Letter to the Editor: Adams supports OPALCO teamwork in conserving and developing energy

Dear Editor,

These are inspiring times. Significant change is afoot. For some of us this gives pause: in what do we anchor the future? Increasingly many are turning to local sources.

For local and reliable OPALCO is a proven source. This small co-op is a shining star. Accessibility to the board and management is immediate and local.

I am running for a district 2 seat on the OPALCO board. A confluence of changes in attitude, technological advances, political attention and need creates opportunities for us to consider energy use and generation in new ways. Change for even a small co-op is complex and, of economic necessity, incremental.

Having lived on and off the grid for 32 years in San Juan County, I bring a lifetime of experience and attention to the issues of power generation. Through continual community action and volunteerism I developed a profound respect for the value of community process, locally generated strategies and the deep intellectual capacity of my neighbors.

BPA (Bonneville Power Administration) plans to raise wholesale rates (what OPALCO pays for our island electricity). Energy conservation is the first line of action for keeping our electricity rates as low as possible.

As a member on your board I would bring considerable awareness to these issues and choices. We are well situated in the San Juans. We have a well run, financially sound and excellently staffed electrical co-op.

And as the alternative power industry grows, we can begin to harness wind, sun and tidal power. I would like to be part of the team that helps OPALCO make the most of this time of opportunity.

When you vote, please consider me.

Sincerely,
Winifred Adams