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SECO News June 2024

Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 each year, presenting a heightened risk of severe weather and extended power outages. As the 2024 hurricane season begins, I want to address you directly regarding the forecasted weather patterns for our region and what we are doing to ensure your safety and well-being.

 

Wynn's Wire

 

The Colorado State University (CSU) Weather and Climate Research team is predicting an above-average season, with forecasts indicating the possibility of 23 named storms across the Atlantic basin. Eleven are expected to become hurricanes, with five potentially reaching major hurricane status. This projection surpasses the 30-year historical average and reinforces the need for heightened preparedness.

 

SECO Energy is StormReady and prepared to respond to outages caused by summer thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. We closely monitor the weather and make necessary pre-storm preparations behind the scenes. Our crews are trained and ready to respond swiftly to any outages that may occur, but it is equally imperative that all of us take proactive steps to stay prepared.

 

I strongly urge members to be cautious and prepare for potential disruptions. Essential supplies disappear quickly when tropical storms and hurricanes approach. To ensure you are adequately prepared, stay informed and updated on weather forecasts and advisories issued by state and local authorities. Make time to prepare an emergency kit stocked with essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and medications. It’s also important to establish a communication plan with your family and loved ones in case of separation during an emergency. Take precautions to secure outdoor furniture, trim trees, and secure loose objects around your property to minimize potential hazards.

 

During restoration mode, SECO Energy operates around the clock. Crews on the frontline face elements head-on as they work to clear roads to reach affected areas, repairing broken poles, fallen lines, and damaged equipment. We utilize all available resources to restore power to your homes and businesses as safely and quickly as possible and provide regular updates on our progress to keep you informed every step of the way.

 

As we embark on this hurricane season, let’s stay vigilant, prepared, and supportive of one another. Your safety and well-being are paramount. Together, we can weather any storm.

 

Sincerely,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News June 2024 Portable Generator Dos and Don'ts

 

When major storms strike, portable generators can be beneficial but pose significant risks if mishandled. If you plan to use a generator this storm season, here are a few of the dos and don’ts of generator safety you’ll need to know:

 

✓  DO:

  • Use generators OUTSIDE ONLY, directing the generator’s exhaust away from your home and any nearby air intakes to other buildings. Deadly levels of carbon monoxide can build up fast from a portable generator’s exhaust.

  • Operate generators on dry surfaces, under open structures, and away from rain and other water sources to minimize electrical hazards. Remember, WATER AND ELECTRICITY DO NOT MIX.

 

✗  DON’T:

  • DON’T connect your generator directly to your home’s wiring unless it has been wired for generator use by a licensed electrician.

  • DON’T refuel your generator while it is running. Allow it to cool down before refueling.

 

Before using a portable generator, always read its operations manual and adhere to its guidelines for safe operation. By following these precautions, you can make the most of your portable generator while keeping you and your loved ones safe.

 

 

SECO News June 2024 Safety Before, During, and After a Storm

BEFORE: Prepare a storm kit with flashlights, batteries, medicine, first aid supplies, necessary baby items, and supplies for your pets. Stock two weeks’ worth of water, non-perishable food, and essentials. Refill prescriptions and gather important documents such as your social security card, driver’s license, birth certificate, and insurance information for your home, car, and life. Plan an evacuation route in case of an extended power outage and monitor weather forecasts.

 

DURING: Seek shelter and stay away from windows. Avoid leaving candles unattended and limit opening freezers and refrigerators more than necessary. Turn off your heating and air conditioning systems, and unplug sensitive electronic appliances such as TVs, game consoles, microwaves, and computers – this will protect your appliances against power fluctuations that can occur when power is restored. After power is restored, wait five to ten minutes before turning on appliances and heating systems. Stay updated on local alerts and off roads where trees and power lines are down.

 

AFTER: Exercise caution if power lines and poles are down; power lines can still be energized even on the ground, so avoid contact. Debris from a storm can hide downed lines and poles. Fallen trees touching energized power lines can electrify nearby objects such as metal fences, ponds, and even the ground. Check your breakers or fuses if power has been restored to your neighborhood but your home remains out. When using a portable generator during an outage, follow the safety tips in the operations manual.

 

Review our Hurricane Handbook at SECOEnergy.com > Safety > Hurricane Handbook.

 

 

SECO News June 2024 A Message from Secretary/Treasurer Morgan Hatfield StormCenter and Area Light Reporting

StormCenter is SECO Energy’s outage and communications platform 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 SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter and bookmark StormCenter to your smartphone or tablet. With StormCenter bookmarked, you can easily access the outage map, report outages, track restoration progress, and quickly manage notifications related to outage detection and restoration.

 

You can also report an area light outage or malfunction 24 hours a day, seven days a week, using LightFinder. Simply go to StormCenter’s bookmarked page, choose the LightFinder tile, and enter the pole number or turn on location services to report. Reporting members will receive a follow–up email when the light is repaired – usually within 24 hours.

 

SECO Energy provides transparent communication and regular restoration updates during storms. Subscribe to receive email, text, and voice notifications on StormCenter. If you have already subscribed, make sure your contact information is up to date to receive timely notifications and updates regarding future outages and restoration efforts.

 

 

SECO News June 2024 Medically Necessary Service

SECO Energy strives to provide top-tier reliability to 240,000+ homes and businesses in our service territory. Unexpected outages due to weather, vehicle accidents, equipment issues, trees, or animal contact means that SECO cannot guarantee 100 percent uninterrupted power.

 

During emergency restoration efforts following widespread damage, SECO Energy’s foremost priority is to restore power to essential facilities such as shelters, hospitals, schools, and government agencies, including emergency operations centers, fire stations, and law enforcement facilities. It’s important to note that residential accounts marked as medically necessary services are not given top priority during emergencies caused by named storms.

 

For individuals with special needs, resources are available through the Florida Department of Health. Those requiring medical attention or having a specific health need should register with their local emergency management agency to receive assistance during disasters. You can visit FloridaDisaster.org to add your name or a loved one’s to the statewide registry.

 

Registering provides first responders with valuable information to prepare for disasters or other emergencies to meet citizens’ unique needs. Providing as much information as possible will allow emergency management officials to plan accordingly for future disasters. You will be emailed periodically to verify the information provided is correct and to make any necessary changes.

 

Unless you plan to seek shelter at an approved facility, backup generation is critical if you are a member who relies on lifesaving medical equipment powered by electricity.

 

Store your county’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) contact in your phone for quick access. You can also visit your county’s EOC online and enroll in county-specific emergency assistance services and updates.

 

CITRUS COUNTY: (352) 249-2775

HERNANDO COUNTY: (352) 754-4083

LAKE COUNTY: (352) 343-9420

LEVY COUNTY: (352) 486-5213

MARION COUNTY: (352) 369-8100

PASCO COUNTY: (727) 847-8137

SUMTER COUNTY: (352) 689-4400

 

To enroll to receive emergency alerts for your county, visit FloridaDisaster.org.

 

Read the full June 2024 SECO News.

 

 

SECO Energy District 9 Members Re-Elect Trustee Morgan Hatfield

SECO Energy members who reside in District 9 re-elected Morgan Hatfield as the District 9 Trustee to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The District 9 Meeting was held within the District on January 30 at Spring Creek Elementary School in Paisley.

 

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 cooperative’s financial status while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

 

The District 9 election was uncontested, with Ms. Hatfield retaining the seat for another 3-year term. SECO’s Bylaws require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

 

A SECO member since 2019, Ms. Hatfield currently holds the position of Secretary/Treasurer for the Board of Trustees. She attained the Director Gold credential, which is the highest level of achievement through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Trustee Hatfield earned a degree in Finance from UCF and is a Senior Wealth Advisor/Partner of Ruggie Wealth Management.

 

Ms. Hatfield shared with the District 9 audience, “I want to thank all District 9 members for attending and showing your interest in participating as SECO members. I am eager to continue working with my fellow Board of Trustees and doing our best to serve our members with an outstanding product supported by industry-leading service.”

 

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Ms. Hatfield, on your re-election as District 9 Trustee. I am grateful to the District 9 members who attended the Meeting and participated in our cooperative’s governance process. On behalf of our fellow Board members and peers, we are excited to support SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

 

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “The Board of Trustees and the SECO Energy membership are grateful to all Trustees who give generously of their time and experience. We are very happy to have Ms. Hatfield continue with her leadership and strong contributions to the success of SECO Energy in her role as a Board Trustee and her expanded responsibilities as Secretary/Treasurer. Thank you, District 9 members, for your attendance at the meeting and your interest in SECO Energy and the strategic direction in which the board, executive leadership team and employees are taking your electric cooperative.”

 

“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 Mourns Passing of Longtime Trustee Jerry Hatfield

SECO Energy mourns the passing of long-tenured District 9 Trustee, Mr. Jerry Hatfield, who served District 9 in Lake and Marion Counties in the Weirsdale, Umatilla and Paisley areas of SECO Energy’s service territory. Mr. Hatfield’s tenure on the Board of Trustees began in 2000 until 2021.

 

Mr. Hatfield’s daughter, Morgan Hatfield, who was elected to fill the District 9 Trustee seat in 2021 when her father decided not to seek re-election, informed SECO Energy of his passing on November 11, 2022. The cooperative extends its sincere condolences to Mr. Hatfield’s family and loved ones.

 

Mr. Hatfield played several pivotal roles as an elected Trustee serving as Board President for four years. He also served for nine years as Vice President and two years as Secretary/Treasurer. A committed member of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Hatfield provided his insight and wisdom to his fellow Trustees and the executive leadership team for over two decades of service on the Board.

 

Board of Trustee President Gerald Anderson stated, “Jerry was a respected member of the Board of Trustees and represented his constituents and the membership as a whole with a servant leadership approach. He was full of energy and enthusiasm for his community and conducted the governance of SECO Energy with both head and heart. He will be dearly missed by his fellow Trustees, SECO Energy leadership and the many employees whose lives he touched over the years.”

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn stated, “Mr. Hatfield was an educator, administrator and a friend and father figure to many. I’ve heard a number of stories about how he touched the lives of so many students and parents in the Lake County School District and also through his avid work with the Lake County Youth Fair program. He has left an indomitable mark on SECO Energy and the communities we serve with his adept leadership and compassionate heart.”

 

Mr. Hatfield was a longtime member of the Umatilla Kiwanis Club, served in the YMCA Indian Guides with his daughter Morgan in the Indian Princess Program and was a member of the 2005 Leadership Lake County class. He was also a strong supporter of the Lake County Fair.

 

SECO’s Board of Trustees represents the SECO membership, meeting monthly to monitor the cooperative’s financial status while providing fiduciary oversight and participating in policy decisions that serve the best interests of the membership at large.

 

To learn more about the Board of Trustees, 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 reliability and expansion projects in your area, visit our new System Improvement map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > About.

 

SECO Energy Trustee Morgan Hatfield Earns Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield has earned her Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). Achieving the CCD certificate is the initial step in the NRECA’s Director Education Program.

 

According to the NRECA, directors/trustees seeking the CCD certification must complete five courses that focus on basic cooperative governance and the essential skills needed for cooperative directors/trustees. The CCD prepares directors/trustees to fulfill their fiduciary duty as elected officials serving on behalf of their membership. Upon completion of the five CCD required courses, directors/trustees are awarded the Credential Cooperative Director Certificate.

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. They are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on the Board is elected by the members who reside in his/her District. Collectively, the Trustees are responsible for establishing, reviewing and revising corporate policies to ensure that SECO continues to preserve reliable, affordable service for all members.

 

Trustee Hatfield is proud of her accomplishment in earning the Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate through the NRECA. Ms. Hatfield stated, “I am proud to have completed the first part of the NRECA’s Director Education Program by completing my Credentialed Cooperative Director certification. It’s an honor to serve as the District 9 representative on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, and I look forward to continuing my Board education through the NRECA.”

 

CEO Jim Duncan stated, “Congratulations, Trustee Hatfield, on earning your Credentialed Cooperative Director Certification as a major part completing the NRECA’s Director Education Program. I am thankful for your Board service and willingness to serve as your District’s representative on the SECO Energy Board of Trustees.”

 

To view a brief bio of SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and a District boundaries map, visit our Board of Trustees page. “Like” SECO’s Facebook page and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.

 

SECO News, May 2021

 

Duncan’s Digest – 2021 “Just Business” Annual Meeting Recap

 

We celebrated our 2021 “Just Business” 83rd Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 25. We opted to hold the event virtually to avoid the large crowd that traditionally gathers for our onsite Annual Meetings. If you couldn’t watch live, you can watch the full video on our Annual Meeting website section.

 

May 2018 SECO News Duncan's Digest

 

The Meeting was live streamed through webcast, Facebook Live and YouTube. Members tuned in to watch our Board President and District 4 Trustee Richard Dennison call the Meeting to order and close the voting platform at 4:30 p.m. Our Vice President of Corporate Communications and Energy Services Kathryn Gloria gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem which was prerecorded by SECO Energy’s Manager Consumer Billing & Accounting Tim Wallace.

 

During Board introductions, we welcomed new Trustee Morgan Hatfield to the Board. Ms. Hatfield was elected in early February to represent District 9 and began her duties on March 29.

 

Mr. Dennison’s President’s Report provided an overview of the quorum and Annual Meeting requirements Florida cooperatives adhere to under Florida Statute. Two years ago, a Bylaws revision was approved that allows electronic, in-person and by-mail voting on Annual Meeting business to achieve a quorum. Almost 5,000 members voted this year to approve a Bylaws Revision and the 2020 Annual Meeting Minutes. All members who voted were eligible to win 1 of 100 prizes.

 

My state of the company address reported on the excellent financial health of the cooperative. At year-end 2020, our meter count had grown to 216,477 ranking SECO as the third-largest cooperative in Florida and seventh-largest in the nation. Last year, you and your fellow members consumed 3.64 billion kilowatt hours which is an increase of about 1.7 million over 2019.

 

SECO’s investment in its electric system is approaching the $1 billion mark at a current valuation of $955.9 million to support the increased demand for affordable energy in our area. Our TIER rating is 2.87 and member equity equals 33.64%. In the customer satisfaction arena, our 2020 ACSI score is an impressive 91. These are all very healthy ratios in the cooperative utility world.

 

If you’re interested in learning more about our fiscal health, the “Just Business” 2020 Annual Report is available online. Our Independent Auditor’s Report is included with the cooperative’s 2020 and 2019 financial statements.

 

During the “Just Business” Annual Meeting, we held the traditional military branches tribute and recognized the efforts of the 400+ SECO employees, Board of Trustees and local first responders. I also announced my plan to retire as CEO in January 2022, making this my last Annual Meeting as CEO. Admittedly, I wanted my final Annual Meeting address to be live with a large audience in attendance. Unfortunately, large gatherings are currently not in the best interest of our members and employees.

 

Thank you to all who tuned in to watch the Annual Meeting live. If you could not tune in, you can view the full video online.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jim Duncan

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News May 2021 The Old Farmer's Almanac

Advice from The Old Farmer’s Almanac

 

A new friend with fur, feathers or scales may help you reduce stress and offer valuable companionship. The Old Farmer’s Almanac has advice on which pet may be the best fit for your home and family. Almost 60% of U.S. households include at least one pet. Dogs rule the home because they are loving and affectionate but require a hefty time commitment. Cats may be less affectionate and more independent than dogs, but they usually involve less work. Fish are beautiful and colorful but need a clean and well-maintained tank to live. Birds are fun to watch and may add a lively tune or funny voices to your home – but can be messy.

 

Want to spread the love for pets and wildlife? Purchase or lease the Surge MitiGator and SECO will donate $5 to a pet or animal rescue or shelter of your choice. Read on for more details.

 

 

SECO News May 2021 Surgeo Loves Pets Through June 15

Surgeo Loves Pets – Through June 15

 

In February SECO News, Surgeo asked for members’ help in supporting domestic and wildlife shelters and rescues by enrolling in SECO Energy’s Surge MitiGator™. For every new MitiGator enrollment, SECO donates $5 to a local pet shelter in Citrus, Lake, Marion or Sumter Counties.

 

February through March, 1,120 members completed a new Surge MitiGator enrollment, which equaled a $5,600 donation divided among local pet and wildlife rescues.

 

Take the bite out of damaging surges and spikes with the Surge MitiGator. Surges are caused by lightning, vehicle accidents involving SECO facilities, small animals, birds or fallen trees. Power surges can damage or destroy household appliances and sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, stereo equipment and more.

 

SECO’s meter-based surge arrester helps prevent unnecessary financial loss by reducing surges BEFORE they enter your home through the meter. The Surge MitiGator has a beastly 15-year warranty and is designed to protect your home’s large-motor appliances.

 

You can lease the MitiGator for only $5.95 plus tax per month plus a $25 installation fee. The purchase price ranges from $349 to $399, with installation included.

 

Enroll in SECO’s Surge MitiGator™ to donate $5 to the shelter or rescue of your choice. Visit our Surge MitiGator website section and click on the enroll icon to fill out the webform and choose which pet shelter will receive a $5 donation on your behalf from SECO. The promotion ends June 15.

 

 

SECO News October 2020 EV Charger Winner!

EV Charger Winner

 

Kathy Ziegler from Ocala is the April winner of a SECO Energy branded JuiceBox Pro 40 EV Level 2 charger. We’re giving one charger away each month while supplies last. To enter, text “EV” to (352) 320-4500 for a link to enter. Or click on the EV Charger Giveaway homepage banner.

 

Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicle ownership on our EV website pages. You’ll find an EV savings calculator, information about CO2 reduction, an EV and PHEV model finder and a nationwide charger-finder map. Visit our Electric Vehicles website section for more details.

 

Watch SECO News for next month’s charger winner.

 

 

SECO News May 2021 Safety Corner Generator Safety

 

Safety Corner – Generator Safety

 

Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1. If you plan on using a portable or permanent generator as a source of back-up power during a power outage, learn to operate your generator correctly and safely before a storm impacts our service area.

 

Follow the safety warnings below to operate a generator.

 

• To protect yourself, your family, your property and SECO employees and contractors, read and follow the generator owner’s manual and pay close attention to the safety instructions.

 

• A qualified electrical contractor must install a permanent generator with a disconnect and transfer switch. This is NOT a DIY job.

 

• A qualified electrician is required to connect a generator to an electrical panel. An incorrect connection could electrocute the user or endanger our employees and contractors.

 

• Follow local, state and national fire and electric codes. A permit is required to install a permanent generator.

 

• Before starting your generator–always disconnect from your metered electric utility service.

 

• Never run a generator inside a building – even in a garage – it is a hazard and violates safety codes because it generates deadly (and odorless) carbon monoxide (CO).

 

• Be sure the area where a generator is operating is adequately ventilated, has sufficient airflow and is away from open windows.

 

• Store gasoline and diesel in approved containers out of the reach of children. Never fuel the generator while it is running.

 

• Extinguish all flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.

 

• Stage a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.

 

• Use extension cords free of exposed wires and frayed shielding.

 

• Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.

 

• Do not attempt to repair a generator. A qualified technician should perform repairs and service as needed.

 

• Generator engine parts are very hot during operation. Severe burns may result. Always keep children away.

 

Improper use or installation of an electric generator can cause property damage, severe injury or even death. Members who use a generator to operate life-saving equipment should verify the generator’s compatibility. Learn more about proper generator use and safety tips; view our generator safety video on our website.

 

 

SECO News May 2021 Generator Safety Word Search

 

Generator Safety Word Search

 

A generator may come in handy during storm season. Make a commitment to safety while running a generator to protect you, your family and SECO employees and contractors.

 

May 2021 SECO News Word Search

 

 

SECO News May 2021 PCA Adjustment

 

PCA Adjustment

 

The commodities market is changing, and natural gas prices are rising. This affects fuel costs associated with producing power at Seminole Electric Cooperative’s natural gas plants. In turn, those costs are passed along to SECO members with the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) factor line item on the monthly electric bill. On May 1, the SECO Energy PCA changed to keep pace with the market and wholesale power costs. The result is the cost of 1,000 kilowatt hours increased from $116.90 to $121.00

 

Need help paying your bill? View our interactive map to find an agency in your area.

 

 

SECO News February 2021 Winners' Circle

 

Winners’ Circle

 

Have you engaged with our virtual assistant Electra who can answer thousands of calls without missing a beat? Ask Electra for assistance instead of waiting to speak with a representative. Each week, we’ll draw one winner who will receive a $25 gift card. Winners are drawn from all members who called and successfully took care of business with Electra.

 

Winners Are:

 

Jeffrey Moody from Umatilla

 

Dona Macomber from Webster

 

Peter Cockcroft from Bushnell

 

Francis Campbell from Clermont

 

Winners in our Go Green and Win: Paperless Billing and Bank Draft incentive.

 

Josh McIntyre from Lake Panasoffkee is the winner of a $200 SECO Energy bill credit.

 

Thomas Binkley from Clermont is the winner of a NEST thermostat.

 

Jacob Dickman from Ocala is the winner of an Amazon Echo Dot with Alexa.

 

Read Winners’ Circle next month for more winners.

 

 

SECO News October 2020 StormCenter

 

StormCenter

 

Before the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, enroll in StormCenter outage notifications via email, text, voice messages or all three.

 

StormCenter identifies the service locations affected by an outage and proactively sends a notification with the estimated restoration time, crew status and more. Once service is restored, you’ll receive a message that includes the outage cause if known. You can set do not disturb times if you don’t want to be called in the middle of the night about an outage or restoration. To choose notification preferences, visit StormCenter on the website and click on the Manage Notifications tab.

 

Reporting a new outage or checking the status of an existing outage with your smartphone or tablet is easy. Click “Report Outage” and enter the account holder’s last name and house number (or the account or phone number). Find the status of an existing outage on the Check Status tab.

 

Read the full May SECO News online.

SECO Energy District 9 Members Elect Morgan Hatfield

SECO Energy members who reside in District 9 elected Morgan Hatfield as the new Trustee on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting was held in the District on Thursday, February 11, at Spring Creek Elementary School in Paisley for the purpose of electing a Trustee to represent District 9 on SECO’s Board of Trustees.

 

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.

 

Along with Morgan Hatfield, Charles Castro of Tavares, Egor Emery of Eustis, Timothy Henke of Mount Dora, Crystal Jones of Eustis and Zackery Snaidman of Paisley each submitted a letter of intent to run for Trustee in January. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections as the cooperative continues to hold District Meetings as a means of electing Trustees. A drive-thru voting option was available for members to practice social distancing and to reduce the size of the indoor meeting.

 

A SECO member since 2019, Ms. Hatfield graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in finance. She is a Senior Wealth Advisor with Ruggie Wealth Management. Ms. Hatfield has been ranked as a five-star professional wealth manager and has served as Vice President of the 2019 Leadership Lake County.

 

Ms. Hatfield is excited to begin her SECO Energy Board service. Hatfield stated, “I want to share my appreciation for all of the District 9 members who attended the District Meeting and cast a vote. Thank you for trusting me as your District 9 Trustee. I look forward to serving the SECO membership in my role as Trustee and working with my fellow Board members.”

 

Board president Richard Dennison stated, “Congratulations, Ms. Hatfield, on your election as District 9 Trustee. On behalf of my fellow Board officers and peers, we welcome you and look forward to working with you to ensure SECO Energy’s future success.”

 

Jim Duncan CEO stated, “Ms. Hatfield, I appreciate your willingness to serve as District 9 Trustee. I applaud your dedication to your neighboring members and to the success of SECO Energy. Thank you District 9 members for participating in the cooperative’s democratic process by attending our District 9 Meeting to elect a Trustee for the SECO Board.”

 

To view a brief bio of SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees and a District boundaries map, visit our Board of Trustees page. “Like” SECO on Facebook and “follow” @SECOEnergy on Twitter for news releases and cooperative updates.