POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON NOVEMBER 29, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, November 29, 2021, at 8 a.m.  in the boardroom of the Centuria office.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel.  Tom Swenson attended via WebEx.  Guests included Todd Schulte, member services manager, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Ed Johansen, operations manager, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting and Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of October 25, 2021 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the October board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for October 2021.  They were reviewed and discussed.
• The manager of finance and accounting presented information on the end-of-year margin forecast.
• The board approved a budget amendment to purchase AED’s for line trucks, a plow mount and a water softener for the Siren office.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $179.19.
• Directors reviewed the director election timeline.  Districts 4, 5 and 6 are up for election in 2022.  Applications must be received by March 4, 2022 to be placed on the ballot.  The cooperative will have a hybrid election this year giving members the ability to vote electronically or vote by paper ballot.
• The board approved the following dates for regular board meetings in 2022:  January 24, February 28, March 28, April 25, May 23, June 27, July 25, August 22, September 26, October 24, November 28 and December 19. 
• Directors received strategy action plans updates from senior staff and an overview of the 2022 budget that will be considered at the December board meeting.
• Wilfred Owens was appointed as voting delegate to the National Rural Electric Cooperative annual meeting.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc. quarterly board meeting.
• The board received a report from those that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting is combined with the budget meeting and is scheduled for December 20, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m.   

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON OCTOBER 25, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, October 25, 2021, at 8 a.m. at the Centuria office.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson (via WebEx), Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.   Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Ed Johansen, operations manager and Jarod Boerst, power distribution engineer.  Nathan Kalepp, principal, Bauman & Associates, joined the board via conference call.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of September 27, 2021 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the September board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for September 2021.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $698.26.
• Per bylaw requirements, the board reviewed the district counts and discussed Policy BD-19 – Redistricting Guidelines. The largest district does not exceed the smallest district by more than 8% so redistricting is not required.
• Directors selected Friday, June 10, 2022 as the date for 84th annual meeting and Friday, August 12, 2022 for member appreciation day.
• Acting as the audit committee, the board met with the auditor, via teleconference, to discuss the 2021 audit.
• Directors received an update on a 2 MW solar array project.
• The board approved the 2022 Construction Work Plan.  Energy sales have remained steady amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  Thirteen substations set new summer peaks in July 2020 and July 2021. There is low growth in commercial and industrial sections and moderate residential growth.  No new subdivisions have been constructed, but there have been many new connects.  Approximately 36.4 miles of identified line construction is considered in the 2022 work plan and was primarily based on condition of poles/age of overhead conductor, condition of underground line, difficult right-of-way, back-up between substations and storm hardening.  The work plan includes improvements and upgrades to Polk-Burnett’s electric system which would include pole replacements, upgrades of overhead and underground cables, reclosers, voltage regulators, metering devices and other planned or unplanned construction. There are now more total miles of underground line than there are overhead miles of line.  Overhead to underground conversions overlap with pole rejects and small conductor replacements and will assist in storm hardening.
• Ed Gullickson was appointed as the voting delegate at the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association annual meeting.
• Directors received a report from the general manager/CEO.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• Directors held an executive session to discuss the general manager/CEO performance evaluation.
• The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 29, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 12:30 p.m.     

 SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 27, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, September 27, 2021, at 8 a.m. in the boardroom at the Centuria headquarters.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager, and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.  Nick Nelson, Power Systems Engineering, presented the cost of service study.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of August 23, 2021 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the August board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $851.90.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for August 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board approved passing through the Dairyland Power Cooperative fourth quarter rate credit to be applied to member bills December through February.
• The board was presented results from the cost of service study performed by Power System Engineering.
• The board approved a new AMI/GIS specialist position to be hired in 2021.
• The board approved a budget amendment to purchase UPS batteries and replacement iPads.
• The board directed management to sign a letter of intent for a solar array project.
• The board reviewed a new policy that provides guidance when running for a director of an associated organization.
• The board appointed a WECA annual meeting voting delegate.
• The board discussed newsletter options.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conference and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, October 25, 2021 at the Centuria office.

The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m.

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON AUGUST 23, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, August 23, 2021, at 8 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager, Rick Kosloski, manager of rights of way/warehouse/safety, Ed Johansen, operations manager and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of July 26, 2021 were received. The board authorized the summary of the July board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for July 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $119.
• The member services manager presented a report on the Identity Theft Prevention Program (Red Flags).  The program is in place to assist cooperative personnel to identify, detect and prevent the theft of members’ personal information.
• Directors selected voting delegates for the NRECA Region 5 meeting.
• The manager of rights-of-way/warehouse/safety presented information on the cooperative right-of-way and herbicide program. 
• The manager of rights-of-way/warehouse/safety presented information on the cooperative safety program.
• The manager of finance and accounting presented information on solar array options.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc., quarterly board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, September 27, 2021.

The meeting adjourned at 11:49 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JULY 26, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, July 26, 2021, at 8 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw (via WebEx), Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Tim Laux, system counsel, Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO and Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting and Joan O’Fallon, director of communications.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of June 28, 2021were received. The board authorized the summary of the June board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for June 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $531.45. 
• The board adopted a bylaw amendment to Article IV Meeting of Members, Section 4. Notice of Members’ Meetings, effective July 26, 2021.  The amendment will be presented to the members for approval at the 2022 annual meeting.
• The board approved the retirement of 3.33% of unretired capital credits and the generation and transmission capital credits received from Dairyland Power Cooperative. 
• Joe Metro was appointed voting delegate for NRECA Region 5 meeting.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a legal report from the system counsel.
• Directors visited with the president and CEO of Dairyland Power Cooperative to discuss Dairyland’s strategy, reliability, sustainability, employee development and culture.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for August 23, 2021.

The meeting adjourned at 11:47 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

 SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JUNE 28, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, June 28, 2021, at 8 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Tom Swenson was absent.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Ed Johanson, operations manager and Bryce Williamson, apprentice lineman.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• An organizational meeting took place to elect board officers for the 2021-2022 term.  Ed Gullickson was elected president, Mike Morris was elected vice president and Chuck Brookshaw was elected secretary/treasurer.
• The minutes from the regular meeting of May 24, 2021 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the May board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for May 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $212.41.
• The board conducted the annual review and signed a Director Pledge reaffirming their responsibility and commitment to uphold the highest standards for legal and ethical conduct.
• The board re-adopted bylaw amendments to Article V, Directors, Section 2(b) Qualifications and Article VI, Section 2, Annual Meeting, effective June 28, 2021.  They will be presented to the membership for approval at the 2022 annual meeting. 
• The board approved the 2022 Scholarship Program to award $1,250 scholarship to 54 high school seniors and one Youth Tour trip. 
• The board approved the 2022 major equipment purchase schedule to secure production slots in 2021 to receive the equipment in 2022.
• In December 2020, the board approved a revolving loan fund loan to the Town of Lorain, however building quotes are coming in higher than initially projected due to the increase of building materials, a new application was received.  The board approved a new Revolving Loan Fund application for the Town of Lorain to construct a new fire hall.
• Joe Metro was appointed voting delegate for the WECA (Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association) district meeting.
• Directors received a report from the general manager. 
• Directors received a report of the system counsel.
• Directors received a report from Dairyland Power Cooperative.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for July 26, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 10:35 a.m.
• The board conducted annual meetings of Polk-Burnett Charities, Inc. and Polk-Burnett Diversified Services, Inc.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON MAY 24, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, May 24, 2021, at 8 a.m. at the headquarters in Centuria, WI.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw (via WebEx), Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/ HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Ed Johansen, operations manager, Jarod Boerst, power delivery engineer and Todd Miller, Polk-Burnett Propane Services general manager.  Kristin Frank, operations coordinator, was introduced to the board.  Audit firms presented via WebEx.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of April 26, 2021 were received. The board authorized the summary of the April board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for April 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $782.20.
• The board acknowledge receipt of the Federated Safety & Loss Assessment conducted on April 6, 2021.
• The board retained Bauman & Associates to conduct the annual audit for a three-year term.
• The power delivery engineer gave a summary of the 2020 Construction Work Plan construction costs.
• The board acknowledged the 2020 Form 990.  The 990 is the tax return for organizations exempt from income tax.
• Directors received a report of the Polk-Burnett Propane Services general manager.
• Directors received a report on subsidiary growth trends.
• The board took action to set Friday, August 13 as Member Appreciation Day.
• Directors received a report from the general manager. 
• Directors received a report of the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, June 28, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at noon.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON APRIL 26, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, April 26, 2021, at 8 a.m. in the boardroom at the Centuria office. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson (via WebEx), Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel. Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Susan Huerstel, accountant, Todd Schulte, member service manager and Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager. 

President Gullickson announced that due to declining COVID-19 infection rates, the board will return to all directors meeting in person beginning at the May board meeting.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of March 22, 2021 were received. The board authorized the summary of the March board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• There were no write-offs.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for March 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The accountant presented information on 2020 financial ratios showing steady, positive trends.
• Directors received information on the cooperative’s debt portfolio from the manager of finance and accounting.
• The board took action to send requests for proposals to audit firms for a three-year quote.  The board will review the quotes at the May board meeting.
• The board approved amendments to Policy M-10:  Collections.  Member and board policies can be viewed under My Coop at www.polkburnett.com.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• The board received a report from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• Directors held discussions in executive session.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for May 24, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 1 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON MARCH 22, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, March 22, 2021, at 8 a.m. at the Centuria office and via WebEx/teleconference. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel. Tim Laux, Mike Morris and Tom Swenson attended the meeting via WebEx.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Todd Schulte, member service manager, Rebekah Lindner, customer services manager (via WebEx), Ed Johansen, operations manager and Jarod Boerst (via WebEx), power delivery engineer.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of February 22, 2021 were received. The board authorized the summary of the February board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $938.19.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for February 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• Ed Gullickson was nominated as the DPC director and Joe Metro as the alternate.
• All directors were appointed as delegates to the DPC annual meeting on June 9, 2021.
• Action was taken to schedule Polk-Burnett’s 83rd annual meeting as a virtual event.  A member appreciation day will be held later in the year as long as it is safe to gather in large groups.
• The operations manager and power delivery engineer presented information from the 2020 power reliability report.
• The member service manager and customer services manager presented information on billing trends.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received a legal report.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for April 26, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:49 a.m.

 POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON FEBRUARY 22, 2021

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, February 22, 2021, at 8 a.m. via WebEx. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel. Jerry Okonek was absent.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, and Nate Kalepp, Bauman Associates.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of January 25, 2021 were received. The board authorized the summary of the January board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $1,844.44.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for January 2021. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• Auditor, Nate Kalepp, Bauman Associates, presented the 2020 consolidated financial statements for Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative and Subsidiaries to the board of directors.  In the opinion of the auditor, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 and the results of operations and cash flows for the years then ended are in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United State of America.  A copy of the consolidated audit report for 2020 is placed under About Us at www.polkburnett.com.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from system counsel.
• Directors received a report from the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc. quarterly board meeting.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative District Meeting.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The directors met in executive session to discuss a potential growth opportunity, the general manager/CEO contract and Schmidt litigation.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for March 22, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 12:33 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JANUARY 25, 2021

A regular meeting of the Board of Directors was called to order on Monday, January 25, 2021, at 8 a.m. via WebEx.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of December 21, 2020 and special meeting of January 18, 2021 were received.  The board authorized the summary of the December board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of the preliminary financials for December 2020.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $603.08.
• The board reviewed and approved revisions to policy M-28: Smart/AMI Meter Relocation.  Board and member polices can be found on www.polkburnett.com under About Us/Policies.
• A presentation on the 2020 EnergySense program was presented to the board.   The board discussed the changes for the 2021 EnergySense program which include an additional level 2 EV smart charger incentive for $800 and home performance testing incentive increasing from $300 to $350.  Continued efforts in 2021 include a PV seminar in April, an EV seminar in May, and a geothermal seminar in June.  All seminars will be held virtually.
• The board approved a bylaw amendment that will allow the cooperative to hold virtual member meetings.  The amendment will be presented to the membership at the June 11, 2021 annual meeting.
• The board discussed holding the annual meeting virtually with a separate day for member appreciation day.  Additional discussion will continue into March.
• The board approved the 2021 scholarship award recipients.  Polk-Burnett received a total of 73 applications.  One high school senior participated in the Youth Tour essay contest and will attend the 2020 NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. when it resumes after COVID.   Scholarship recipients for 2021 were selected in a random, electronic selection process and will receive a $1,250 scholarship.  Scholarships are funded with unclaimed Capital Credit dollars that otherwise would be forfeited to the state.  Scholarships do not affect electric rates. 
• The board adopted Policy BD-13:  Workplace Conduct.  The policy affirms the boards commitment to promoting a safe and respectful workplace by making the same principles prohibiting unlawful workplace discrimination, harassment and retaliation expected of the workforce applicable to the board, at the highest level of responsible cooperative governance.  Board and member polices can be found at www.polkburnett.com under About Us/Policies.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting. 
• The board received a report from those that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for February 22, 2021 via WebEx.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON DECEMBER 21, 2020

A regular meeting of the Board of Directors was called to order on Monday, December 16, 2020, at 8a.m.  It was conducted via WebEx.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present along with Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel. Guests included, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Todd Schulte, member services manager and Ed Johansen, operations manager.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of November 30, 2020 were received.  The board authorized the summary of the November board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for November 2020.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $1,864.87.
• The board approved a loan to the Town of Lorain to construct a new fire hall from the cooperative Revolving Loan Fund established with a USDA grant.
• The review and amendments were approved for policy E-17:  Drug & Alcohol Policy and E-21:  Post-Accident Drug Testing for CDL Drivers.
• The board approved the Legal Engagement Agreement commencing on January 1, 2021 and ending July 1, 2022. 
• The board appointed Cindy Thorman to the WECA Education Committee, Joe Metro to the WECA Legislative Committee and Jason Evenson to the WECA JT&S committee.
• Directors approved the 2021 budget.
• The board received an update on cyber security due to the recent industry cyberattack.
• Directors were presented the 2020 American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) survey results.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for January 25, 2021.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON NOVEMBER 30, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, November 30, 2020, at 8 a.m.  The meeting was held via WebEx.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel.  Guests included Todd Schulte, member services manager, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Ed Johansen, operations manager, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting and Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of October 19, 2020 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the October board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for October 2020.  They were reviewed and discussed.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $248 and miscellaneous accounts receivable $2,479.27.
• Directors reviewed the director election timeline.  Districts 7, 8 and 9 are up for election in 2021.  Applications must be received by March 5, 2021 to be placed on the ballot.  The cooperative will have a hybrid election this year giving members the ability to vote electronically or vote by paper ballot.
• The board approved the following dates for regular board meetings in 2021:  January 25, February 22, March 22, April 26, May 24, June 28, July 26, August 23, September 27, October 25, November 29 and December 20. 
• Directors received an overview of the 2021 budget that will be considered at the December board meeting.
• The board approved a resolution authorizing the execution for recording a deed in satisfaction of an unrecorded land contract.
• The board reviewed a revolving loan fund application from the Town of Lorain Fire Department. The board will continue consideration at the December board meeting.
• As part of a group of 24 electric cooperatives, the board approved an investment to ZEF Energy, a maker of electric vehicle (EV) chargers.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc. quarterly board meeting.
• The board received a report from those that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting is combined with the budget meeting and is scheduled for December 21, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:37 a.m.   

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON OCTOBER 19, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, October 19, 2020, at 8 a.m. at the Centuria office.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.   Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Ed Johansen, operations manager and Jarod Boerst, power distribution engineer.  Nathan Kalepp, Bauman & Associates, joined the board via conference call.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of September 28, 2020 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the September board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for September 2020.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $2,885.48.
• The board approved director election campaign guidelines.
• The board approved a bylaw amendment to Article V, Directors, Section 2(b) Qualifications.  The bylaw amendment will be brought before the members’ at the 2021 annual meeting.
• Per bylaw requirements, the board reviewed the district counts and discussed Policy BD-19 – Redistricting Guidelines. The largest district does not exceed the smallest district by more than 8% so redistricting is not required.
• Directors selected Friday, June 11, 2021 as the date for 83rd annual meeting.
• Acting as the audit committee, the board met with the auditor, via teleconference, to discuss the 2020 audit.
• The board approved the 2021 Construction Work Plan.  Energy sales stay steady amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  There was record usage for April-August and eleven substations set new summer peaks. Polk-Burnett has the lowest system losses on record and has seen a steady downward trend since 2010.  There is low growth in commercial and industrial sections and moderate residential growth.  No new subdivisions have been constructed, but houses are being built in existing subdivisions.  Approximately 35.6 miles of identified line construction is considered in the 2021 work plan and was primarily based on condition of poles/age of overhead conductor, condition of underground line, difficult right-of-way, back-up between substations and storm hardening.  The work plan includes improvements and upgrades to Polk-Burnett’s electric system which would include pole replacements, upgrades of overhead and underground cables, reclosers, voltage regulators, metering devices and other planned or unplanned construction. There are now more total miles of underground line than there are overhead miles of line.  Overhead to underground conversions overlap with pole rejects and small conductor replacements and will assist in storm hardening.
• Joe Metro was appointed as the voting delegate at the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association annual meeting.
• The board approved a resolution approving Dairyland Power Cooperative’s (DPC) adoption of a PURPA Joint Implementation Plan.  The plan allows DPC to purchase excess renewable energy from members on Polk-Burnett’s distribution system if Polk-Burnett does not want to purchase it.
• Directors received a report from the general manager/CEO.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• Directors held an executive session to discuss the general manager/CEO performance evaluation.
• The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 30, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 12:16 p.m.     

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 28, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, September 28, 2020, at 8:15 a.m. via WebEx/teleconference.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of August 24, 2020 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the August board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $1,782.57.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for August 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board continued governance discussions and reviewed proposed director election campaign guidelines and additions to director qualifications.  Discussion will continue at the October board meeting.
• The board appointed a CFC district meeting voting delegate. 
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• There were no reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, October 19, 2020 at the Centuria office.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:06 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON AUGUST 24, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, August 24, 2020, at 8 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson (via WebEx), Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Sarah Bullock (CFC) and Caryn Alexander (NRECA).

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of July 27, 2020 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the July board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for July 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $19.57.
• Sarah Bullock, Regional Vice Present with National Rural Utilities Cooperative Financial Corporation (CFC), presented on equity management.
• Amendments to Policy BD-10:  Director’s Expense & Per Diem that describe the process of setting board per diems were approved.
• Directors approved a human resource procedure that describes the guidelines for General Manager/CEO performance evaluation and compensation.
• The member services manager presented a report on the Identity Theft Prevention Program (Red Flags).  The program is in place to assist cooperative personnel to identify, detect and prevent the theft of members’ personal information. 
• Caryn Alexander, Field Representative with National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), presented information on the cooperatives pension plan.
• The board ratified the labor agreement with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 953.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc., quarterly board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 12:22 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JULY 27, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, July 27, 2020, at 8:10 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Tim Laux, system counsel, Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO and Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator.  Joe Metro and Tom Swenson attended via WebEx.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting and Joan O’Fallon, director of communications.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of June 22, 2020 were received. The board authorized the summary of the June board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for June 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• A budget amendment was approved to replace the HVAC system in the annex.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $1,819.37.
• The board conducted the annual review and signed a Director Pledge reaffirming their responsibility and commitment to uphold the highest standards for legal and ethical conduct. 
• The board approved the retirement of 2.5% of unretired capital credits and the generation and transmission capital credits received from Dairyland Power Cooperative. 
• The general manager/CEO was appointed voting delegate for Cooperative Finance Corporation.
• Discussion continued from last month on the cooperative’s reputation management plan pertaining to board governance and transparency.
• Policy BD-34:  Executive Session was adopted.  All board and member policies can be found at polkburnett.com under My Co-op.
• A resolution to approve the 2020 Dairyland Power Cooperative load forecast was passed.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a legal report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for August 27, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:33 a.m.

 POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

 SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JUNE 22, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, June 22, 2020, at 8:05 a.m. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson (via WebEx/Teleconference), Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of May 18, 2020 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the May board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for May 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $500.79.
• The board acknowledged the 2019 Form 990.  The 990 is the tax return for organizations exempt from income tax.
• The board approved the 2021 Scholarship Program to award $1,250 scholarship to 54 high school seniors and two Youth Tour trips. 
• Directors discussed plans for the July 8, online annual meeting.  Meeting registration opened on June 15 The official annual meeting notice appears in the June Powerlines and press releases were distributed via all co-op channels. It will be a condensed version of the in person annual meeting with Ed Gullickson, Steve Stroshane and Tim Laux as presenters.  There will be a question and answer segment where members can use the chat feature to submit a question that can be answered live during the meeting.  We need 50 members to log-in on July 8 for a quorum.
• Discussion continued from last month on the cooperative’s reputation management plan pertaining to board governance and transparency.
• Directors received a report on the 3rd generation metering system being evaluated by management.
• The board held discussions in executive session.
• Directors received a report from the general manager. 
• Directors received a report of the system counsel.
• Directors received a report from Dairyland Power Cooperative.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The board recessed to conduct annual meetings of Polk-Burnett Charities, Inc. and Polk-Burnett Diversified Services, Inc.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for July 27, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON MAY 18, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, May 18, 2020, at 8:15 a.m. via WebEx/teleconference due to COVID-19 precautions.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/ HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Ed Johansen, operations manager, Rick Kosloski, manager, rights-of-way/warehouse/safety, Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager and Todd Schulte, member services manager.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of April 24, 2020 were received. The board authorized the summary of the April board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for April 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board discussed UCC-1 filings on the top 100 electric accounts.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $522.38.
• The board approved a resolution for the restatement of the flexible spending plan document due to changes from the CARES Act.
• The board took action to declare unclaimed capital credit funds be forfeited according to Wisconsin Statutes Section 158.03(10) and the bylaws.  Notice will be mailed to members and posted on the website.
• The operations manager presented information from the 2020 power reliability report and the manager, rights-of-way/warehouse/safety followed with an update on the right-of-way aerial/mowing maintenance and herbicide programs.
• Directors received an Information Technology (IT) security update from the IT manager.
• The communications director joined the board to continue discussions on the cooperative’s reputation management action plan.
• A brief update was provided on the 2020 strategic plan and actions plans that have been impacted by COVID-19.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report of the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Directors received a report on the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc. quarterly board meeting.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for Monday, June 22, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at noon.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON APRIL 27, 2020

With the recent declarations of emergencies by federal and state authorities regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) the April 27, 2020 board meeting was conducted via WebEx/teleconfernece. Pursuant to bylaw Article VI, official business of the cooperative was transacted.

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, April 27, 2020, at 8:15 a.m. via WebEx/teleconference. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux, system counsel. Guests included Chris and Michelle Nelson, members, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Susan Huerstel, accountant, Joan O’Fallon, communications director and Todd Schulte, member service manager. 

The board met with Chris and Michelle Nelson who requested an appearance in front of the board to discuss property damage to their rental property back in February 2019 when their tenant moved out and the prepay account ran out of money.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of March 23, 2020 were received. The board authorized the summary of the March board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $1,945.86.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for March 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The accountant presented information on 2019 financial ratios showing steady, positive trends.
• The board discussed the securing capital credits in bankruptcy filings and the paycheck protection program.
• Directors received information on the cooperative’s debt portfolio and investments from the manager of finance and accounting.
• The general manager presented Polk-Burnett’s energy sales trends throughout the years for residential, seasonal, small commercial and large commercial members.
• A resolution for the Dairyland Power Cooperative Unanimous Consent of Members in Lieu of a Meeting was approved.
• The board approved a resolution that postponed the 82nd annual meeting on June 5, 2020 and directed management to plan a virtual annual member meeting.
• The board selected a date for the 82nd annual meeting of Wednesday, July 8, 2020.
• The board approved an addendum to Policy E-13:  Fringe Benefits to comply with the requirements of the Federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
• The board approved amendments to Policy M-6:  Prepay Program.  Member and board policies can be viewed under My Coop at www.polkburnett.com.  
• The board acknowledged receipt of the Federated Safety & Loss Assessment conducted March 17, 2020.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting.
• Director expenses were approved.
• Directors held discussions in executive session.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for May 18, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 1:10 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON MARCH 23, 2020

With the recent declarations of emergencies by federal and state authorities regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19) the March 23, 2020 board meeting was conducted via WebEx/teleconference. Pursuant to bylaw Article VI, official business of the cooperative was transacted.

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, March 23, 2020, at 8 a.m. via WebEx/teleconference. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel. Guests included Joan O’Fallon, communications director and Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of February 24, 2020 were received. The board authorized the summary of the February board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $2,606.06.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for February 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• Action was taken to reschedule Polk-Burnett’s 82nd annual meeting.
• Mike Morris and Joe Metro were appointed as delegates to the DPC annual meeting on June 3, 2020.
• Ed Gullickson was nominated as the DPC director and Joe Metro as the alternate.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for April 20, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 9:06 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

 SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON FEBRUARY 24, 2020

A regular meeting of the board of directors was called to order on Monday, February 24, 2020, at 8 a.m. at the Centuria office. Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris (via phone), Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present, along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel. Tom Swenson was absent.  Guests included Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Susan Huerstel, accountant, Todd Schulte, member services manager, Joan O’Fallon, communication director, Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager, Ed Johansen, operations manager, Jared Boerst, engineer, Chris Witthoft, network administrator and Joe Harrison, Bauman Associates.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The board watched a video titled Fiduciary Duties of a Director.
• The minutes from the regular meeting of January 27, 2020 were approved. The board authorized the summary of the January board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $812.17
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for January 2020. They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The communications director gave a presentation on Polk-Burnett’s Reputation Management Action Plan.
• Directors discussed plans for the combined 82nd annual meeting/member appreciation day event being held on Friday, June 5 at the Centuria headquarters.  An open house is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. and the annual meeting is from 3 to 4 p.m.
• Auditor, Joe Harrison, Bauman Associates, presented the 2019 consolidated financial statements for Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative and Subsidiaries to the board of directors.  In the opinion of the auditor, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 and the results of operations and cash flows for the years then ended are in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United State of America.  A copy of the consolidated audit report for 2019 is placed under About Us at www.polkburnett.com.
• The general manager gave a presentation on third-generation metering system being analyzed by the cooperative.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from system counsel.
• Directors received a report from the Polk-Burnett Propane Services, Inc. quarterly board meeting.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative.
• Directors received reports from directors that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for March 23, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 1:37 p.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON JANUARY 27, 2020

A regular meeting of the Board of Directors was called to order on Monday, January 27, 2020, at 8 a.m. at the Centuria office.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Jerry Okonek, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor were present along with Steve Stroshane, general manager, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Guests included, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Todd Schulte, member services manager and Joan O’Fallon, communications director.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of December 16, 2019 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the December board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of the preliminary financials for December 2019.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $845.20.
• The board reviewed and approved revisions to policy E-16:  Anti-Harassment Policy and Complaint Procedure.
• The board approved the 2020 scholarship award recipients.  Polk-Burnett received a total of 88 applications.  Two high school seniors participated in the Youth Tour essay contest and will attend the 2020 NRECA Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.   Scholarship recipients for 2020 were selected in a random, electronic selection process and will receive a $1,250 scholarship.  Scholarships are funded with unclaimed Capital Credit dollars that otherwise would be forfeited to the state.  Scholarships do not affect electric rates.  Following are the high school seniors selected from the random electronic selection:

• A presentation on the 2019 member satisfaction survey was presented to the board.  Polk-Burnett received a score of 83 on a scale of 100.  The survey was conducted by email November 5-11 and sent to 9,963 co-op members with email addresses on file.  We received 2,518 surveys back, a 25% response rate.
• A presentation on the 2019 EnergySense program was presented to the board.   The board discussed the changes for the 2020 EnergySense program which include an increase to the EV charging station incentive from $350 to $400, air source heat pump incentive increased from $200 to $250 per ton, geothermal heat pump incentive increased from $400 to $500 per ton and LED incentive for residential is $0.50.  The commercial LED incentive continues to be calculated at $0.50 per 800 lumens.  Continued efforts in 2020 include, an EV seminar in March, a geothermal seminar in April and a solar PV seminar in May.
• The board appointed a board member to the union negotiation team.
• The board appointed a voting delegate for the WECA education & lobby days.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Directors received a report on the Dairyland Power Cooperative board meeting. 
• The board received a report from those that attended various conferences and education seminars.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for February 24, 2020 at the Centuria office.
• The meeting adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

POLK-BURNETT ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

SUMMARY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING ON DECEMBER 16, 2019

A regular meeting of the Board of Directors was called to order on Monday, December 16, 2019, at 9 a.m.  Directors Chuck Brookshaw, Ed Gullickson, Joe Metro, Mike Morris, Wilfred Owens, Tom Swenson, Cindy Thorman and Jeff Traynor, were present along with Steve Stroshane, general manager/CEO, Stacy Bergmann, executive assistant/HR administrator and Tim Laux system counsel.  Jerry Okonek was absent. Guests included, Heather Gerber, manager of finance and accounting, Matt Kurtzhals, IT manager, Joan O’Fallon, communications director, Todd Schulte, member services manager and Rick Kosloski, manager, rights-of-way/warehouse/safety.

DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS

• The minutes from the regular meeting of November 18, 2019 were approved.  The board authorized the summary of the November board meeting minutes to be placed on the website.
• The board acknowledged receipt of financials for November 2019.  They were reviewed and discussed by the board.
• The board wrote-off bad debt electric accounts in the amount of $329.11.
• The review and amendments were approved for policy E-30:  Exempt Employees, E-32:  Destruction of Proprietary Information, E-33:  Proprietary Information and E-34:  Information Security Policy.
• The board approved the Legal Engagement Agreement commencing on January 1, 2020. 
• The board appointed Cindy Thorman to the WECA Education Committee, Joe Metro to the WECA Legislative Committee and Jason Evenson to the WECA JT&S committee.
• Directors received an update on the third-generation metering system being researched.
• Directors approved the 2020 budget.
• Directors received a report from the general manager.
• Directors received a report from the system counsel.
• Director expenses were approved.
• The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for January 27, 2020.
• The meeting adjourned at 11:45 a.m.