October Highline Notes Editorial
By: Marshal Albright, President/CEO
Please vote; it is your right and privilege
There’s an old political saying, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” This adage is the perfect answer to the question, “Why vote?” It’s a blunt description of what happens when you don’t engage in the political process.
If you don’t vote, you’re not only missing the opportunity to support a candidate that shares your views and concerns; you’re allowing others to chart a course that impacts your future. That’s why we’re encouraging all Cass County Electric Cooperative members to vote on Nov. 3, 2020. It is more important than ever to understand the issues before you vote. The legislative focus for the cooperative is to support energy policies that ensure affordable and reliable power supply.
While local elections may not be as exciting as the high-profile presidential election, they are just as critical. Local elections have a direct impact on your community and your quality of life.
Like the national level, local elections represent who we are as a community, and more importantly, where we want to go. Whether it’s an election for a mayor, sheriff, state representative, or a school board member, your vision for the community is tied to your vote. Voting keeps elected officials accountable.
Your board, your voice
Cass County Electric board members provide strategic guidance on the Cooperative’s direction and how it serves the community. Local board members embody the voice and identity of the community. Cass County Electric has a nine-member board and recently held an election for three directors.
Ultimately, the role of the Cooperative’s board is governance and to ensure the financial stability of the Cooperative. While our employees make day-to-day decisions, more significant decisions are made by the board, whose mission is to plan for the long-term vitality of the co-op and the members we serve. Cass County Electric board members provide their perspective on community priorities, thereby enabling us to make more informed decisions on long-term investments.
We live in challenging times with significant decisions ahead that will impact the Cooperative, and we need you, the members of the co-op, to voice your opinions and help keep the system in check.
We also depend on you and your neighbors to vote so that we can stay on course and ensure that we are in sync with the community that we serve. If you are interested in running for a director seat, please contact our office and ask for a 2021 director election packet. Our next director elections are scheduled for April 2021.
Vote
In November, a strong voter turnout shows investment in the community and ensures that a diverse number of views are represented. By voting in national, state, and local elections, you serve as a role model for your family, friends, and colleagues. The act of voting demonstrates your support for the community and helps officials chart a future course. Democracy is not a spectator sport. Research candidates, learn about issues that are on the ballot, and get out and vote!