Emerald Peoples Utility District

The Board of Directors discussed several key items, including a proposed update to the Customer Service Policy to merge it with the Identity Theft Prevention Policy, and a review of Renewable Portfolio Standard compliance requirements, noting that current obligations are met through the Short Mountain facility. The Board also reviewed a survey on Board compensation, discussed the upcoming General Manager performance review process, and addressed the designation of a delegate for the Oregon Public Utility Districts Association. Additionally, the Board approved a membership with the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

This document summarizes stakeholder feedback and strategic considerations for EPUD's 2026 strategic planning session. It highlights EPUD's strengths in reliability and communication, while identifying affordability as the top customer concern. Key strategic issues addressed include rates and affordability, reliability enhancements, resilience and emergency preparedness, modernizing outage communication, organizational readiness and maturity, and positioning for growth. The document aims to inform decisions that ensure the organization's continued health, meet customer expectations, and adapt to future challenges.

The board discussed organizational structure, the role and legislative advocacy of the Oregon Public Utility Association, and recent state legislative session outcomes. Key topics included the importance of electricity affordability in policy-making, the fiscal challenges and budget deficits facing the state, and the ongoing coordination between consumer-owned utility associations and state legislators. The board emphasized the necessity of maintaining strong relationships with local elected officials to address rising rates and broader economic impacts.

The Board of Directors workshop focused on several key topics, including Public Meetings Law training, a customer communications update, and a review of the 2025 financial results. Additionally, the Board discussed responses from consultants regarding director compensation and initiated a review of the General Manager's contract.

The board discussed public concerns regarding electricity rate increases, explaining the methodology used for the base rate and energy charge calculations, and noted the availability of conservation programs for customers. The board also reviewed the check register, highlighting expenditures for LED yard and street light projects, energy services software, and meter test bench equipment. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding a presentation from the PPC and updates on the organization's regional energy market strategies.