DMEA Board Candidates
The following information was provided by the candidates themselves and does not represent an endorsement by DMEA.
District 3 Candidates
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
Mover
Truckers
Carpenter
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
I graduated from paonia high school in 2010 and ever since then have continued to educate myself on various interests including electricity production and it's many power sources
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
As a board director I would like to balance reliability with cost and self sufficiency within delta and montrose. I believe that with proper planning and investment, we can both lower the cost of electricity and produce our own energy right in our own backyards.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I believe that DMEA runs parallel to many of my own beliefs. Above all I feel that a cooperative such as this embodies democracy and self empowerment. By collectively running our electrical needs, DMEA gives people the chance to sieze their own destiny.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
A director is a member of the board that makes the ultimate decisions about the DMEAs goals and operations. Governance should entail long term planning and a responsibility that mere management often lacks.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
As a life long resident of delta county with a background in service industries and construction I feel a deep connection to the land and community in which I reside. I've developed an ability to communicate with people and explain complex subjects in an easy to digest manner.
Summarize any previous board experience
None
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
I would like to see the portion of electricity produced by DMEA members and the organization itself expand. By becoming more self sufficient, the DMEA can reliably provide power to its members and avoid the ups and downs of an unstable market that can cause expenses to skyrocket.
Candidate Background Statement
As a construction worker I've often dealt with electricity and have learned some of the intricacies of it's operation on an individual level. I've also educated myself on a myriad of of topics from transmission lines to electrical production and the many sources that power our lives,from coal and natural gas to solar and water power. I would bring an unparalleled work ethic and accessibility to your local DMEA director.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
As a ranch real estate broker in Western Colorado, I work with all kinds of landowners and property owners in a variety of unique situations. Of course, electrical power and internet service are major components of their future plans for their properties.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
I am recognized by the Realtors Land Institute as an Accredited Land Consultant, one of only 56 ALC's in Colorado and 728 nationwide, or .0002% of all licensed real estate agents. The ALC designation denotes a high level of proficiency in land transactions, dealing with complex issues such as conservation easements, water rights, utility corridors, data centers, mineral rights, transitional land, and investment properties. Additionally, I am one of only 25 ALC's in the entire country to take an in-depth 16-hour class on alternative energy sources such as geothermal, wind, and solar offered by Craig Kaiser, CEO of LandGate. Most recently, I have been studying the tremendous power usage of data centers, which will become a major concern for electric utilities across the country. I am actively engaged with buyers seeking coal mine methane to produce energy for data centers. On a personal note, I have been friends with Johnny Weiss of Solar Energy International for over 30 years and I've studied solar systems and their efficiency and use for many years.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
I often reflect upon the great cost of providing infrastructure and power to our homes, businesses, and communities. It's amazing how much work, thought, planning, and capital that has been invested to provide the quality of life that we enjoy. We also have a commitment to the environment, to make sure that we are careful stewards of the amazing natural resources that we're blessed with.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I feel my values align closely with DMEA's. I particularly appreciate the role that DMEA has taken in providing high-speed internet across our rural locations. It was visionary and has served our communities well.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
A director's role is to serve as an overseer of the organization, to provide checks and balances, perspective, and expertise in current operations. A director's role is also to provide vision and guidance for future projects.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
I'm a problem solver. In my career, I am often confronted with difficult issues such as disputes over access easements, rights of way, surveys, title issues, conservation easements, land use questions, and neighbor disputes. I do my best to provide rational analysis and careful research to go into depth to solve problems.
Summarize any previous board experience
None—unless you count founding several successful businesses.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
I'm particularly concerned about DMEA's merger with TDS, because I've experienced terrible service and customer care from TDS. I think there will be a big mess to clean up.
Candidate Background Statement
For the past 18 years, I've been an active real estate broker and auctioneer in Colorado and Utah, brokering farms, ranches, resorts, outfitting businesses, hunting property, and luxury estates. I am recognized by the Realtors Land Institute as an Accredited Land Consultant, one of only 56 ALC's in Colorado. I live in Crawford, where my wife and I raise hay, horses, and Labrador retrievers on our 118-acre ranch.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
Prior to being on the DMEA board, I've served multiple roles in the community: Planning Commission, Special Water District Board, Delta Farmer's Union and others. I also run my own farming business, a pastured poultry outfit with a state-licensed processing facility. My experience in both the public and private sectors make me a strong advocate for the members.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
Prior to the DMEA board, I took several board governance trainings through Delta County for the Planning Commission. At the Farmer's Union, I completed multiple leadership trainings from Robert's Rules to making connections at the State Capitol.
Since being on the board, I've taken multiple courses on managing the co-op, and just last month was recognized for completing my CCD(Credentialed Cooperative Director) Certificate through the national co-op organization NRECA.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
This vision aligns with my values as a person. Because of the limited time we have on this earth, we need to ensure our decisions and efforts are towards bettering the quality of our time here. Not just our own experience either, but bettering the quality of life those in our community through healthy food, clean water, and reliable power. I would make it a priority as your board member to always keep the quality of life of our members top of mind when considering decisions that will impact the future of our electric landscape.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I'm proud that DMEA's first value is safety. In such a dangerous field, it can be easy to become complacent the more you work in it, but the staff at this co-op are dedicated to safety. Not only for themselves, but for those they serve as well. The value that really sticks out to me is sustainability. In such a tumultuous time, consistency is a key to prosperity. And without a sustainable model and plan for how we procure our energy in the future, we cannot meet that quality of life. It's the same reason I've chosen to grow healthy food: to contribute to the sustainable raising and producing of healthy food for my family and my community.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
A director's role is one of vision, strategy, and philosophy. A board directs the co-op, which in turn manages themselves in according to the policies, strategy, and discussion held in the board room. It is not the board's role to meddle in the workings of an organization.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
With active my role in other industries(water, planning, and agriculture), I bring a broad understanding of what the needs are of the community. I have the ability to zoom out and see the bigger picture(a core quality of a strong board member). Because of my long tenure as a public servant, I can put my personal opinions aside and consider the implications of a decision for the greater membership.
Summarize any previous board experience
Delta County Planning Commission, Bone Mesa Domestic Water Board, Delta Farmers Union, Valley Organic Grower's Association. I've held roles of secretary, treasurer, vice-chair, and chair.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
DMEA has always been a pioneer in it's decision-making, and it's what drew me to the organization. From getting out of our power-supply with Tri-State, to starting Elevate, to signing on with Guzman and building the Garnet Mesa Solar project. DMEA is a recognized leader both in the state and nationally. The key to that is constant change, because the industry at large is in a major shift. As a board member I would continue to encourage an open mind to how things are shifting, and how we can best align ourselves for a sustainable and reliable future.
Candidate Background Statement
My name is Jacob Gray. I am a farmer, husband, father, and public servant. I own and operate a chicken operation in Paonia. I’ve served on our county’s Planning Commission, Domestic Water Special District, and multiple farm organizations.
I am seeking another term on the board of Directors for DMEA because I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished in just my first term of being on the board. We returned over $9,000,000 in capital credits(profits) to our members; set strategic goals to build our Elevate network to every member by 2028; experienced no rate hikes while the average electricity rate in the state is almost double ours; and we will have the Garnet Mesa Solar project constructed and running by the end of this summer, which at times will serve all our members with renewable energy generated in our backyard. I also recently completed my CCD (Credentialed Cooperative Director) training.
I bring with me experience in private enterprise and public affairs. I will consider the needs of my family, community, and all of our membership when contemplating important decisions that will have implications for the next generation. I would humbly ask your vote for me to sit as the District 3 representative for DMEA. Thank you.
District 4 Candidates
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I spent over 40 years working for a utility company, starting my career as a field technician. From there I moved into a design engineering job, and planning on how to provide services for our customers. I spent a portion of my career working with regulatory issues, dealing with the state public utility commissions, and testifying before the commissions within a 14 state region. I continued as a lobbyist, for legal and regulatory issues, for the state of Montana as a Vice President.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
I had extensive technician on outside services. I then had years of training for utility engineering. I learned to balance customer service needs with company strategies.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
I would try to align the core values of your company, while helping govern with the board.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I have always worked with integrity and put other's needs in the for-front. I see a real value with a company moving forward with transparency but keeping their customers' needs and safety in mind.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
You are governing to be an advocate for the DMEA customer base and give advice aligning with DMEA's values. Management is there to make policies and provide direction for the company.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
I have had many interactions with PUC's and policy making. Realizing policies have effect on your customers.
Summarize any previous board experience
I was a board member for a non-profit charity organization for 10 years.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
not at this time
Candidate Background Statement
I spent over 40 years working for a utility company, starting my career as a field technician. From there I moved into a design engineering job, and planning on how to provide services for our customers. I spent a portion of my career working with regulatory issues, dealing with the state public utility commissions, and testifying before the commissions within a 14 state region. I continued as a lobbyist, for legal and regulatory issues, for the state of Montana as a Vice President. I was also on the FCC Network reliability council developing best practices for internet protocol.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I've spent the last 15+ years working in public service here in Montrose County, and in that time, I've led projects, managed budgets, and brought people together in our community. Right now, I serve as the Assistant County Manager, where I work with departments across the County to and work toward making financially sound decisions that serve the public well.
Before that, I ran the Montrose County Fairgrounds and Event Center, where I helped launch the facility from the ground up. This meant juggling operations, managing staff, building relationships with local agriculture community and event promoters, and ensuring the space truly served the community.
Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for being a good listener, asking the right questions, and keeping things moving forward while staying mindful of the big picture. I’ve worked with tight budgets, complicated regulations, and competing priorities—and I’ve learned how to bring people to the table and find common ground.
Living in a rural area, I understand how important DMEA is—not just for power, but for economic growth, broadband, and local decision-making. I’d bring practical experience, a strong sense of community, and a commitment to keeping our co-op member-focused.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing from Colorado State University, which gave me a strong foundation in budgeting, communication, and strategic planning. I’ve built on that with additional training in leadership, public policy, and community engagement—much of it gained through my work in local government.
Equally important is the real-world experience I’ve gained over the years. From working closely with agricultural and 4-H families while managing the Montrose County Fairgrounds and Event Center, to partnering with public health, emergency services, and contractors on major community projects, I’ve learned how to bring people together, ask good questions, and find practical solutions.
As Assistant County Manager, I’ve also gained firsthand experience working with boards and navigating public processes. I understand the importance of clear communication, accountability, and leading with purpose.
This combination of formal education and hands-on experience has prepared me well to serve on the DMEA Board. I’m ready to listen, contribute, and help guide thoughtful decisions that protect the future of our co-op and the quality of life in our communities.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
DMEA’s vision of Powering Quality of Life really hits home for me. I grew up in Montrose and am now raising my family here, so I’ve seen firsthand how reliable, affordable electricity—and now broadband—is essential to rural life. It’s not just about turning on the lights or getting online. It’s about powering our farms, schools, healthcare, and small businesses. That mission reflects the work I’ve dedicated my career to: supporting community projects, improving quality of life, and helping the western slope thrive.
As Assistant County Manager, I help lead projects that impact daily life—like renovating our historic courthouse, managing public budgets, and improving communication so local government better serves the people. I’m also proud of launching the Montrose County Event Center and helping make it a true community asset. In everything I do, I rely on values that DMEA also prioritizes: transparency, integrity, innovation, and stewardship.
I bring a practical, respectful approach focused on communication and solutions. I believe in cooperation and in making decisions that serve both today and tomorrow. I’ll continue to advocate for DMEA to stay member-focused, expand access to Elevate broadband, and plan wisely for a reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy future.
I want to help ensure DMEA continues to power more than just homes—it powers opportunity and connection for our whole community.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I see a lot of alignment between DMEA’s core values and the way I approach both my work and my life. As someone who’s spent years working in public service, I’ve learned that transparency and integrity aren’t just good ideas—they’re essential. Whether I’m helping manage the county budget or leading a community project, I believe in being honest, approachable and open about the decisions being made and why they matter.
Safety and reliability are also values I hold closely. In my roles at the County, I’ve worked with emergency management, public health, and facilities to ensure the safety of employees and the public, especially during emergencies. People need to know they can count on the systems and services that keep our community running—just like they count on DMEA.
Innovation and sustainability are woven into a lot of what I do. From helping departments rethink outdated processes to managing energy-efficient building renovations, I believe in finding smart solutions that don’t just fix today’s problems—but help us prepare for the future. And I’ve always tried to be a good steward of the resources entrusted to me, whether that’s managing a public facility or allocating grant funding for community needs.
At the end of the day, these aren’t just buzzwords—they’re values I try to live by.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
I believe a Director’s role is about governance—not management—and I have firsthand experience with that distinction through my work as Assistant County Manager. At the County, I’m on the management side, responsible for carrying out the direction and policies set by elected officials. I take their goals and work with staff to bring them to life—whether that’s managing budgets, overseeing projects, or implementing initiatives that serve the public.
That perspective helps guide my approach on the DMEA Board, where my role is the opposite: not to manage, but to help set the vision, define strategic priorities, and hold the co-op accountable to its mission and values. Governance means focusing on the big picture—reviewing budgets, evaluating opportunities, making difficult decisions, and setting clear goals for management to pursue.
Most importantly, it means always looking ahead—not just responding to today’s needs, but planning for what’s next. Whether it’s preparing for changes in energy technology, investing in long-term infrastructure, or maintaining financial strength, the Board must lead with the future in mind.
I understand and respect the line between governance and management, and I believe my background gives me the ability to support, guide, and ask the right questions—without overstepping.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
One of the most valuable things I bring to the DMEA Board is a lifelong connection to this community. I grew up in Montrose, and I deeply value the agricultural roots that this area was built on. I know the importance of honoring that history while also looking ahead—and I believe our co-op plays a key role in bridging that past and future.
In my work with Montrose County, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with people across all corners of our community—from longtime ranching families to small business owners, working parents, and retirees. That wide exposure has given me a real understanding of how different residents experience the challenges and opportunities in our region. And one thing that’s clear across the board is this: reliable and affordable power isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you're irrigating a field, running a small business or trying to keep your home warm in the winter, access to energy you can count on directly impacts your quality of life.
I bring to the Board a blend of local knowledge, public service experience and community perspective.
Summarize any previous board experience
My first exposure to how a well-functioning board operates came early in my career when I worked for the National Western Stock Show in Denver. It was there I saw firsthand what strong board leadership looks like—clear direction, collaborative decision-making, and a deep sense of purpose in serving the organization and its community.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with several boards through my role with Montrose County—including many years of partnership with the Montrose County Fair Board, where I helped support events that brought our ag community together and celebrated our rural roots. I’ve also worked alongside the Board of County Commissioners and collaborated with numerous boards and committees that hosted events at the Fairgrounds & Event Center, gaining valuable insight into the dynamics of public boards.
Most recently, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the DMEA Board of Directors for the past two years. During that time, I’ve learned a great deal from fellow Board members—past and present—as well as from our members themselves.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
There’s nothing specific I feel needs to be changed about DMEA at this time, but that doesn’t mean we can take our foot off the gas. I want to remain on the Board to continue emphasizing the importance of reliable and affordable energy—because for the families, farmers, and small businesses in our communities, that’s not negotiable.
As Colorado leads the charge on clean and renewable energy, I believe it’s more important than ever to have people at the table who are looking out for the long-term impact on our members. I support innovation and sustainability, but not at the expense of affordability or reliability. We need to make sure that the push toward renewables doesn’t put an unfair burden on our rural communities.
That’s why I want to continue working on strategies that prioritize local power generation and battery storage—while being mindful of how those efforts affect our neighbors, landscapes, and shared resources. DMEA has an opportunity to lead, but we have to do it in a way that keeps our members first.
Candidate Background Statement
I was born and raised in Montrose, and now my husband Eric and I are raising our two kids here, too. I’m running for the DMEA Board of Directors because I care deeply about this community and want to help make sure our co-op stays strong, reliable, and affordable for the families, farmers, and small businesses that depend on it every day.
I currently serve as Assistant County Manager for Montrose County, where I work across departments on projects that impact daily life—like securing funding for local programs, renovating our 100-year-old historic courthouse, and improving public communication and transparency.
Earlier in my career, I worked for the National Western Stock Show, which gave me my first look at how an effective board can help an organization thrive. My heart has always been in preserving agriculture and supporting rural communities. That’s why I was proud to help launch and grow the Montrose County Event Center into a true community space.
Since joining the DMEA Board in April 2023, I’ve stayed focused on what matters most: keeping energy reliable and affordable, planning for the future, and being a voice for everyday members.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I have worked with people in many different capacities over my lifetime. I worked in a banking environment for six years, and during that time I trained in different areas, therefore enriching my knowledge. I worked in a busy high school office for nearly ten years. I had multiple duties, all of which taught me not only time management, but also how to deal with many different personalities, involving parents, students, staff and members of school district administration. I left the school district job to pursue a career in Insurance sales. I have been licensed in Life, Accident & Health Insurance in Colorado since 1995, and I have been a self-employed agent since 1997. I am still self-employed in the life insurance industry, which includes setting up Traditional, ROTH, SIMPLE & SEP IRAs. Also included in my services are Fixed Tax Deferred Annuities, Long Term Care Insurance, Small Group Benefits and 401K rollovers.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
After thirty years in the insurance industry, I have completed many hours of Continuing Education to maintain my license. The Continuing Education is ongoing, to meet the requirements for renewal every two years. Being self-employed for so many years has taught me to be organized, self-motivated and very detail oriented. While employed with the school district I was given many opportunities to take advantage of computer classes, which I took advantage of and I actually earned college credits. I feel like these learning opportunities have enriched my general knowledge, therefore making me better prepared for the role of a Director.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
Every aspect of our lives, more now than ever, revolves around having a sound and dependable source of electricity. I sometimes feel that people take for granted the ability to just "flip a switch", which includes our reliance on computer and internet services. DMEA literally holds the means for the consumer's "Quality of Life". Mine included.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
Being self-employed for so many years in a rather delicate career such as life insurance, I have always applied integrity and reliability in helping my clients with the risk management of life. With DMEA, safety, transparency, innovation, and sustainability are important values in planning for the future of our fast-growing region. Having lived in this area for nearly twenty years, I appreciate all of DMEA's Core Values.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
The Directors work together to find solutions and strategies that will hopefully make it easier for management to implement new policies. I feel like a strong Board of Directors that work together become the back-up strength for the Management. The Management needs to feel confident that their Board is available for support.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
I am sure I am not unique in how I feel, but I like to think that as an average member of the co-op I can help to represent the other average members. Perhaps offering a perspective that might be more relatable to the general public. I don't have a college degree and I am certainly not wealthy, but I have worked hard all of my life and I really value this community. While I have lived here, I have admired the way that the DMEA employees seem to take such pride in their work. From the office people that take calls to the workers that come to replace a street light. That is a trickle-down effect that comes from a sound management and a strong Board of Directors.
Summarize any previous board experience
Regarding actual Board experience, I have been on the Board for my HOA for many years. In other similar settings, I am a co-founder of the Montrose Professional Networking group. 2025 is our twentieth year of helping area businesses to grow. I am currently the Vice President of our Leadership Team. For approximately fifteen years I was the Secretary/Treasurer of the West End Art Guild over in the Nucla-Naturita area.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
I personally feel that DMEA does a great job in all areas. I haven't had any negative experiences while living here. When I lived in the Nucla-Naturita area obviously I was a member of the San Miguel Power Co-op. My spouse worked for them starting as an apprentice lineman, working up to being the Systems Planner when he retired. I watched the area deal with the growth of the Telluride Ski Area, and the challenges that San Miguel Power faced. I see a similarity with the rapid growth here in Montrose and the surrounding communities, and the never-ending responsibility of DMEA to meet that growth.
Candidate Background Statement
As I have previously stated, I have worked in many different situations, all of which required me to assist people with their needs. To be available. To be reliable. To pursue my duty to them with the utmost integrity. I still strive to assist people with my life insurance business. There is hardly anything more gratifying than being there for my clients when they suffer the loss of a loved one or family member. Or when they decide to retire and I have helped them over the years to be prepared for that chapter in their life. It always involves assessing their needs and working with them to provide solutions. The same goes with being a productive member of the DMEA Board of Directors.
South Region Candidates
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I have run my own business, a law firm, for more than 30 years. Prior to that I was responsible for administering more than $30 million in contracts and grants from the federal government. I prepared budgets and business plans and ensured that those business plans were being followed properly. This has allowed me to provide appropriate insight to the DMEA Board in my role as Vice President, and has been particularly useful in determining how we could maintain rate stability.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
As a DMEA Board member, I have achieved the status of Certified Coop Director by the National Rural Electric Coop Association. This shows that I understand the unique issues an electric coop faces. I also find, and I believe, other Board members find, that my law degree allowed me to provide important input as we left Tri-state and signed our current Power contract with Guzman Energy. I anticipate this training will allow me to continue as a leader on the DMEA Board.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
I have been an important advocate for DMEA's rate stability. I was one of the leading voices in ensuring that Guzman Energy would build the Garnet Mesa solar farm, which should come online later this year. When it comes online, all or almost all of the electricity used in the DMEA area on sunny days will be locally generated. I am proud of this achievement. I hope to continue to push for local generation in my next term. I was on the Board when we made the decision to make sure all DMEA members would have access to Elevate internet. We have already made it available to over 75% of our members, and I hope to continue this progress toward a goal of 100% of our members by 2028.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
I was directly involved in establishing our core values and believe our emphasis on safety and reliability have been demonstrated by our record, often using our innovative thinking to get there.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
The DMEA Board provides oversight and the staff manages the day to day operations. The Board establishes strategic goals and the CEO and staff then determine the appropriate management steps to achieve them.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
Having completed my Certified Coop Director status, I understand the unique issues faced by DMEA as a member-driven organization. I served on the Colorado Utility Consumers Board for 10 years, and this has given me knowledge and insight into the electric industry as a whole. My experience with budgets and contracts allows me to better understand the DMEA finances and relationships with our suppliers.
Summarize any previous board experience
I have served on the DMEA Board for 6 years, during which we terminated our power supply contract with Tri-state, established our relationship with Guzman Energy, helped bring the Garnet Mesa solar farm to Delta, expanded the availability of Elevate internet to over 75% of our members, and maintained stable rates, with only one rate increase during that time.
I have also served for 10 years on the Colorado Utility Consumers Board. I was elected to 12 years on the Montrose Olathe School Board. I was appointed to the Montrose Planning Commission. I have also served on several local and state boards involved with the legal profession.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
I would like to see the changes DMEA has made while I have been on the Board continue. I hope to help bring the Garnet Mesa solar farm online, continue our impressive progress in building out Elevate internet to all our members, and keep pushing for more local electricity generation. What I would not like to change is our rate stability.
Candidate Background Statement
I believe that my answers to the questions above establish my qualifications for the Board. I would like to emphasize my role in bringing local electric generation to our service area, my role in maintaining affordable rates and my role in continuing to expand Elevate Internet to all our members.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I have had extensive electric utility experience including the following:
Served on the DMEA Board for four consecutive three-year terms.
Served as Vice President of the DMEA Board
Was on the DMEA South Canal Hydroelectric Project negotiating committee
Served as Executive Vice President and acting President of Colorado-Ute Electric Association, the power supplier to DMEA and 13 other electric distribution coops. Was responsible for dealing with the grid and grid problems on a 24/7 basis. Was involved with the Inland Power Pool and the Western Systems Coordinating Council on grid issues. Colorado-Ute was the wholesale power supplier to DMEA prior to Tri-State and Guzman.
Served for seven years as the Montrose County Manager. This required extensive dealing with governmental agencies, the public and employees.
During my tenure at Montrose County, Russell Stover Candies and Colorado-Ute Electric Association, I have been responsible for communication and internet facilities. This along with my extensive experience with electric utilities gives me the broad background to be of value to the DMEA board when governing DMEA.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
Formal education follows:
Graduated 6th grade at Somerset Grade School
Graduated High School at Paonia High School, was Class President my Junior and Senior years. Having been raised in Delta County I am very familiar with Delta County as well as Montrose County. (I was raised at a very small town by the name of Oliver located near Somerset. My father was the Oliver Steam Electric Plant Manager. This provided power to DMEA service territory in the early years. This included power to most Delta County towns, including Paonia, Hotchkiss, Cedaredge and Delta.)
Graduated from Mesa College with an Associate of Science degree in Math and Science.
Graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Graduated from the University of Colorado Graduate School of Business with an MBA degree.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
As a life-long member of Delta and Montrose Counties I have always very much appreciated the great quality of life I have enjoyed. Reliable energy gives you quality of life—DMEA needs reliable energy.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
My values align very well with the DMEA’s values. I totally believe in the coop philosophy which includes honesty and integrity. Those values have made DMEA successful.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
I have had extensive experience serving on boards of directors and working for boards of directors. I believe a director should set the long-term vision of the co-op, approve annual budgets and help the manager and staff with any issues they need help on. I don’t believe in micro-management, but do believe that if the staff is unable to handle a major problem the board needs to be involved in the solution.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
I have managed the load and resource studies, planning, system operations and dispatch for providing the power supply to DMEA and 13 other coops in Colorado. This included the coal fired power plants, the hydroelectric plants, the transmission system, substations, communication facilities and all other requirements of providing a reliable, inexpensive power supply to the 14 Colorado-Ute coops which included DMEA. This knowledge will be very useful when looking at power supply sources and grid issues for DMEA. Currently, across the U.S. and Europe blackouts and rate increases due to power supply and grid problems are of major concern.
I have extensive electrical experience including researching renewable energy resources. I have been a member of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) (the national electric utility research organization) and have served on several committees and task forces that were responsible on a national basis for developing renewable electrical energy resources, and I was an original director on the Solar One Project in Barstow California (the largest solar-electric plant in the US at that time), and many other renewable projects including extensive hydroelectric experience. This will be relevant when evaluating future renewable energy resources.
Summarize any previous board experience
I served four consecutive three-year terms on the DMEA Board.
I also served on 17 other boards of directors including Montrose Economic Development Corporation, West End Economic Development Corporation, Montrose Emergency Telephone Service Authority, Intermountain Energy, Western Resources Independent Power, Colorado Water Congress, Trapper Mining, Inc., Williams Fork Company, Williams Fork Mining Company, Uintah Corporation, Land Resources, Inc., Mack Fuel Supply, Inc., Small Power Producers, Trapper Investments Inc., Loma Mining Company, Colorado-Ute Service Company, and Western Power Producers.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
I would like to emphasize the importance of the power supply and the conditions of the grid. The future of additions and subtractions from the grid is of major importance to DMEA. I would help with the board's understanding of the grid and how it relates to the power supply and the individual members.
Candidate Background Statement
As a Professional Engineer, MBA, and past DMEA Board Director for 12 years I am very concerned that DMEA could have blackouts and rate increases in the future due to problems with the power grid. I will work to prevent this using my extensive experience dealing with the grid. This problem is just beginning to surface across the United States and Europe. DMEA is totally dependent on the grid for power. The trend of increasing unreliable wind and solar on the grid while shutting down and destroying reliable coal and gas plants is a problem which could cause devastating blackouts and rate increases. Colorado plans to shut down all of its very reliable coal plants in the next 6 years…this is unbelievable! DMEA now has a power supply contract with an organization that is primarily a paper company. In the past, I have been the Acting President and also managed System Operations and Dispatch for Colorado-Ute Electric Association where we provided the power to, and dealt with grid problems for DMEA and 13 other member cooperative systems on a 24/7 basis. Also I was a 7-year Montrose County Manager and born and raised in the North Fork Valley. I will be the Board Member looking out for your power supply interests.
Describe how your work experience has prepared you to be a valuable addition to the DMEA Board of Directors.
I’ve spent over 20 years serving the Montrose and Delta communities as a teacher, coach, and school principal. My career has centered around supporting students, families, and staff—building relationships, solving problems, and helping people succeed. Leading schools has taught me how to unite people, navigate challenges, and focus on long-term goals. I’ve worked closely with school boards, community partners, and parents, always striving to make decisions that serve the greater good. I believe that same mindset is essential to board service, which I would bring to DMEA.
Describe how any formal and informal education and/or training has prepared you for the role of a Director.
I earned a Bachelor's in Business Education and a Master's in Educational Leadership, followed by superintendent-level coursework. These programs prepared me to lead strategically, manage resources, and understand governance. Just as important is the informal learning I’ve gained from two decades of public service—listening to people, making tough calls, and building trust. The work of a school principal mirrors board leadership: it’s about people, communication, and making thoughtful decisions that impact the whole community.
DMEA’s vision — "Powering Quality of Life". How does this vision resonate with you, and how would you contribute to advancing it as a Board Director?
This vision resonates with everything I’ve worked for as an educator. Quality of life starts with strong communities—where kids can learn, families can thrive, and people feel safe and connected. As a DMEA Board Director, I’d support policies that keep energy reliable and affordable while continuing to strengthen DMEA’s role as a trusted local partner. I would bring a steady, people-first approach grounded in lifelong service to this region.
How do you feel your values align with DMEA's Core Values?
This vision resonates with everything I’ve worked for as an educator. Quality of life starts with strong communities—where kids can learn, families can thrive, and people feel safe and connected. As a DMEA Board Director, I’d support policies that keep energy reliable and affordable while continuing to strengthen DMEA’s role as a trusted local partner. I would bring a steady, people-first approach grounded in lifelong service to this region.
Explain your understanding of a Director's role in governance, and your view on governance versus management.
Directors govern—representing the membership, setting vision, asking tough questions, and ensuring transparency and accountability. They don’t manage day-to-day operations. As a principal, I’ve worked with school boards that understood this distinction, strengthening us. I know the importance of collaboration, trust, and staying in the right lane. As a DMEA Director, I would bring that same clarity, respect, and focus to board governance.
What unique ability or knowledge would bring to the DMEA Board?
I bring deep community knowledge, a lifelong commitment to service, and experience leading people through challenges and change. I’ve worked directly with students, families, and staff from all walks of life. I know how to communicate clearly, listen with empathy, and stay grounded in values. My experience in Delta and Montrose gives me a broad view of the region and a deep understanding of what matters most to the people here.
Summarize any previous board experience
I’ve spent most of my career working with and alongside school boards. I’ve presented educational goals, budget plans, and student-focused initiatives. I’ve participated in district committees and led school-wide efforts that required collaboration with board members, staff, and the broader community. While I haven’t served on a formal board yet, I’ve lived the responsibilities that come with board-level leadership.
Is there anything about DMEA that you would like to change? If yes, what and why?
DMEA has done an excellent job serving its members, and I respect the cooperative’s focus on innovation and reliability. If I were to focus on any areas for continued improvement, it would be ensuring we keep energy costs as low and predictable as possible. With rising expenses, affordable energy is essential for our region's families, farmers, and small businesses. DMEA should continue leading with transparency and thoughtful planning to help keep costs in check. I’d also like to see a quicker Elevate fiber buildout so that we can reach all our members sooner rather than later. High-speed internet has become critical to daily life, whether for education, work, healthcare, or staying connected. Elevate has already made a significant impact, and accelerating its expansion would further close gaps in access and opportunity across our rural communities. It’s a step that strengthens our cooperative and the lives of the people we serve.
Candidate Background Statement
My name is Joe Simo, and I’ve lived in Montrose and Delta for over 20 years. I’ve taught, coached, and served as a principal in both communities while raising my family here. I care deeply about this region and believe in giving back to the people and places that have given so much to me. As a lifelong educator, I’ve led schools with a focus on relationships, service, and long-term growth. I’ve supported families, built strong teams, and worked with school boards, civic partners, and community members to help students succeed. These experiences have shaped me into a collaborative, steady leader who listens and leads with integrity. I hold degrees in Business Education and Educational Leadership, completed superintendent coursework, and hold a superintendent license. Serving on the DMEA Board aligns with my commitment to this region. I want to ensure our community benefits from reliable, affordable energy while supporting DMEA’s future. That includes thoughtful planning, member-focused service, and expanding access to resources like Elevate fiber. I’d be honored to represent our members with a thoughtful, community-centered voice.