The national election theatrics are so entertaining this year that one might miss the LPEA ballots, which were sent on April 15. You need to cast your vote before, or at the annual meeting on May 7. Each year the voter turnout is consistently apathetic for this local election, but your vote could change that.

Local elections impact our community in very real and measurable ways. Each year four of the 12 LPEA board seats open for election. The LPEA board of directors serve to represent you, the membership of our rural electric cooperative. They set the course, the policies and the rates.

Incumbent candidates Jack Turner, District 4 (Northern La Plata County) and Marck Garcia, Distrit 1 (Archuleta County) are both running again to serve as your representatives. Both have the experience and leadership skills to continue bringing high value to the LPEA board.

Once in awhile a candidate of excpetional value steps up to serve. Lori Schell is running in District 2 (Southwest and Southeast La Plata Coounty), and is an exceptional candidate. Lori has built her career as an energy economist consulting with oil, gas and utilities. Loris is a skilled communicator who has honed her leadership skills as a mentor with Leadership La Plata. LPEA as an organization and the membership will benefit from Lori Schell's service on the LPEA board, let's elect her.

Local elections are critical, and we need to appreciate the high value and experince these candidates offer. Please join me in showing your appreciation by voting for these candidates in your respective districts.

Gregg Dubit

Hesperus