We all have a product or brand we loyally purchase time after time. With that in mind, consider how many times the company making that product has asked you to vote for its board of directors. For most people, the answer is few to none. Electric cooperatives are the exception; we do exactly that. 

When the Rochdale Principles, which defined co-ops, were first penned in 1844, our forefathers probably never imagined those values would be driving business decisions over 175 years later. But these seven principles have sustained countless co-op ventures through history, including Bartholomew County REMC’s. The Rochdale Principles are: 

• Voluntary, open membership 
• Democratic member control 
• Members’ economic participation 
• Autonomy and independence 
• Education, training and information 
• Cooperation among cooperatives 
• Concern for community 
• Democratic member control

The second principle, democratic member control, embodies the concept that all members of the cooperative help drive decision making. They not only participate, but all members also have an equal level of participation. No matter how large or small, all members have equal democratic control. Electric cooperatives may have a CEO, department managers and employees, but the control of the cooperative is undoubtedly in the hands of the board of directors that represent you. 

ANNUAL MEETING: Much like our nation’s election day, electric cooperatives hold an annual meeting for members once each year. The annual meeting gives us an opportunity to give a summary of the year’s activities and elect our directors and nominating committee members. It sets us apart from almost every other type of business. This year, the annual business meeting will be held virtually, Thursday, June 16, at 7 p.m. We also encourage you to attend our meet and greet at the fair on June 28 to visit with your board of directors and some of our co-op’s employees.

ELECTION PACKETS: In mid-May, voting ballots, the BCREMC 2021 Annual Report and a fair parking pass for June 28 were mailed to all members. Use the enclosed ballot to vote for your board of directors and nominating committee members. Mail in your ballot or vote online by noon on June 15. Thank you for participating in your cooperative voting process! When you are a member of a cooperative, you’re part of something special.