Dan Hellbusch

The meeting involved discussions on several key topics, including a request from the Platte County Highway Department regarding the replacement of the 400th Avenue Bridge #8 and an executive session related to Loup Canal bridges. Updates were provided on the non-capacity license amendment with FERC, remaining 2025 year-end report filings, and the ongoing coordination with NEMA regarding storm-related repairs. Additionally, the Board reviewed safety audits, approved an updated 2026 Streetlight Rate schedule, increased the annual fee for pole attachments, reviewed an American Public Power Association utility operating ratios report, and formally recognized the retirement of a long-standing employee via resolution.

The board meeting included committee reports on District water issues, a board retreat update, and canal bridges. Financial and budget discussions focused on the 2025 audit review, the 15-year financial proforma, and the selection of a consultant for the Part 12D comprehensive assessment. The agenda also covered personnel items such as payroll changes, property sale discussions regarding the old service center, the 2025 NPPD EnergyWise annual report, and scholarship awards. Additionally, the Board reviewed departmental reports from accounting and finance, engineering, operations, and corporate services.

Key discussion topics during the board meeting focused on several operational and capital improvement areas. Significant time was dedicated to evaluating canal bridges, particularly the 400th Avenue Bridge, which requires replacement with modern concrete designs due to age and increased load requirements, necessitating exploration of funding options estimated between $1.2 and $1.3 million. The board addressed pole attachment rates, implementing a new rate of $16.48 per attachment per year based on an FCC calculation study, a substantial increase from the previous $8 flat rate, while noting this is slightly above the industry median compared to peer power companies. The 2024 Operating Ratio Study results indicated strong performance, showing the company is competitive in revenue per kilowatt hour and cost per goods sold, operating in the lowest quartile compared to similar-sized entities. Furthermore, the 2025 Safety Review highlighted that the year concluded very well with zero lost time injuries for the first time in over five years, although nine minor personal injuries represented an area of concern needing improvement toward a five-injury trend. Finally, the 2025 financial review showed revenue slightly exceeding 2024 results, indicating a positive trend moving into 2026, attributed to generation volume and customer growth.

The Board of Directors meeting addressed several key administrative and operational items. The Board excused the absence of one Director and approved the minutes from the December 2025 meeting. Key discussions included forming a Board Retreat Committee, updates on the non-capacity license amendment filed with FERC, progress on facility repairs related to the 2019 storm event, and feasibility studies regarding the dredging of Lake Babcock due to sedimentation. Hydroelectric generation for 2025 was reported as above average (155,146 MWh). Significant action was taken by the Rates Committee to increase the canal water use rate from $10.00 to $10.75 per acre foot for 2026, and to increase the water heater price for new installations from $5.50 to $7.00 per month. The Personnel, Safety, and Insurance Committee adopted a resolution regarding an employee retirement. The Legislative Update from the 2026 Nebraska Unicameral session was reviewed, focusing on bills related to the electric utility industry. The Board also approved a work order letter and discussed the potential sale of the old Service Center building.

The board meeting included discussions and updates on several critical items. Key topics included the status of the FK license non-capacity license amendment, noting that the environmental assessment was approved and the district awaits final approval from FK. The board also discussed the Lake Babcock dredging and sedimentation project, confirming the feasibility study results were favorable and that engineering designs are underway, supported by an additional state grant. Hydroelectric generation for 2025 was reviewed, showing generation exceeded the average by 11.9%. The performance of the Crestston Ridge wind farms (CR1 and CR2) was reviewed, achieving capacity factors of 50.1% and 48.5%, respectively, which helped reduce demand charges. Rate adjustments were considered for canal water use irrigation, resulting in a proposal to increase the rate from $10 to $10.75 per acre foot (a 7.5% increase) due to increased maintenance and power costs. Furthermore, the cost for water heater rentals was reviewed, leading to a proposed increase to $6.99 to cover doubled equipment costs and higher installation fees. Finally, payroll and retirements were addressed, including the passing of a resolution to honor Jim Hogi for his 44 years of service upon his retirement.