Submitted by Orcas Power and Light Cooperative.

OPALCO nominations for board candidates are now open. There are two positions open: one position in District 1 (San Juan, Brown, Henry, Pearl and Spieden islands) and one in District 2 (Orcas, Armitage, Blakely, Obstruction, Big Double, Little Double and Fawn islands). Applications are due to the Elections & Governance Committee by Jan. 25.

Members of the Co-op from all backgrounds and representing all identities are encouraged to apply. The Co-op values all kinds of experience and skill sets: you do not need to be an engineer or have previous experience with utilities. Our organization includes business management, finance and accounting, legal, insurance, benefits, education and training, marketing, technology, public policy, construction, procurement, engineering, design, project management, permitting and operations.

Why run for an OPALCO Board Position? It’s an exciting moment in history for our Co-op and the industry with the push to get carbon out of our environment and renewable energy rapidly evolving. Directors set the policies, budgets and rates for the Co-op. And, as an added benefit, OPALCO Directors are paid a stipend for their time and board training. As a member-owner, you can take an active role in guiding the company you own!

There are two ways to be nominated for a board position: 1) by the member EGC Committee or 2) by petition. The EGC will review nominations received by Jan. 25 and recommend their slate of candidates for the open positions. Candidates may also seek a nomination by petition. A member in good standing collects no fewer than 20 signatures of bona fide OPALCO members who reside in their district.

The election will be open March 10 through April 26. All voting is by absentee ballot, via mail or online; voting materials will be sent by mail to every OPALCO member in early March. Election results will be announced at the annual meeting on April 29.

You must be an OPALCO member and meet the eligibility requirements to run. Apply online at www.opalco.com/why-run.