KEM Electric Cooperative members and guests gathered in Linton at the Linton Civic Center for KEM Electric’s Annual Meeting on June 10. Upon arrival participants were welcomed and received an appreciation gift. Before the meeting began, folks enjoyed coffee and kuchen and could visit the operations and safety booth to register for an additional prize and learn about upcoming projects and safety initiatives.
As the business meeting began, KEM Electric Chairman, Victor J. Wald welcomed and thanked everyone for attending the Annual Meeting. Linton High School students Emma Sanders and Alexis Vetter led the membership in the National Anthem while the American Legion Post #54 of Linton presented the U.S. and ND flags. The membership voted to fill the board positions from District 3 and District-at-Large. Neil Meidinger from Zeeland was re-elected to represent District 3. Todd Schnabel from Lehr was elected to represent the District-at-Large position. Additionally, the membership voted to approve the 2024 Annual Meeting Minutes and a by-law amendment.
Members listened to cooperative updates from Co- General Managers/CEOs Travis Kupper and Jason Bentz and Chief Financial Officer Alex Craigmile. Department and program updates were also provided by Chief of Staff/Line Superintendent Dale Nagel and Manager of Member Relations Marcy Sanders. Susan Meidinger, vice-chairperson of the Operation Roundup Board, highlighted the charitable foundations 2024 giving.
Students who received scholarships from KEM Electric, as well as the Youth Tour recipient, Addyson Erbele, were recognized. Students who were awarded KEM Electric’s Touchstone Energy Student of the Month were also highlighted. Additionally, KEM Electric awarded two $500 Luck-of-the-Draw Scholarship to Lillian Mittleider from Kidder County High School and Lawson Nieuwsma from Strasburg High School.
Tom Bair, KEM Electric’s legal counsel, who is retiring, was also recognized during the meeting for his 40 years of dedication to the board of directors and cooperative.
After the business meeting, members enjoyed a complimentary meal made by Deb Schumacher and were awarded door prizes. Members also enjoyed cake and ice cream celebrating Bair’s retirement. Emmons County 4-H Club, Prairie Rascals, assisted members and guests with food, drinks and clean up during supper.
The board of directors, co-general managers and staff at KEM Electric wish to thank members, for participating in the annual meeting of the membership and look forward to providing electrical service in the future.