The month of May marks co-op board of director elections. As a valued member of our cooperative, you hold the power to influence the selection of directors from your respective district to serve on our ninemember board. Within our five-county service area, we have divided it into three membership districts based on the number of members. Each district is represented by three directors elected by the district’s members to serve a three-year term. Annually, one seat becomes available for election in each district.
In 2020, we introduced electronic voting as an alternative to mail-in ballots, which resulted in notable increases in voter participation as high as 24.87% in recent years. We hope to see a continual rise in this figure each year. I encourage you to cast your ballot — whether by mail or electronically — to vote in the 2024 director election.
With the implementation of new clean energy regulations in Michigan, it is important to recognize that we are entering a transformative time for electric utilities. These regulations require significant shifts toward sustainable energy practices which marks a pivotal time in our industry. As Cloverland continues to adapt and innovate to align with state regulations, we remain committed to serving our 34,000 members with reliable, affordable and sustainable energy solutions.
It has been my privilege to serve as chairperson for the past two years. On behalf of Cloverland’s board of directors, we extend a warm invitation to attend Cloverland’s Annual Meeting of the Members scheduled for Thursday, June 6, at 6 p.m. at the Lake Superior State University Arts Center in Sault Ste. Marie. Aside from election results, this meeting provides updates on the cooperative, and we will also be awarding 13 scholarships from our Cloverland Cares foundation. This event provides a unique opportunity to engage with your district directors, mingle with fellow members and participate in a drawing for some fantastic prizes. Hope to see you on June 6!
-Willie LaLonde