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SECO News May 2023

Dear Members,

 

SECO Energy is continually working to expand its online interactive tools to engage with you through new platforms and increase member engagement. I invite you to log on to SECOEnergy.com > Newsroom > System Improvement Map to view one of our latest resources.

 

RELIABILITY PROJECTS MAP

With SECO crews or contractors spread throughout our 2,100-square-mile service area, the System Improvement Map displays when and where crews are working on projects that improve service reliability and maintain existing infrastructure. The map also displays recently completed projects.

 

Want to know if we are working in your area? Input your service address in the search bar and click on your address when it appears. The map displays your location. Use the zoom plus/minus buttons to view events occurring in your area that improve reliability and maintain our expanding electric system.

 

Vegetation management assessments, tree trimming, facilities inspections, pole replacements, substation voltage conversions, area light work, underground equipment maintenance and other projects that improve the quality of your electric service are shown on the Reliability Projects tab. To learn more about a project, click its corresponding icon on the map that shows work type, status, and project duration. The “Additional Info” hyperlink provides more details, including possible planned outages for crews to work safely.

 

EXPANSION PROJECTS MAP

SECO Energy’s electric facilities investment has grown to over $1 billion. With Florida’s population boom, we’re not slowing down. The Expansion Projects tab displays where we are building new infrastructure to support growth. You’ll see icons for new and upgraded radio communication towers, substation upgrades and fiber installations.

 

The Expansion Projects map shows two substations under construction. The first in South Lake County near Clermont, called Sawgrass, will handle the booming growth in that area. The second substation, Landstone, is in Sumter County for The Villages, which continues its expansion.

 

If you have questions about Reliability or Expansion Projects, click the FAQ tab or use the Contact Us tab to drop us a line. Follow us on social media for cooperative events, promotions, prize drawings and news releases.

 

COMMUNICATIONS BY EMAIL, TEXT OR VOICE

Our interactive maps are complemented by a communications system that generates emails, text and/ or voice notifications to proactively alert you when crews are conducting a system improvement project in your locale. View or update your communications preferences by visiting SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter > Manage Notifications. Atlantic hurricane season arrives June 1, be sure your contact information and communications preferences are updated to receive outage alerts.

 

Best regards,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 


 

SECO News May 2023 Safety Corner - Generator Safety

SAFETY CORNER: GENERATOR SAFETY

Learn how to use a generator properly and safely if you plan to use a portable or stationary generator as a backup power source during a power outage. Become familiar with the generator, read and follow the owner’s manual and safety instructions prior to operation. Always test the equipment at the start of hurricane season.Generator Safety QR code link

 

    • A qualified electrical contractor must install the generator with a disconnect and transfer switch and should perform repairs or service.
    • An incorrect connection to an electrical panel could electrocute the user or endanger our employees and contractors.
    • A permit is required to install a permanent generator and only a qualified electrician should perform the work.
    • Prior to running your generator, always disconnect it from your metered electric utility service.
    • Never run a portable generator indoors or in a garage; operate it only in well-ventilated areas away from open windows. Generators create deadly, odorless carbon monoxide (CO).
    • Store fuel away from children in approved containers. Do not fuel the generator while it is running. Extinguish flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.
    • Keep a charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.
    • Use undamaged and appropriately gauged extension cords.
    • Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.
    • Generator engines become very hot during operation. Severe burns may result through contact. Keep children away.

 

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

 


 

SECO News May 2023 PCA Adjustments

POWER COST ADJUSTMENT

The Price of Energy is DECREASING on Bills Calculated After May 1.

 

As our CEO Curtis Wynn reported in his March 23 Annual Meeting update, SECO forecasted a positive Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) in the coming months. The natural gas market (the main fuel used to generate power) has been volatile during the last year. The PCA, titled “Power Cost ADJ” on your billing statement, allows SECO to adjust for the rise or fall of fuel costs in real-time.

 

For several months, members who have used 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity during a billing cycle were charged an additional $15 to cover the PCA. On May 1, the PCA decreases to zero. Effectively, adjustments to the energy rate, customer charge and PCA result in a $9 decrease for an average residential bill using 1,000 kWh.

 


 

SECO Energy Foundation

SECO Energy Foundation

 

The SECO Energy Foundation’s mission is to fund grants for Bill Payment Assistance, Energy-related Projects, Educational STEM Projects, Scholarships, Veterans’ Initiatives, Public Safety Programs, Environmental Projects, and Health and Human Services initiatives. The three grants issued thus far in 2023 support Public Safety, Health and Human Services, and Environmental causes.

 

MARION COUNTY FIRE RESCUE (MCFR)

 

The Foundation awarded $5,319 to equip three MCFR fire engines with updated material. The improved equipment empowers the rescue team to respond to emergency calls, provide civic services, and protect a team of first responders who risk their lives to help the community in the event of a fire, rescue, or medical emergency.

 

Marion County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Henry Herrera expressed, “The Marion County Fire Rescue team is thankful for the grant award that will help MCFR to respond to and provide service and protection to Marion County residents. The grant will purchase needed equipment to meet new challenges the MCFR team faces in responding to fire, rescue and medical emergencies.”

 

FIND, FEED & RESTORE

 

Joining in the fight to help homeless families, the SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $2,500 grant to Find, Feed & Restore to support the Restore Lake Project. The Restore Lake Project provides temporary housing for ten to 14 local families with children. Find, Feed & Restore provides transitional, free and permanent housing, as well as women’s mental health and domestic violence centers in Lake County.

 

Find, Feed & Restore Vice President of Development Stephen Shylkofski applauded the Foundation’s support, saying, “We are thankful for the opportunity to build on the partnership with the SECO Energy Foundation to grow our programs in Lake and Sumter Counties. Along with the SECO Energy Foundation and our other community partners, we can achieve our goal of eradicating homelessness from our communities.”

 

TROUT LAKE NATURE CENTER

A $22,000 grant to support Environmental Initiatives was awarded to the Trout Lake Nature Center (TLNC). The funding will aid TLNC, a nonprofit 501c3 corporation, in rebuilding a portion of a vital boardwalk that crosses the 230-acre preserve. In the past eight years, the Trout Lake Nature Center has hosted over 500 field trips and reached 215,708 students.

 

Trout Lake Nature Center’s Executive Director, Eileen Tramontana, shared, “People from throughout SECO’s service area come to TLNC. Almost every visitor uses the boardwalk, and most education programs do also. Renovating this boardwalk should have a significant impact on education efforts at TLNC.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is funded primarily by members who round their bills up to the nearest dollar. The average donation is $6 per year. The Foundation can also apply for grants that align with the SECO Energy Foundation’s goals.

 

Members who wish to discontinue rounding up to donate the extra pennies to the Foundation can visit SECOEnergy.com > Contact. You can also log into SmartHub and change your enrollment status, email CustomerService@SECOEnergy.com, call (352) 793-3801 or write to SECO Energy, Attn: Corp Comm, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585.

 


 

SECO News May 2023 Hurricane Season Forecast: A Message From District 8 Trustee Bill James

THE ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON IS FAST APPROACHING.

NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE FOR THE START OF THE SEASON ON JUNE 1.

WE URGE ALL MEMBERS TO HAVE THEIR HURRICANE SUPPLIES READY AND A PLAN IN PLACE FOR THE SAFETY OF LOVED ONES AND PROPERTY.
DON’T DISREGARD THE WARNINGS BEFORE A STORM HITS. THOSE WHO PREPARE REDUCE THE CHANCES OF LIFE-THREATENING CONDITIONS.

 

Looking ahead to this year’s hurricane season, Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project Forecast summarized 2023 will have slightly below-average activity. They forecast this hurricane season will be close to the historical average, with 13 named storms. Not to be overlooked is their estimate that two storms will be major hurricanes (Category 3 and above).

 

SECO Energy is StormReady and prepared to respond to outages caused by summer thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes. Members can report a new power outage and check the status of a current outage via StormCenter 24/7 using a mobile device or call our automated IVR phone assistant.

 

If a member of your family has special needs, add your name to the Special Needs Registry at www.FloridaDisaster.org and review shelter, evacuation and emergency services details. SECO Energy’s restoration priorities are feeders that serve shelters, schools, hospitals and government/ public safety facilities. Next, we focus on restoring service to feeders with the highest member count. Those who require continuous electric service for life-sustaining medical equipment should have a backup power source or prepare to evacuate to a shelter.

 

Essential supplies disappear quickly when a hurricane approaches. For help getting started with a supply plan, review our Hurricane Handbook at SECOEnergy.com > Safety > Hurricane Handbook.

 

 

SECO Energy Board of Trustees Elects 2023 Officers

SECO Energy Board of Trustees elected its 2023 Officers during the March Trustee meeting. District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson was re-elected Board President, Scott Boyatt District 1 Trustee was re-elected as Board Vice President and District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield was elected Secretary/Treasurer.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. Members from each District elect a fellow member for a three-year term to represent them on the SECO Board of Trustees. 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. 

 

Board President

District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson was re-elected Board President for a second 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. He earned his Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), his Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and his Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) in 2021.  

 

Board President Anderson said he is pleased to be involved with a group of such dedicated leaders. “I am humbled, honored, and thankful to the Trustees for their confidence in electing me President for another term. It’s exciting to work with such a diverse, well-educated Board and staff to chart the next course for SECO Energy. Our Board is well prepared to tackle what may prove to be the most challenging electric cooperative business environment of any generation.” 

 

Board Vice President

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), the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC), and has achieved Director Gold Credentials from the NRECA. 

 

Mr. Boyatt stated, “Through my Board of Trustees service, I look forward to helping guide SECO Energy through the remarkable growth in our service area as we support SECO’s Strategy Map.”  

 

Board Secretary/Treasurer

District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield joins the Officers as its Secretary/Treasurer and has served on the Board of Trustees since 2021. Ms. Hatfield successfully completed her Credentialed Cooperative Director’s Certificate (CCD), the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) and her Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (NRECA).  

 

Ms. Hatfield stated, “It is an honor to serve my neighbors and fellow SECO Energy members through my service on the Board of Trustees. It is especially meaningful to begin serving in an Officer position as Secretary/Treasurer.” 

 

CEO Curtis Wynn’s Comments

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn applauded the commitment of the Board and its vision. “I truly believe we have a Board of Trustees that is in total alignment with the Mission, Vision, and Core Values of SECO. These three Officers have demonstrated their dedication to improving their fiduciary oversight and industry knowledge. We all benefit from their service and are grateful for their efforts.” 

 

The NRECA offers a Director Certification Program for not-for-profit electric cooperative Trustees. It aims to help participants understand their roles and responsibilities and stay up to date on important issues and energy trends while preparing them to meet the challenges facing electric cooperatives now and in the future. The DGC recognizes directors/trustees seeking a credential that confirms their ongoing dedication to extending their knowledge and fulfilling their fiduciary duty in cooperative governance with the highest standards. 

 

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 News April 2023

Dear Members,

 

Did you watch SECO Energy’s 85th Annual Meeting on March 23? Were you one of our 100 prize winners? Watch our Annual Meeting video on SECOEnergy.com to see the list of 100 prize winners to find out if you are a winner. The video is also available on Facebook and YouTube. 

 

Learn more about the Strategy Map, new Mission, Vision and Core Values that take SECO into the future. The energy industry is changing, and SECO has developed an approach to remain focused on our core business, manage the fast-paced changes and rising costs in our industry, operate more efficiently, increase member engagement and overcome labor and supply chain shortages. 

 

We are investing in operational technologies that help us reduce costs by lowering our need to purchase more energy to serve growing demand. A foundational technology investment is the systemwide implementation of an advanced meter infrastructure or AMI. This technology will offer updated SmartHub features, insight into your energy costs and actionable data that will help you manage your usage. 

 

Own an electric vehicle (EV)?  Pre-enroll in an EV $7 monthly incentive effective May 1 for members who agree to charge their EVs during Super Off-Peak hours (midnight – 6 a.m.). Learn more about the EV Fast Charger lease or purchase program, I again encourage you to watch the Annual Meeting video and visit SECOEnergy.com for details.  

 

In my 40 years of utility experience, I have never seen the supply chain issues, rising costs and labor constraints that we are experiencing in the current economy. Unfortunately, even as a not-for-profit utility, we are not immune to the economic downturn that started in 2020 with COVID and developed into runaway inflation these past two years. Costs have risen dramatically on nearly everything we purchase to maintain our existing electric system and construct new services.  An increase to members’ bills is simply unavoidable. Read more about the customer charge change on page 4 and learn more about the reasons for it in the Annual Meeting video.   

 

Thank you, members, for participating in the governance process of your cooperative! We received a total of 14,375 votes on Annual Meeting business this year.  Members voted to approve the Bylaws revision and the 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes.  

 

Watch our Annual Meeting video for the full update. Thank you for your SECO Energy membership.  

 

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 


 

SECO News April 2023 Right Tree, Right Place: a Message from District 7 Trustee Joseph Kusiak

Right Tree, Right Place: a Message from District 7 Trustee Joseph Kusiak

 

Trees planted in the right place can help you reduce your energy consumption. According to the Department of Energy (DOE) (www.Energy.gov), trees planted around homes and buildings can reduce energy consumption for HVAC by 25%. 

 

The DOE’s computer models predict planting only three trees in the right place can reduce a household’s energy costs by as much as $250 annually. Trees planted to the south, southwest or west side of structures lowers cooling costs in the summer. Plant trees to the north and west to block fall and winter winds.

 

When planting trees, maintain a clear zone of 15 feet on each side of an overhead power line. Trees growing too close to power lines can cause sparks, fires, power outages and shock hazards. Consider the tree’s mature height before planting. Trees that grow to a mature height of 40 feet or higher should be planted at least 50 feet away from power lines. Small trees or shrubs that will not exceed 25 feet are best planted closer to lines but outside the clear zone.

 

Practice safe digging – call 811 before you dig. 811 is a free service that locates underground utility lines. In Florida, call 811 – it’s the law.

 


 

SECO News APRIL 2023 Spring Energy Efficiency Tips: A message from District 1 Board of Trustee and Vice President Scott Boyatt

Spring Energy Efficiency Tips: A Message from Board of Trustees Vice President and District 1 Trustee Scott Boyatt

 

The sun is out, and temperatures are on the rise. Add energy-efficiency items to your to-do list. Use these spring energy-efficiency tips and ideas to reduce your energy consumption and lower your bill.

 

  1. Invest in a programmable thermostat. Per the Department of Energy, use the thermostat’s pre-programmed settings to save as much as 10% on cooling and heating costs yearly. 
  2. During the warmer months, set the thermostat no lower than 78 degrees. 
  3. Use cold water when possible.
  4. Fans cool people, not rooms.
  5. Turn off lights that are not in use.
  6. Replace older lightbulbs with LEDs.
  7. Make the most of natural light.
  8. Wash a whole load of laundry – a half load uses the same amount of energy – and wash in cold water.
  9. Unplug items such as TVs, computers, printers and phone chargers – these all use small amounts of energy when not in use. Invest in power strips.
  10. Grill outside or use small appliances such as crock pots, air fryers or toaster ovens.

 

Complete SECO Energy’s Home Energy Assessment for an online home energy audit and Energy Estimator for energy-efficiency solutions tailored to your home and lifestyle. Visit SECOEnergy.com > Energy Solutions.

 


 

SECO Energy Foundation

SECO Energy Foundation

 

Helping people in need and reducing costs are critical in today’s economic environment. Our ability to help disadvantaged members, reduce our carbon footprint and lower costs for all members will be impacted by the new Foundation’s mission which is to fund grants for bill payment assistance, energy-related projects, educational STEM projects, scholarships, Veterans initiatives, public safety programs, environmental projects, and health and human services initiatives.

 

Local United Ways and social service agencies that receive grant dollars approved by the Foundation Board of Directors manage the funds for bill payment assistance. These agencies assess need and decide which members receive bill payment assistance. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit 501c3 entity funded largely through SECO’s electric bill round-up program. It can be supplemented by grants the Foundation applies for through other private and federal funding programs that align with the Foundation’s goals. Participating members’ extra pennies are donated to the Foundation to make a difference in members’ lives across the communities served by SECO Energy. 

 

To learn more about the Foundation or update your enrollment status, visit SECOEnergy.com/Foundation.

 

 


 

SECO News April 2023 Effective May 1st

Customer Charge Increase Effective May 1

 

The economic downturn that began in 2020 with COVID has developed into runaway inflation. SECO Energy is not immune to the economic downturn, even as a not-for-profit utility. We continue to battle supply and labor shortages, and the price for every item we stock to build new infrastructure and maintain our over one-billion-dollar electric system has increased dramatically. 

 

In a recent cost-of-service study presented to the Board of Trustees in the February meeting, these rising fixed costs were formalized, and a customer charge increase is needed. 

 

Effective on bills calculated after May 1, the monthly customer charge increases from $1 per day (roughly $30 per month) to $34.50 per billing cycle. SECO’s rates remain very competitive compared to investor-owned and municipal utilities in our area, across the state and nationwide.

 

SECO Energy’s 2022 Capital Budget was $76,520,000 but necessarily increased to $119,795,800 to cover these rising costs in 2023. Costs to members must increase accordingly.

 

The customer charge is the line-item fee on monthly billing statements that collects for the fixed costs of providing service.

 

Learn more about the customer charge increase from our CEO in the Annual Meeting video at SECOEnergy.com or YouTube. 

 

 

 

 

Read the full April 2023 SECO News online.

 

SECO Energy Trustee Shannon Wright Earns Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy District 5 Trustee Shannon Wright has successfully completed the requirements to earn the Director Gold Credential (DGS) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

 

According to the NRECA, the DGC recognizes directors/trustees who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability. The DGC offers a continuing education path for directors/trustees beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC).

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric utility operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. Trustees are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on SECO Energy’s 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 Wright resides in Lake Panasoffkee and has been a SECO Energy member since 2014. She was elected to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees in 2022.

 

Mrs. Wright stated, “I am proud to join the other Board Trustees who have achieved the Director Gold Credential from the NRECA. This process has equipped me to better serve not just the SECO Energy members I represent in District 5, but our electric cooperative as a whole. My experience as a SECO Energy Trustee has been a rewarding one.”

 

CEO Curtis Wynn extended his congratulations to Trustee Wright, expressing his enthusiasm for the industry knowledge enrichment undertaken by the Board Trustee. “Congratulations, Mrs. Wright, on achieving the NRECA’s Director Gold Credential. Your commitment to the NRECA educational path is a benefit to SECO Energy, its members and the Board of Trustees. Thank you for expanding your preparedness to serve at such a high level.”

 

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.

 

Members Tuned in for SECO Energy’s 85th Annual Meeting

SECO Energy members tuned in virtually for the Cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting on March 23, 2023. SECO Energy Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson and CEO Curtis Wynn presented their reports to members in a virtual meeting that streamed on the energy cooperative’s website, Facebook Live and YouTube. Members who missed the meeting can view the Annual Meeting video on YouTube.

 

Florida statute requires the Meeting to be held annually, and a quorum was achieved by member participation in voting on Annual Meeting business – a process that closed when President Anderson called the Meeting to order. In total, member voting participation reached 14,375 – which is record-high participation in Annual Meeting business from members across every part of the service territory. Members voted to approve both the 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes and a Bylaws revision establishing virtual online Annual Meetings as the delivery platform moving forward.

 

CEO Curtis Wynn shared updates related to operation costs, efficiency initiatives, growth projections, and SECO Energy Foundation funding and grant activities.

 

GROWTH

 

SECO’s 15.5% electric service membership growth between 2017 and 2022 is expected to continue. Wynn stated, “At today’s growth rate, SECO will hit the 250,000-member mark quickly, and may step up to be the largest electric Cooperative in Florida.” With over 230,000 members, SECO is currently the third-largest electric cooperative in Florida and the seventh largest in the country.

 

CORPORATE INITIATIVES

 

Wynn revealed a recently launched multi-year Strategy Map outlining SECO’s Mission, Vision, and updated Core Values that include Safety, Member Commitment, Honesty and Integrity, Accountability, Teamwork and an Inclusive Culture. Wynn said, “Our employees embody these traits, and we look for these characteristics when we hire new team members.”

 

EFFICIENCY INITIATIVES

 

While wholesale power costs continue to rise, SECO’s Technology Roadmap outlines current and future innovations to increase efficiency at SECO. The Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project began a test period in early March. After data is analyzed, the systemwide implementation will continue, with a goal of replacing 7,000 to 9,000 meters each month until completion in three to four years. Combined with the new AMI meters, SECO’s SmartHub online account management interface will offer unprecedented energy usage information to members.

 

Efforts to elevate online member service were highlighted during the meeting. SECO’s Home Energy Assessment and Energy Estimator are online energy-efficiency tools found on SECOEnergy.com. The Home Energy Assessment is an online home energy audit, while the Energy Estimator calculates estimated energy usage from all sources in the home.

 

Also cited was the cooperative’s commitment to in-home electric vehicle charging, in which an EV Level 2 fast charger may be either leased or purchased and installed at a member’s premises. SECO is also accepting pre-enrollments in an EV monthly incentive program for members who agree to charge their electric vehicles during Super Off-Peak hours (midnight to 6 a.m.). More information about both EV offerings can be found at SECOEnergy.com.

 

COSTS AND BUDGET

 

Costs are rising at an astronomical rate. Even as a not-for-profit utility, SECO Energy is not immune to inflation and the economic downturn that began in 2020. As a result of rising costs. SECO reported an unprecedented increase in its 2023 capital budget. In 2022, the capital budget totaled $76,520,000; for 2023, SECO necessarily increased the capital budget by 57% to equal $119,795,000 to cover rising costs.

 

In response to the cost increases, CEO Wynn announced an increase to the customer charge effective May 1 to $34.50 per billing cycle. The monthly line-item fee is meant to fund the fixed costs of providing electric service. CEO Wynn added, “It became painfully clear that SECO cannot avoid a customer charge increase.”

 

A projection of wholesale fuel cost reductions paints a brighter outlook for members. Wynn said, if realized, the outlook may provide an opportunity to “positively impact” members’ bills.

 

SECO ENERGY FOUNDATION

 

The SECO Energy Foundation approved its first three grants in the first quarter 2023. These included transitional housing support in Lake County, the purchase of fire truck equipment for Marion County and the replacement of a Trout Lake Nature Center boardwalk in the Eustis area. The SECO Energy Foundation also accepted applications for scholarships from high school seniors in the first quarter.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is proving to be a successful source of grant funding support for the communities SECO serves. But the Cooperative understands that rounding up one’s electric bill to the next even dollar to support the Foundation is a personal choice. Mr. Wynn reviewed the many ways members can discontinue supporting the Foundation if that is their desire.

 

The Annual Meeting concluded with the announcement of the 100 prize winners. All members who voted on Annual Meeting business were eligible to win. Members can view the Annual Meeting video to learn if they were a prize winner by visiting SECOEnergy.com or its YouTube channel.

 

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 News March 2023

 

Dear Members,

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative operated for and owned by its members. Our business model requires and encourages member participation in District and Annual Meetings. One of the seven cooperative principles is Democratic Member Control which gives members a voice in the cooperative’s governance process. 

 

Our service area covers 2,100-square miles and is divided into nine Districts. SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees is a nine-member Board. One member from each District is elected by the members in that District to serve a three-year term.  

 

Collectively, the Board of Trustees represents the membership as a whole and meets monthly to monitor the cooperative’s financial status. The Board provides fiduciary and policy-making oversight to serve the best interests of the membership at large.  

 

This year SECO Energy held three District Meetings (Districts 2, 4, and 6) for members to elect a Trustee to serve on the Board. 

 

In District 2, four candidates submitted letters of intent to run. From those candidates, members re-elected incumbent Joyce Anderson as the District 2 Trustee. Mrs. Anderson has been a SECO member since 2017 and was first elected to the Board in 2020. She has earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), which is its highest Trustee accreditation. Mrs. Anderson also currently serves on the Board as Secretary-Treasurer. 

 

In District 4, members re-elected incumbent Richard Dennison as the District 4 Trustee. Mr. Dennison was first elected to the Board in 2015 and has been a SECO member since 1999. He too has earned the Director Gold Credential from the NRECA. 

 

Mr. Dennison has served previously as Board Vice President and President.  

 

In District 6, members re-elected incumbent Mike Muffett as the District 6 Trustee. Mr. Muffett was first elected to the Board in 2020 and has been a SECO member since 1984. He also has earned the Director Gold Credential from the NRECA.     

 

Please join the SECO team in congratulating Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Dennison and Mr. Muffett on their re-elections to the SECO Energy Board of Trustees. We look forward to continuing to support SECO Energy’s Mission, Vision and Core Values through the execution of our Strategy Map. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 

Gerald Anderson

President, Board of Trustees

 


 

SECO Energy Foundation

SECO Energy Foundation

 

In January we launched the SECO Energy Foundation as an enhancement to our existing Pennies from Heaven. The Foundation is funded by members who round up their bills to the nearest dollar. The average donation is $6 annually. 

 

The enrollment mode changed in January from opt-in to opt-out. This decision was made with much forethought, research and more than anything, with strong consideration for improving the quality of life in the communities we serve. Like Pennies from Heaven, the Foundation will be funded largely through SECO’s electric bill round-up program. As a tax exempt nonprofit 501c3 entity, the Foundation can also apply for grants through other local, state and federal funding programs that align with SECO Energy’s and the Foundation’s goals.   

 

Just like Pennies from Heaven, participating members’ pennies are donated to the Foundation to fund grants and bill payment assistance that make a difference in the lives of members across the communities we serve. The SECO Energy Foundation will have more funding for our United Way partners and social service agencies to apply toward bill payment assistance for members in need and will also fund the scholarship program starting this year.  Equally important, the Foundation will also be able to accept a variety of grant applications that support SECO Energy initiatives outlined in our Strategy Map. 

 

SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees voted in March 2022 to create the Foundation and change the enrollment method. SECO Energy incorporated the SECO Energy Foundation, Inc. and it has complied with IRS and Florida’s Check a Charity registration requirements. Foundation Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation were filed appropriately and are posted on our website. Our research showed that an opt-out enrollment is becoming more mainstream.  

 

Contributions are tax-deductible for members who donate and allow the Foundation (as a nonprofit entity) to apply for grants from other local, state and federal sources. Grants may include investments in first responder equipment, energy-efficiency grants for low-income communities and senior/youth centers. 

 

Helping people in need and reducing costs are critical in today’s economic environment but we understand that supporting the Foundation is a personal choice. Any Pennies unknowingly/unintentionally donated will be fully refunded upon member request.  

 

If you want to stop your bill from rounding up to donate the extra pennies to the Foundation, visit SECOEnergy.com > Contact > SECO Energy Foundation. You can log into SmartHub and change your enrollment status, email CustomerService@SECOEnergy.com, call (352) 793-3801 or write to SECO Energy, Attn: Corp Comm, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585. 

 

Our ability to help disadvantaged members, to reduce our carbon footprint and lower costs for all members will be impacted by the Foundation’s focus on supporting SECO’s energy-efficiency initiatives. 

Read the full March 2023 SECO News online.

 

SECO Energy District 4 Members Re-elect Trustee Richard Dennison

SECO Energy members who reside in District 4 re-elected Richard Dennison as the District 4 Trustee to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting was held in the District on Tuesday, February 7, at the Marion Oaks Community Center in Marion County for the purpose of electing a Trustee to represent District 4 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.

 

Trustee Dennison submitted a letter of intent to run for Trustee and was unopposed in his candidacy. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections; therefore, the cooperative continues to hold District Meetings as a means of electing Trustees. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience.

 

A SECO member since 1999, Mr. Dennison was first elected to SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in 2015. Trustee Dennison has served as both Board of Trustees Vice President and President. He has also participated in continuing education classes through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) to maintain his Director Gold Credential which is the highest Trustee accreditation from the NRECA.

 

Trustee Dennison looks forward to a new three-year term working with SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Dennison stated, “Thank you to all District 4 members who attended the meeting. We are thankful for your SECO membership and your participation. I enjoy working with my community and fellow SECO members through my Board of Trustees service and look forward to promoting SECO and its successes.”

 

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Mr. Dennison, on your re-election as District 4 Trustee. On behalf of my fellow Board Officers and peers, we look forward to supporting SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

 

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “Mr. Dennison, the Board of Trustees and the SECO Energy membership are thankful for your Board service as District 4 Trustee. I congratulate you on your re-election and look forward to working with you and the Board for continued success at SECO Energy.”

 

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 District 2 Members Re-elect Trustee Joyce Anderson

SECO Energy members who reside in District 2 re-elected Joyce Anderson as the District 2 Trustee to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting was held on February 2 at the Sumter County School Board located within the District for the purpose of electing a Trustee to represent District 2 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.

 

Trustee Anderson along with Mr. Leon “Lee” N. Chitty of The Villages, Mr. Vincent Heuser of The Villages and Mr. Mark Moran also of The Villages all submitted a letter of intent to run for Trustee. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections; therefore, the cooperative continues to hold District Meetings as a means of electing Trustees. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience and to encourage participation.

 

A SECO member since 2017, Mrs. Anderson was first elected to SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in 2020. She has earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) which is the highest Trustee accreditation from the NRECA. Mrs. Anderson also serves in an officer position on the Board of Trustees as Secretary-Treasurer.

 

Trustee Anderson enjoys serving her fellow District 2 neighbors. Mrs. Anderson stated, “Thank you to all District 2 members who were able to attend the District Meeting and for once again entrusting me to serve as your Trustee. It has been my honor to serve as the District 2 Trustee for the last three years. I have enjoyed learning about SECO Energy, serving the membership as a whole and continuing my Board of Trustees education through the NRECA and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community.”

 

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Mrs. Anderson, on your re-election as District 2 Trustee. And I also thank the District 2 members who attended the Meeting and participated in our cooperative’s governance process. On behalf of my fellow Board Officers and peers, we are excited to support SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

 

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “Mrs. Anderson, the Board of Trustees and the SECO Energy membership is thankful for your Board service as District 2 Trustee. I congratulate you on your re-election and look forward to working with you and the Board for continued success at SECO Energy.”

 

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 News February 2023

 

Dear Members,

 

SECO Energy’s 85th Annual Meeting is being brought to you live via virtual webcast on Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m. Tune in to learn about our new Strategy and new Mission from me and Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson. Watch to find out if you are one of 100 prize winners. 

 

Look for your Official 2023 Annual Meeting Notice enclosed in billing statements from mid-February through early March. Your Notice will provide further details on the meeting and voting instructions.

 

To access the meeting, click on the Virtual Business Meeting homepage banner on SECOEnergy.com at 6 p.m. on March 23. Links to the webcast will be published on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

 

As SECO Energy’s member count increases, Virtual Annual Meetings allow us to reach more members through our live webcast, Member Engagement Panel (via phone and email) and interactions on social media. The Board of Trustees has voted to continue the practice of holding Annual Meetings virtually for cost-saving reasons and to make the meeting more inclusive. 

 

Once you receive your Official Notice, we need your vote on Annual Meeting business (and voting is how you enter the prize drawing as well)! This year the Board of Trustees has developed a short Bylaws Revision for membership vote. We also need approval of the 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes. Review the Bylaws Revision and the 2022 Annual Meetings by visiting SECOEnergy.com. Vote from February 10 until the start of the Annual Meeting on March 23 at 6 p.m.

 

After February 10, members without Internet access may pick up a copy of the proposed Bylaws Revision and 2022 Meeting Minutes at one of our five Member Service Centers and ask a Member Services Representative to cast their vote that enters them in the prize drawing.

 

Members can vote by mail or phone once they receive their Official Annual Meeting Notice. Voting opens on SECOEnergy.com on February 10, 2023. Click the Vote Now homepage banner. All members who cast a vote are counted as present in person for the determination of quorum as stated in the Bylaws Article III, Section E, #4.

 

We have 100 prizes up for grabs! All members who vote on Annual Meeting Business (Bylaws Revision and 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes) are eligible to win one of 100 prizes. The grand prizes are two golf carts, three $1,000 cash prizes, three Generac 7117 generators and two ChargePoint Level 2 EV Fast Chargers. Other prizes include SECO Energy electric bill credits, Wi-Fi programmable thermostats, smart power strips and more! Winners are announced at the close of the Annual Meeting and posted on the website that evening.  

 

Mark your calendar to tune in to our Virtual Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m. If you miss it, the meeting’s video will be posted on YouTube in April.  

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 


 

SECO News February 2023 Official Annual Meeting Notice

Official 2023 Annual Meeting Notice

 

Starting after February 10, watch your billing statement for your Official 2023 Annual Meeting Notice. You’ll find details about SECO Energy’s 85th Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 23. The meeting will be webcast at 6 p.m.

 

Listed in the Official Notice is the full list of 100 prizes that are up for grabs for members who vote on the Bylaws Revision that is proposed by the Board of Trustees and approve the 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes. Voting begins on February 10, until the meeting start time on March 23.

 

Also included in the Notice is the Meeting Agenda, voting ballot, a summary of the proposed Bylaws Revision, information about the Live Member Engagement Panel and more!

 


 

SECO News February 2023 Annual Meeting Agenda

Official 2023 Annual Meeting Agenda

 

Virtual Engagement Panel Opens for Questions

5 p.m. 

 

Business Meeting

6 p.m. 

 

Welcome and Call to Order 

Gerald Anderson President, Board of Trustees

 

Pledge of Allegiance 

Scott Boyatt Vice President, Board of Trustees

 

Invocation and Trustee Introductions  

Kathryn Gloria Vice President of Corporate Communications

 

Quorum Determination/2023 Notice Certification   

Joyce Anderson Secretary/Treasurer, Board of Trustees

 

President’s Report   

Gerald Anderson

 

Chief Executive Officer’s Report   

Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer

 

Member Vote Results & Certification   

Scott Gerken, Cooperative Attorney

 

Old Business/New Business    

Curtis Wynn

 

Adjournment   

Gerald Anderson

 

Virtual Prize Drawing    

Kathryn Gloria 

 

 


 

SECO News February 2023 Bylaws Revision Summary

Bylaws Revision Summary

This year, the Board of Trustees has proposed a Bylaws Revision and is requesting member votes for approval.

In order to better serve the membership, the proposed Bylaws revision would allow the Board of Trustees to make adequate plans and preparations for the Annual Meeting. Although the Board of Trustees has the authority to provide for a virtual Annual Meeting, the proposed revision would expressly set forth that provision in the Bylaws. 

 

The full text of the proposed revision may be obtained on or after February 10 by reviewing the red-line version of the Bylaws revision at SECOEnergy.com or visiting any SECO Energy Member Service Center or calling to request a mailed packet.  

 


 

SECO News February 2023 Live Member Engagement Panel

Live Member Engagement Panel

 

Do you have a comment or question for us? Engage with SECO Energy during the 2023 Virtual Annual Business Meeting, and your question or comment may be addressed live. 

You can get in touch with us via email before the meeting at SECO2023AM@SECOEnergy.com. Or on the day of the meeting, give us a call at (352) 329-MEET (answered on March 23 after 5 p.m. only) or send a message on Facebook or Twitter starting at 5 p.m. on March 23. 

 

If you have an account-specific question, please get in touch with Member Services at CustomerService@SECOEnergy.com. Our Member Services staff will follow up on any account-specific questions received. 

 

 


 

SECO News February 2023 Ways To Vote

Ways To Vote

 

Vote on Annual Meeting business for the chance to win one of 100 prizes! This year we have two items to vote on. The Board of Trustees has asked for the membership vote on a proposed Bylaws Revision. We also ask your approval of the 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes.

 

To review the proposed Bylaws Revision and 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes, visit SECOEnergy.com. For members without Internet access, you can stop by any of our five Member Service Centers to pick up a copy of the proposed Bylaws Revision and 2022 Annual Meeting Minutes. 

 

Voting opens on February 10. To cast your vote online, visit SECOEnergy.com  Your Co-op  Annual Meeting, or text “VOTE” to (352) 320-2200. 

 

The mail-in ballot will be included in the Official 2023 Annual Meeting Notice starting February 10. 

 

We look forward to seeing you virtually on Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m. for our 85th Annual Meeting! 

 

Read the full February 2023 SECO News online.

 

SECO Energy District 6 Members Re-elect Trustee Mike Muffett

SECO Energy members who reside in District 6 re-elected Mike Muffett as the District 6 Trustee to serve on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The meeting was held in the District on Tuesday, January 31, at the Village View Community Church in Marion County for the purpose of electing a Trustee to represent District 6 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.

 

Trustee Muffett submitted a letter of intent to run for Trustee and was unopposed in his candidacy. SECO’s Bylaws currently require that the cooperative hold District Meetings. Subsequently, Florida Statute requires SECO to hold in-person elections; therefore, the cooperative continues to hold District Meetings as a means of electing Trustees. A drive-thru voting option was available for members for added convenience, to encourage participation, to practice social distancing and to reduce the size of the indoor meeting.

 

A SECO member since 1984, Mr. Muffett was first elected to SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees in 2020. Trustee Muffett earned his Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The Director Gold Credential is the highest Trustee accreditation from the NRECA.

 

Trustee Muffett is grateful for the support of his fellow District 6 SECO Energy members. Mr. Muffett stated, “Thank you to all District 6 members who attended the District Meeting and participated in SECO Energy’s democratic voting process. I am grateful for the community support I have received from District 6 members and SECO’s membership as a whole. Serving my community through my SECO Energy Board of Trustees service is an honor.”

 

Board President Gerald Anderson stated, “Congratulations, Mr. Muffett, on your re-election as District 6 Trustee. Thank you to the District 6 members who attended the Meeting. On behalf of my fellow Board Officers and peers, we are excited to support SECO Energy’s Mission and Vision through our Board service.”

 

Curtis Wynn CEO stated, “Mr. Muffett, the Board of Trustees and the SECO Energy membership is thankful for your Board service as District 6 Trustee. I congratulate you on your re-election and look forward to working with you and the Board for continued success at SECO Energy.”

 

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.