Although I am a member of the La Plata Electric Association board, I am writing this letter as an individual. Christi Zeller wrote a letter (Herald, May 3) in which she makes many accusations and assumptions. Since I have limited space, I cannot respond to all of her accusations but will try and offer additional information on some of her points.
The majority of the board voted against requiring candidates to sign an affidavit that they were qualified to run because it is redundant and unnecessary. The bylaws state what the qualifications are, and all board members must meet the qualifications as determined by an independent committee.
Zeller questioned the process for creating the Community Solar Garden program and tries to show that Britt Bassett (an LPEA board member up for re-election) had a conflict of interest. The committee to set up the solar garden policy was open to any board members, and I supported Bassett on the committee because of his knowledge of solar energy. Two other board members also joined the committee who do not work for solar companies, and another long-time board member monitored the process. The meetings were open to the public. Based on our attorney’s guidance, Bassett recused himself and did not vote on anything related to the Community Solar Garden he is subscribed to. Additionally, Bassett’s company only works on solar systems in California. Having Bassett and others on the board with solar experience has been a huge asset to our organization, and there is no conflict of interest.
Zeller falsely claims that since I’ve been elected, director expenditures have gone way up. The actual total board expense for the last four years have been – 2011: $251,750; 2012: $242,480; 2013: $250,568; and 2014: $218,953.
In short, Zeller has a right to voice her opinion, but none of her accusations or assumptions are correct. The current board has made great strides in providing more options for LPEA members while working to create a more open cooperative, and I am proud of what we have accomplished.
Michael Rendon
Durango
