FROM THE TOP

As August rolls around, we’re gearing up for our Annual Meeting in September. After the success of last year's drive-thru format, we’re excited to bring it back. Record attendance last year demonstrated that this format is more convenient, allowing greater participation from you, our members. While we miss the entertainment, meals and fellowship of our traditional meetings, this new approach ensures that we conduct business and members can use their membership efficiently and conveniently. See page 4 for more details about this year's event.

One of the highlights this year will be a proposed bylaw change. Our bylaws, which you will vote on at the Drive-Thru Annual Meeting, are the foundation of how we operate. This year, OEC's board of trustees is proposing a change that, while minor, could have a big impact. As written, our bylaws restrict when and where we can hold our Annual Meeting. The proposed change would provide more flexibility, allowing us to avoid scheduling conflicts with the University of Oklahoma, back-to-school and other local events, and the hottest times of the year.

We haven’t updated our bylaws since 2003, so this is an excellent reminder of the importance of member control in our cooperative. This change may seem small, but it's a chance for all of us to exercise our power and responsibility. You’ll find the full text of the proposed change in next month's issue so you can come prepared to vote during the drive-thru meeting. We recommend a "yes" vote, as we believe this change will benefit our cooperative.

Member control is a cornerstone of our cooperative principles. Each of you has an equal voice and vote in how we’re governed. Our leadership team and board of trustees, all local residents, are dedicated to reflecting the needs and priorities of our community. Your input helps us make informed decisions on topics like high-speed broadband, new rate development and member programming.

We look forward to your participation as we prepare for this year’s Drive-Thru Annual Meeting. Your voice and vote are crucial in shaping the future of our cooperative. Thank you for being an active and engaged member of our community.