All cooperatives, including Medina Electric Cooperative, adhere to the same set of seven principles that reflect our core values of honesty, transparency, equity, inclusiveness and service.
October is National Co-op Month, so this is the perfect time to reflect on these principles that have stood the test of time and provide a framework for the future.
Voluntary and Open Membership
In 1938, a group of neighbors banded together for the benefit of the whole community, and the newly established electric lines helped power homes and provide economic opportunity in our communities. For almost 84 years, we have continued to power our members’ lives and empower our communities. Membership is open to everyone in our service territory.
Democratic Member Control
Our co-op is well-suited to meet the needs of our members because we are locally governed. Each member gets a voice and a vote in how the co-op is run, and each voice and vote are equal. Our board members live locally on co-op lines, and they have been elected by neighbors just like you.
Members’ Economic Participation
As a utility, our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to our members. Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of Medina EC. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the cooperative. Members allocate surpluses for co-op programs, initiatives, capital investments and supporting other activities.
Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If we enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, we do so on terms that ensure democratic control by our members and maintain cooperative autonomy.
Education, Training and Information
Medina EC values education for our employees, our members and the community. We invest in ongoing training for our team to ensure they have the skills needed to best perform their job. We also participate in community-wide events to promote the cooperative story and electrical safety and share current utility information.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
From offering aid to other cooperatives after storms and tragic events to supporting cooperatives lighting the way in developing countries, co-ops are stronger because we work together locally, regionally, nationally, and even internationally with other co-ops.
Concern for Community
As a co-op, we are here to power our members but are also motivated by service to the community rather than profits. We work for the sustainable development of the communities we live in and serve.
Because we are guided by the Seven Cooperative Principles, it’s not just about dollars—it’s about opportunity for all and being fair when engaging with our members. We’re proud to serve you as a co-op, and hope that you may better understand the cooperative difference.
Until next time,
Trey Grebe
