DMEA Board Candidates Uncontested in Election; Members to Vote on Articles of Incorporation by Ballot

MONTROSE, Colo.—Delta-Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) has verified three candidates for its 2026 director election following the close of the petition period. The candidates include incumbents Enno Heuscher (District 6), Damon Lockhart (District 7), and Stacia Cannon (North Region).

Because all director candidates are running unopposed, members will be asked to confirm the candidates by voice vote at the Annual Meeting rather than voting by ballot, consistent with DMEA bylaws. The official ballot will include a separate vote on a proposed amendment to the Articles of Incorporation that would change director term limits. At its March meeting, the board voted to refer this potential change to the membership for consideration.

The proposed change would allow directors to serve four 4-year terms (16 years total) if members continue to elect them. The proposal also includes a four-year break before directors can run again. Serving on the board of an electric cooperative and making complex decisions requires significant experience and training. It takes directors five to six years to complete certifications for both electric and broadband leadership courses, gain industry knowledge, and fully develop expertise in cooperative governance. Extending potential service time helps preserve experienced leadership and continuity on the board while long-term projects are planned and executed.

Currently, directors may serve four 3-year terms (12 years total) if members continue to elect them. Directors must wait two years after reaching the term limit before running again.

Members vote in every director election, and this proposal does not change the cooperative’s democratic election process. It will allow members the option to retain experienced directors longer if they believe those directors are serving the cooperative well. If approved, the proposed change will take effect for directors elected in this year’s election. Other directors would finish their 3-year terms before being eligible to run for a 4-year term.

Voting opens on May 15, 2026. Members can vote online, by mail, or in person. Election results will be announced at the 2026 Annual Meeting at Olathe High School on June 18 from 4:30-8:00 p.m. Members and their families are invited to enjoy free entertainment, local food options, including live music, prizes, and kids’ activities.

To view more information regarding the ballot issue, elections, or the annual meeting, please visit dmea.com/elections.