SB 2410 seems out of step with what we are trying to promote in North Dakota. We do a good job of policing ourselves. The co-ops in North Dakota have not abused the confidence of our customers. Bob Horne, manager of the Minot office for Verendrye Electric Cooperative, also wonders why the bill was introduced. Verendrye has a nine-member board, elected locally by the membership.
Cooperatives are very democratic and local control is key to managing.
Horne stressed the importance of retaining the local control and the effects that the loss of local decisions can have on the company and consumer, especially in rates. We conduct our business by good management and treating our members well. Our service is excellent and our rates are quite low. For over 60 years we have had local control and we feel this bill is quite intrusive legislation. The bill prohibits local control and prohibits economic development.