Since Northeastern is a cooperative, each member is considered an owner of the company. The fact that we are owned by our members, instead of stockholders, makes this organization different from most other large utility companies. We are locally owned and locally controlled.

Every member has an equal voice in how this company is run. Northeastern’s service area is divided into nine districts. Members are given the opportunity to select a representative from their area to serve on the board. Each year, at the cooperative’s annual meeting, three district director positions are filled. The board is the legal body which both the member and the government hold accountable for the actions of the organization.

What is expected of a director?

Director candidates often ask this question when they consider running for a position on our board of directors. The following is a list of the minimum requirements for a Northeastern REMC director.

Directors are expected to attend all regular monthly board meetings.

Directors are expected to attend all special board meetings, committee meetings and the Northeastern REMC annual meeting. Directors should also attempt to attend one National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) meeting or director's conference every year.     

Other meetings directors attend include one and two-day educational seminars. Directors are encouraged to complete their NRECA Credentialed Director's Certificate during their first term (directors serve a three year term).     

Directors receive a per diem and mileage reimbursement for attending cooperative meetings. They receive transportation, lodging and meal expenses when traveling on corporate  business.     

Directors spend up to 30 days each year representing Northeastern REMC.

A director is expected to read and be familiar with information and financial reports from the cooperative, or other state and national associations.     

A director is elected to represent a district, but is responsible for decisions affecting the entire membership.     

Directors should work in harmony with the whole board. A director must also have the self-confidence and communication skills to express their opinion or disagreement with other directors.    

Like you, Northeastern's directors are our members. They pay monthly electric bills like other Northeastern members. They do not receive discounted power and their bills are not subsidized. They are just as interested as any other member in the most economical operation of the cooperative possible.    

The directors of Northeastern REMC are elected because they are business-minded, well-known and highly respected. Director elections are open to all members, regardless of race, sex or creed.    

Elections will be held at the annual meeting. Additional details are provided in the Northeastern REMC bylaws.