What makes a person run for a seat on a Board of Directors? Is it altruism, a chance for personal improvement, an initiative to make a difference, or maybe even an opportunity to apply experiences and life lessons to an important task or project? In examining the reasons that I am excited about this opportunity to be on the Pedernales Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors, I find that all of the items noted above are applicable, some maybe more so than others.
PEC is a reputable and respected cooperative with many notable achievements to its credit. Achievements made as a result of the efforts of a hard-working staff, an informed, involved and intelligent membership and finally, through sound business practices and decisions. Unfortunately, the reputation of PEC has been tarnished over the past year--due to the actions of its upper management and board--particularly in the media and among the membership. While the upper management has been replaced by new leadership that seems more committed to member concerns, it will still be an arduous task to restore the confidence and trust of the members. The new Board of Directors will require individuals that are both educated and dedicated to this task. They will need to be knowledgeable of the utility business environment and willing to “work” instead of “sit” on the Board.
I feel that PEC is at that critical point where the change has to be a “step-change.” A step change is one that requires immediate attention coupled with an expedient decision. These step-change activities include the Board membership, Board compensation, adopting open meeting laws, environmental awareness and conservation opportunities. The fact that so many decisions need to be discussed, reviewed, and completed emphasizes the need for board members who are up to the task with experience in resolving conflicts and effecting positive change.
My professional career and reputation has been built upon accepting the most complex of projects, especially those at a critical juncture of the process and needing strong oversight and support. I see a similar challenge in the PEC Board and believe that through hard work and diligence to the task I can effect a positive change.
