Keeping Watch in Salem
We are closely monitoring the Oregon State Legislature as it convenes this month for the 83rd Legislative Assembly.
While we expect 1 of the primary issues this session to be funding for the Oregon Department of Transportation, there are other critical matters we intend to keep at the forefront of our advocacy, most notably wildfire mitigation and the continued importance of the federal hydropower system.
Even during the winter months, our focus on wildfire preparedness does not pause. As in the last legislative session, we will use our time in Salem to educate lawmakers about the growing uncertainty associated with wildfire liability and the need for state policies to recognize that healthy forests and reliable electric service must go hand in hand.
We also plan to raise awareness about the state of Oregon’s lawsuit involving the federal hydropower system that provides affordable, reliable electricity to homes and businesses across the region. According to Northwest Requirements Utilities, the lawsuit could result in rate increases of up to 22% and increase the likelihood of rolling blackouts by 30%. This is particularly concerning given that the previous legislative assembly emphasized the importance of keeping power bills affordable for Oregonians.
Unclaimed Capital Credits
WEC hereby gives notice that unclaimed capital credits payments for the years 1991, 1992, and 1993 have been available since 2021 at the cooperative’s office at 105 East Fourth Street, P.O. Box 1700, The Dalles, OR 97058. A list of members with unclaimed credits is available on our website.
Members or their heirs must claim these payments by May 15, 2026. Any unclaimed credits after this date are forfeited to the cooperative.
Rate Increase
Remember, Wasco Electric Cooperative’s rate increase goes into effect on March 1. This supports the continued reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability of your electric cooperative. Additional details about the rate change are available on our website, and a detailed notice was mailed directly to members the first week of February. We encourage members to review these materials and contact us with any questions or concerns.
General Manager Lindsay Forepaugh