It is easy to get caught up in adversities that surround us every day. From geopolitical unrest and political debates to news stories highlighting family and community struggles, there is no shortage of issues competing for our attention. Staying informed and engaged is important, but it is equally important to pause and reflect on the many positive things happening around us each day. Taking a moment to appreciate what is going well can provide much-needed perspective.
That perspective is especially meaningful here at Grand Valley Power.
Like many organizations, GVP has faced its share of challenges this year. A historically mild winter significantly reduced energy use across our service territory. While lower energy bills are beneficial to members, reduced energy sales also make it more difficult for the cooperative to fully recover the revenue we need to maintain and invest in the reliable electric service our members depend on.
At the same time, the cost of providing electric service continues to rise. New laws, regulations, and tariffs have increased expenses across a wide range of goods and services. From the diesel fuel that powers our trucks and equipment to the materials required to maintain our electric system, costs are increasing while lead times for critical equipment remain unpredictable. These pressures have created real challenges as we consider impacts on our financial margins.
Still, challenges can reveal our strengths. Throughout its history, Grand Valley Power has faced changing operating conditions, economic uncertainty, severe weather, and industry transformation. Each time, our employees and board of directors have stepped forward with dedication, creativity, and a commitment to do what is right for our members. This year is no different. Across the cooperative, employees continue to look for ways to operate more efficiently, manage costs responsibly, and maintain the high level of reliability and service our members expect. At the same time, our board of directors continues to make thoughtful and sometimes difficult decisions with a long-term focus on protecting the interests of the membership. And for that, I am deeply grateful.
I am grateful for the employees who show up every day with a commitment to serve our members. Whether finding a way to quickly and safely restore power to the Gateway community this past August after flooding damaged Highway 141 and destroyed multiple power poles, helping members understand their power bills over the phone or in the office, or designing and planning our system for future growth, our employees demonstrate the dedication to our community that makes GVP successful.
I am equally grateful to our members. A cooperative’s greatest strength is the connection between the organization and the people it serves. Throughout the year we hear from members who express appreciation for the hometown service they receive from GVP employees. Recently we had the opportunity to receive feedback from members who attended our annual meeting. We sincerely thank every member who took the time to respond to the survey. We carefully reviewed each response, discussing the feedback and exploring ways we can continue to improve. You provided valuable insight into what we are doing well and where we can do better. More importantly, it helps us ensure that you feel informed and connected to your cooperative. As a member-owned cooperative, listening is one of our most important responsibilities. The feedback we receive helps guide our efforts and strengthens our ability to serve you.
As the seasons change, we will continue to face challenges; but I encourage all of us to take a moment to appreciate the many good things that surround us. There is much to be grateful for.
Here at Grand Valley Power, we are grateful for the communities we serve, the dedicated employees who work on your behalf, and most importantly, you, the members who own this cooperative. Your support, feedback, and trust are among our greatest assets, and we thank you for the privilege of serving you.
By Chrystal Dean, GVP Chief Executive Officer
