The POWER of participation: Why cooperative members should run for their board of trustees

Districts 1, 6, and 9 are up for election in 2026

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Posted on Oct 16 2025 in Paulding Putnam

In todays rapidly changing energy landscape where federal policy, power grids, and technology continue to evolve electric cooperatives remain essential in delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable power to rural communities. What makes co-ops like Paulding Putnam unique is their structure: member-owned, not-for-profit organizations that rely on active participation from the people they serve.

Paulding Putnam isnt just your electric provider were also bringing high-speed fiber internet to our members and community. And one of the most meaningful ways members can help shape both our electric and broadband future is by running for a seat on the board of trustees.

Community representation

Board members are the direct link between the co-op and its members. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our board is made up of people who live right here, ensuring decisions reflect the priorities and needs of local families and businesses.

Influencing policy

Serving on the board gives you a voice in shaping the cooperatives path forward whether thats advancing renewable energy, adopting new technologies, or supporting sustainability initiatives that benefit both our community and the environment.

Ensuring fair rates

The board plays a key role in setting electric rates. Trustees work to balance affordability for members with the financial health of the cooperative, ensuring fairness and stability for households and businesses alike.

Supporting local development

Beyond delivering electricity, Paulding Putnam invests in projects that strengthen our regions future. From expanding broadband access through fiber internet to encouraging job growth and supporting infrastructure, trustees help champion initiatives that make a lasting difference in the places we call home.

Serving on the board is more than a leadership role its an opportunity to guide the future of your cooperative and create real impact for your neighbors and community.

Opportunity to serve

Paulding Putnams board elections will be held in February 2026, with results announced at our virtual annual meeting on March 28, 2026. Districts 1, 6, and 9 are up for election in 2026:

  • District 1: Seat held by Joseph Kohnen and includes Marion, Madison, Monroe, Preble, and Union Townships in Allen and Adams Counties, Indiana.
  • District 6: Seat held by Dr. John Saxton includes Auglaize, Brown, Latty, and Washington Townships in Paulding County, Ohio; Defiance and Highland Townships in Defiance County, Ohio.
  • District 9: Seat held by Dr. Ronald Black includes Sugarcreek, Pleasant, Union, Ottawa, and Riley Townships in Putnam County, Ohio

The official petition packet to run for the board will become available on Nov. 17 on our website. You can also request a copy be mailed to you, or pick one up from our office as well. If you get 20 signatures of support from co-op members in your district and return the official Paulding Putnam petition form by Dec. 17, 2025, you are eligible to be a candidate for election.

To learn more about PPECs director election process, please visit PPEC.coop or contact our office at 800-686-2357.