January 2022: News from your cooperative
“All politics is local.” This observation by the late Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill, Jr., former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, means that even national politics have a local impact, and people care most about issues that directly affect them. Indirectly, this famous adage underscores the importance and value of local politics.
At Powell Valley Electric Cooperative, we think it’s critical to develop and cultivate relationships with local legislators because they craft, introduce and vote on legislation that impacts the local business climate, the environment and quality of life for our community. That’s why we work closely with our local elected officials. After all, our purpose is to provide safe, reliable, affordable energy, but our mission is to help our community thrive.
Powell Valley Electric Cooperative is a local business that powers economic development and prosperity for our region. As a cooperative, we have deep roots here, and we listen closely to our members to better understand the needs of the community. Our leadership, board members and employees live and work right here in the community we serve.
We advocate for our community, ensuring that local legislators know, understand and act on the issues that are important to our area.
As a practical matter, we recognize that most legislators are “generalists,” yet they vote on a wide range of issues. Their expertise may not include the changing energy industry, which is why electric cooperatives provide guidance and expertise from subject matter experts who’ve been in the energy industry for many years.
Today’s energy landscape is an increasingly complex topic covering not only the traditional engineering and vegetation management aspects of the industry but also encompassing technology, cybersecurity, the electrification of the transportation sector and more.
Our experts provide briefings and background to legislators, committees and staff, and we offer pertinent information at hearings and other legislative or regulatory meetings or gatherings. And because we’re involved in economic development and know local community leaders, we can provide insight on how issues and policies under discussion might impact our region.
We strive to be a trusted resource on energy issues. Because of our deep roots in the community, we have a firm understanding of local issues and needs. We will continue looking after the long term interests of our consumer-members. This means we are able to cultivate and foster positive, productive relationships with legislators who know and trust us because we’re advocating on behalf of the community we serve.
We’re proud to power your life and bring good things to the community. We hope you’ll continue to advise Powell Valley Electric Cooperative on matters of importance so we can continue to advocate on your behalf and improve the quality of life for all.
-Brad Coppock
