You are more than just a customer. You are a member-owner of Dakota Electric. Because we are not-for-profit, we are focused on your street — not Wall Street. Our employees and board members are devoted to this cooperative, our communities and to you. To me, this is the essential DNA of Dakota Electric, and it sets us apart from other electric utilities. It’s the cooperative difference.

October is National Co-op Month, and this year we are highlighting the many ways we “Power On.” Keeping this theme in mind, I recognize the essential role we play in serving our Minnesota communities.

Who would have thought in March, that the COVID-19 virus would amount to a test of our community, nation and world? The changing circumstances due to the pandemic have created both challenges and opportunities. Over the past several months, we’ve all been challenged to operate differently. Dakota Electric has stepped up to help our members and strengthen the safety net for our more vulnerable neighbors (page 6). As a critical service, and to ensure the reliability of your power supply, we continue to work in modified operations to safeguard the health and safety of the public and our employees.

For our members impacted by COVID-19 who need help with their electric bills, we’ve waived late fees and worked with those hardest hit to make special payment arrangements. We also directed members in need to local energy assistance programs (page 7). We kindly ask any member facing financial hardship to please contact member services. Our employees will work with you. Call 651-463- 6212 or email [email protected].

Additionally, we’ve seen others rise to meet similar challenges during this time, because that’s what communities do. Greater Twin Cities United Way and the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency have resources available for those who are behind on their rent, mortgage or utility payments. For more information, call 2-1-1, visit http://211unitedway.org, or text “MNRENT” or “MNHOME” to 898- 211 to learn more.

While the challenges caused by COVID-19 have been daunting, I’m heartened to see how everyone is pulling together. This co-op month I am proud of our cooperative and appreciative of the hardworking and dedicated employees who got us here — Power On.