(Troy Lamana) – It seems like everywhere you turn these days, someone’s talking about accountability, transparency, or fiscal responsibility.
Buzzwords? Maybe. But when it comes to something as crucial as our electricity provider, those words start to mean a whole lot more.
That’s why I’ve put together my plan for the Valley Electric Association (VEA) Board District 1. It’s practical, straightforward, and grounded in the kind of common sense we could all use a little more of.
Let me break it down for you.
Accountability: Turning Promises into Action
First up, accountability. I’ve got some solid ideas here. I’m proposing performance metrics for the board’s decisions. That means clear goals, measurable outcomes, and regular evaluations to see if those goals are being met.
Think of it like setting up a family budget: you make a plan, track your spending, and adjust if needed. It’s not rocket science, but it’s essential.
Then there’s the idea of annual surveys for members. Imagine if, once a year, you got to tell your service providers exactly what you thought of their performance. Did we deliver on our promises? Were your concerns addressed?
My plan puts that power in the hands of VEA members. And to keep things transparent, there’d be quarterly reports showing what’s been done, what hasn’t, and why. No smoke and mirrors—just the facts.
Transparency: Clearing the Fog
Speaking of facts, transparency is next on my list.
Have you ever tried to dig into where your money’s going when it comes to bills? I want to make that easier by pushing for detailed financial updates and making board meetings more open. That means agendas, minutes, and documents would be accessible to everyone.
Some might say, “This will just slow things down,” but honestly, would you rather have a slow process you trust or a fast one that leaves you in the dark?
Plus, my idea of using dedicated communication channels—like an improved website and active social media—sounds like a no-brainer for keeping everyone informed.
Fiscal Responsibility: Making Every Dollar Count
Now, let’s talk money.
Nobody likes wasting it, especially when it comes to essentials like electricity. That’s why I’m proposing a financial oversight committee.
It’s like hiring a mechanic to check out a used car before you buy it. You need that expertise to make sure every dollar is being spent wisely.
I’m also focused on cost-saving initiatives. By modernizing systems and investing in efficient technologies, we can reduce operational costs and pass those savings back to members.
That’s the kind of long-term thinking we need, especially with energy costs being such a big concern these days.
Sustainability: Planning for the Future
One of the most interesting parts of my plan is the approach to renewable energy. While some might be quick to jump into large-scale solar farms, I’m looking at residential solar solutions.
By compensating homeowners fairly for the energy they produce, we can create a win-win scenario. It’s a far cry from the “use it or lose it” policies we’ve seen elsewhere.
Some might argue that renewable energy investments are too expensive upfront. But as I see it, federal and state incentives can offset those costs.
Plus, investing in renewables now can save money down the road and align with the community’s environmental values.
Community Engagement: A Two-Way Street
Finally, there’s community engagement. I want to make sure the board’s decisions truly reflect what members want.
Quarterly town hall meetings, advisory committees, and revamped social media strategies all aim to create an open dialogue between the board and the community. It’s important to prioritize listening as much as leading.
The Bigger Picture
At the end of the day, my plan boils down to something simple: treating people with respect.
That means respecting your money by managing it wisely, respecting your voices by keeping communication open, and respecting your needs by delivering reliable and affordable energy.
Of course, no plan is perfect. Some might worry about the cost of implementing these changes or the time it might take to see results.
But isn’t it worth it to invest in a system that works better for everyone in the long run?
So, what do you think? Does my plan sound like the kind of change we need?
It’s a lot to consider, but with so much at stake, it’s a conversation worth having. And hey, if nothing else, it’s a reminder that we all have a say in how our communities are run. Let’s use it.
Mr. La Mana is the Treasurer of the Nye County Republican Party and an Air Force veteran. The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views.
