Growing up co-op

By
Posted on Jan 25 2018 in Harrison REMC

David Lett

I like the feeling of being able to walk into my favorite locally-owned shop, restaurant or store knowing that the profit, product and labor can make positive impacts on my community. The spirit of Main Street is embodied in these local businesses, just like it is in Harrison REMC.

Electric cooperatives are as local and community-centered as they come. Founded as a way to bring electricity to communities that didn’t interest investor-owned utilities (IOUs), electric cooperatives have been a cornerstone of community and economic development in rural America and beyond for decades.

That feeling I get when I frequent local businesses in our community is the same feeling I get when I walk into work at the co-op every day. It is a feeling of pride. I am proud to be a part of an organization that serves the community in which we live, instead of a group of shareholders who may never have set foot in our service territory.

Living on co-op lines is more than just knowing there are people out there working to bring you safe, reliable and affordable electric service. Living on co-op lines is an investment in our community and its members.

You see, Harrison REMC is a not-for-profit business. When we have a positive financial year, electric rates remain stable and a portion of the excess funds is refunded to the members (that’s you!) in the form of capital credits. This means after all co-op expenses and financial requirements are satisfied, any additional money we earn goes back into our community, instead of going into a shareholder’s pocket, which is pretty great!

And because we are owned by you, our members, we have a vested interest in making sure our community is prosperous.

I hope that you view Harrison REMC not just as your electric utility provider, but as a local business that brings pride and prosperity to our community. If you are interested in learning more about how we keep the lights on and beyond, please stop by the co-op or give us a call. We love being a part of this community, and we hope you feel the same way, too!

DAVID LETT
CEO