Leo Dwyer: NH electric co-op needs your input to ensure that rates are kept low

To The Daily Sun,

I’ve served as a director of the New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC) for seven years and am currently running for a final three-year term. Ten years in a position is just about right — enough time to learn about the business and provide effective oversight but not so long that you begin to feel entitled to the position for life.

During my time at the co-op, I led the effort which secured $65 million in grant funding to get our fiber broadband project going. But that’s not what is on my mind today.

What has my attention is a member-sponsored bylaw amendment on this year’s ballot that guarantees directors access to NHEC information necessary to exercise their fiduciary responsibility. You may not realize that while all other New Hampshire utilities' rates are regulated by the state Public Utilities Commission, co-op rates are set by the board of 11 directors that you elect. Directors need information to ensure your rates are kept as low as possible.

Members should ask themselves two questions when contemplating the amendment: What would motivate folks to go to all the trouble to get 450 member signatures to get the question on the ballot? Why would 6 of 11 sitting directors vote to oppose the amendment?

I support the amendment, as do Jeff Morrill and Jerry Stringham, who are also on the ballot with me this year. Together Jeff and I have 13 years experience on the NHEC board. Jerry, who represents Lincoln and Woodstock in the state legislature, brings impressive skills and a fresh perspective.

There appears to be a coordinated effort by four newcomers to unseat incumbent directors who support the amendment. The newbies are silent on this important issue.

I urge you to cast your vote for Dwyer, Morrill, Stringham, and "Yes" on the bylaw amendment.

Leo Dwyer

Center Sandwich