pace with Central Florida’s tremendous growth, provide innovative and reliable service, and maintain competitive electric rates for our members.”

 

 

To date, SECO Energy has submitted ten grant proposals from four federal agencies totaling more than $177 million to support over $287 million in projects that would typically be paid for by our members. While final approval is pending on some of the grant proposals, many are already approved. The projects are being placed under contract with the respective federal agencies responsible for dispersing the funds. Once implemented, these projects will increase reliability for SECO Energy members across the board.

 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn
SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn

Examples of projects include converting overhead utility lines to underground, hardening existing poles, installing larger conductor to increase line capacity, replacing aging inefficient equipment, deploying solar & battery storage, creating micro-grids, upgrading outdoor lighting from obsolete high-pressure sodium to more efficient LED (light emitting diodes)/dark-sky-friendly lighting and expanding load capacity with new distribution substations. Members will benefit from the investments through improved reliability, faster outage restoration times, and additional protections against extreme weather events that Central Floridians are vulnerable to.  Finally, according to the federal requirements associated with these grant opportunities, SECO Energy has prioritized locations within our service territory that are designated as underserved and ‘disadvantaged.’

 

 

Wynn is pleased to accept the opportunity to represent rural communities. Wynn stated, “I am grateful to be considered a voice for rural Americans, and an advocate of the not-for-profit cooperative business model. I have spent my career furthering the interests of the local rural communities our utilities serve. Attending the Rural Communities in Action Event at the invitation of the Biden-Harris Administration is not only a great honor, but an opportunity to bring national attention to electric cooperative members’ need for safe, reliable, and affordable electric power.”

 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/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 Celebrates 2024 Scholarship Awardees

SECO Energy has announced its 2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Awardees. Each of the twelve scholarship awardees will receive $3,000 to advance their education. SECO Energy’s scholarship program targets local students who will attend a Florida college, university, or trade school. 

 

The applicants were judged on their scholastic record (weighted GPS), school/community activities, and financial need. Consideration was given to applicants whose stated major was a degree in technology, business, engineering, or mathematics, especially as they relate to the energy sector. Relevant majors include, but are not limited to, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical, nuclear, environmental, civil, agricultural/biological, industrial, materials science, and various branches of mathematics. 

 

SECO Energy Scholarships are awarded to high school seniors graduating in May or June of the current year who live in a home served by SECO Energy. The awardee must enroll as a full-time student in an accredited Florida college, university, or trade school before the end of 2024.

 

 

2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Winners

Name High School Resides In
Garrett Harrison The Villages Charter High School Fruitland Park
Presley S. Stanton Florida Virtual School Clermont
Armand Grable Wildwood Middle-High School Wildwood
Charles Anthony Tavares High School Astatula
Fabian DeJesus-Colon West Port High School Ocala
Delbie Zayas Rosado Wildwood Middle-High School Groveland
Ramiya Blackwell Wildwood Middle-High School Ocala
Jubilette Huff Wildwood Middle-High School Wildwood
Eden Thomas West Port High School Ocala
Faith Long South Sumter High School Webster
Michael A. Viel, Jr. Eustis High School Eustis
Jacob R. Davis Leesburg High School Lady Lake

 

2024 SECO Energy Scholarship Awardees Congratulated

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn congratulated the 2024 SECO Energy Scholarship recipients. Wynn stated, “I want to congratulate our 2024 Scholarship awardees, it is uplifting to see students investing in themselves by pursuing an advanced education. Their efforts in the next few years could launch a fruitful career that opens the door to personal achievements that impact entire communities and beyond. The energy industry is growing, and the technology we rely on is advancing quickly. We will need an ongoing supply of ambitious talent in many capacities to carry SECO Energy forward. By awarding these scholarships, SECO is investing in students who have demonstrated their readiness to work hard and build a bright future for themselves.” 

 

Wynn continued, “We hope these twelve awardees continue to set high goals and work to achieve them. When they look to begin their professional career, we hope they will consider joining SECO Energy. We are growing rapidly and will be a leading employer in our region for years to come. Our compensation and benefits package, which includes comprehensive medical and dental insurance, generous paid time off, 401k with company matching contributions, a retirement pension plan, an employee-referral program, and student loan reimbursement are competitive in any market. So, when it’s time to get to work, make SECO Energy your first call.” 

 

SECO Energy is hiring! To view open positions, set up job alerts, and apply online, visit: SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > Careers. 

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/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 Named “Tree Line USA” Utility by Arbor Day Foundation

SECO Energy has been named a 2024 Tree Line USA Utility by the Arbor Day Foundation. Tree Line USA recognizes public and private utilities that help to preserve and enhance America’s urban forests. SECO Energy has maintained the Tree Line USA Utility designation for 17 consecutive years. 

  

Tree Line USA is a national program that is sustained through a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters. Tree Line USA promotes the coexistence of reliable and safely delivered electricity in communities that maintain vigorous tree populations.

 

Five Tree Line USA Standards

Arbor Day Foundation logo

To be recognized as a Tree Line USA Utility, SECO Energy must maintain exceptional standards in meeting five program tenets. These require utilities to respect industry standards for outstanding tree care; deliver yearly worker training in best tree care practices; promote a tree planting and education program; sustain a tree-based energy conservation program; and participate in an Arbor Day celebration. 

  

This year is the 152nd Anniversary of Arbor Day, which is celebrated on Friday, April 26. The Arbor Day Foundation is celebrating its 52nd Anniversary this year. Since its inception, it has facilitated the planting and distribution of nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries worldwide. Learn more about Arbor Day and its mission.

 

CEO Curtis Wynn acknowledged SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team for their unceasing efforts that have once again earned SECO Energy the Tree Line USA Utility designation. Wynn said, “We are very proud of SECO Energy’s Vegetation Management team and our full-scale vegetation program. To be named as an Arbor Day Foundation Tree Line USA Utility for seventeen consecutive years is quite an accomplishment. SECO Energy’s consistent investment in its vegetation management program not only reduces power outages through the safe management of our existing rights-of-way, but through recognition like this, it establishes a high standard that our team members aspire to achieve, year after year.” 

  

Wynn continued, “I believe most of our members recognize SECO Energy’s commitment to quality tree care that promotes healthy, well-maintained trees planted in the right place can help reduce their annual energy costs.” 

 

Visit Right Tree Right Place for tips on planting trees away from power lines and how trees can help reduce annual energy bills. SECO Energy has also launched online energy efficiency tools to help members reduce energy consumption and costs. The Home Energy Assessment is an online energy audit tailored to each member’s home and lifestyle. A member may enter details about their home that impact energy use and efficiency. This information enables SECO Energy to send free energy-saving advice. The Energy Estimator calculates the cost of electrical devices typically found in most homes.

 

“Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on X/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 District 4 Members Elect James LaMotte as Trustee

SECO Energy members residing in District 4 elected James LaMotte as their representative to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in a Special District Meeting on April 9, following the passing of Mr. Richard Dennison, a long-standing Trustee earlier this year. The Meeting and election were held within the District at the Marion Oaks Assembly of God in Ocala. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s service area is geographically divided into nine Districts. One Trustee is elected from each of the nine Districts to represent their fellow members on SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees. Collectively, the Board represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the financial status of the cooperative while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large. 

 

Mr. James LaMotte and Mr. Richard McGinley, both of whom reside in Ocala, submitted letters of intent to run as the District 4 candidate, and each met the Trustee qualifications. As the newly elected Trustee, Mr. LaMotte will assume the seat held since 2015 by the late Trustee, Mr. Richard Dennison. Mr. LaMotte will hold the Trustee position for the remainder of the 2023-2026 term. 

 

SECO Energy’s Bylaws require that the cooperative hold District Meetings every three years, during which time elections are held to determine the District’s representation on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. Cooperatives that hold in-person District Meetings must also hold an in-person election per Florida Statute. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation. 

 

Mr. LaMotte has served as president of the SECO Energy Foundation Board since its inception. He currently works as the Area Coordinator for Marion County Public Schools, handling the custodial and grounds of over 25 sites and managing approximately 100 employees. He lives in Ocala Waterway Estates with his wife, Suzan, and has been a member of SECO Energy for nearly 30 years.

 

Following the election, Mr. LaMotte was congratulated by Board Trustee and President Gerald Anderson and SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn. LaMotte expressed his appreciation for being chosen to contribute to his community in a significant role, stating, “I’m thankful and humbled by the support from everyone in District 4 who participated in the election. Serving on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees is a tremendous honor. Mr. Dennison has been an exemplary figure in this District. Stepping into this role, I look forward to tackling the challenges of increasing energy demand, grid security, and the integration of new technologies. I’m ready to work closely with the Board to navigate these issues and support the members of SECO Energy effectively.” 

 

President Anderson added, “Well done, Mr. LaMotte, on your successful election to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees and I are prepared to collaborate with you to deepen your understanding of SECO’s distinct operational procedures, our key goals, and the significant challenges we face moving forward.” 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn expressed condolences for Mr. Dennison’s passing and welcomed Mr. LaMotte to his new role, stating, “We deeply feel the absence left by Mr. Dennison, a Trustee whose dedication and work were highly esteemed. Mr. LaMotte’s significant involvement in the SECO Energy Foundation Board has helped equip him for his responsibilities as a Trustee. Given his contributions and dedication to SECO Energy’s mission, we look forward to the future with optimism.” 

 

“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 2024 Officers

The SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected its 2024 Officers during their March Trustee Meeting. District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson was re-elected Board President. Scott Boyatt, District 1 Trustee, was elected to once again serve as Board Vice President and District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield was re-elected to continue her role as Secretary/Treasurer.  

  

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by its members, who elect representatives from their respective Districts to serve on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees for three-year terms. Collectively, the nine-member SECO Board of Trustees represents all members by meeting monthly to monitor the cooperative’s governance process, provide fiduciary oversight, and participate in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the members at large.  

 

District 3 Trustee and Board President Gerald Anderson was re-elected for a third consecutive term. Mr. Anderson has been a SECO Energy member since 2013 and resides in The Villages. His first election to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees was in 2019. During his tenure, he has earned his Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and maintained the prestigious Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). 

 

President Anderson stated, “I’m truly moved and honored to continue serving our members as President. Leading such a talented and diverse team is a privilege and responsibility. Together, we’re not just facing challenges but seizing opportunities to make SECO Energy even stronger for our members.”  

 

District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt retained his office as Vice President. Mr. Boyatt has been a SECO Member since 2004 and resides in Clermont. His first election to the Board was in 2013. Since joining the SECO Board, he has completed the Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and has achieved Director Gold Credentials from the NRECA.  

  

Vice President Boyatt reflected on his continued service with a sense of purpose and commitment, saying, “Being a part of this Board has been a rewarding experience. Each decision we make is an opportunity to positively impact our community and ensure the sustainability of our service area. As we navigate growth and transformation in our region, I’m eager to shape a future where every member benefits from reliable, sustainable, and efficient energy solutions.” 

  

District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield was re-elected to serve a second term as Secretary/Treasurer. She has been a member since 2019 and resides in Paisley. Her first election to the Board was in 2021. Ms. Hatfield successfully holds her Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (NRECA).   

  

Ms. Hatfield expressed her enthusiasm and dedication to her role, stating, “It’s genuinely an honor to serve in this capacity. I enjoy contributing to the cooperative’s welfare and success to ensure our cooperative’s financial health and operational efficiency lay a strong foundation for a sustainable future.”  

  

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn applauded the Board’s commitment and vision. “Our Board of Trustees embodies the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of SECO. Their dedication is pivotal to our success as we continue to grow. These Officers have demonstrated their ability to help lead SECO Energy in a direction that will not only meet but exceed the needs of our members, ensuring we remain a reliable and trusted energy provider for years to come.”  

  

The NRECA offers the Director Certification Program to equip cooperative trustees with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective governance, preparing them to address current and future challenges within the electric cooperative sector. This program also awards the Director Gold Credential (DGC) to those continuously seeking to expand their knowledge and fulfill their governance duties to the highest standard.  

  

For more information about SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, initiatives, and how the cooperative serves its members, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op.  

 

“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 Holds 2024 Annual Meeting with Record Member Participation  

SECO Energy held its 2024 virtual Annual Meeting celebrating its 85th year as an electric cooperative on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The Meeting had a record number of member participation with over 17,000 members participating in the Cooperative’s governance process through their vote on Annual Meeting business.

 

During the Meeting, SECO Energy’s membership approved two revisions to the Cooperative’s Bylaws pertaining to District Meetings and Trustee Qualifications and the 2023 Annual Meeting Minutes. SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees recommended both revisions, with the first revision allowing a Trustee candidate to be declared Trustee at the District Meeting without holding an uncontested election if only one candidate is certified by the secretary and the second clarifying the District residency requirements to serve as a Trustee. Members can access the updated Bylaws on SECOEnergy.com or at any SECO Energy Member Service Center.

 

Highlights of the Meeting included SECO Energy’s Board President Gerald Anderson and Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn delivering their respective addresses to the membership, providing important updates on the Cooperative’s business and financial standing to ensure SECO Energy members are well-informed of the Cooperative’s direction and policies. Their messages reinforced SECO Energy’s dedication to providing reliable and innovative energy services and the Cooperative’s Vision to lead in member satisfaction and engagement, inviting members to partake in SECO Energy’s Member Engagement Panel and have their questions answered by the Cooperative’s Executive Leadership Team.

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn

“This year marked a significant milestone for SECO Energy, commemorating its journey from a collective effort of rural households in 1938 to a major electric cooperative serving over 240,000 members today,” stated Wynn. “This milestone year commemorates decades of service, community involvement, and the Cooperative’s commitment to innovation and growth.”

 

Looking ahead, SECO Energy strategically focuses on improving operational efficiency, strengthening connections with its members, and navigating the evolving energy landscape. A vital component of this strategy is SECO Energy’s investment in Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), which marks a step towards modernizing the Cooperative’s services, offering members real-time insights into energy usage, and enabling a more resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure.
SECO Energy remains steadfast in its mission to enhance member experiences and lead the way in energy innovation as the Cooperative moves into the future. SECO Energy members are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming announcements, including the launch of a program that leverages smart technology for energy efficiency and sustainability.

 

For those who missed the live event, the Annual Meeting recording will be available on the SECO Energy website, YouTube, and Facebook, featuring the list of 101 prize winners and more.

 

“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.