Chaffee/Lake County Board Candidate – Charlie A. Abel

How Long Have You Been a Member of SDCEA?

I have been a member of SDCEA for 30 years and have lived in the service territory for over 50 years.

What Insights Do You Feel You Could Bring to the Board That Would Increase Their Understanding of All Members?

I have been, and continue to be, a “student” of the electric utility industry and my role as a cooperative board member since my election in 2015. I believe the important aspects of striving to be an effective board member are grounded in 1) having a curious, open mind, 2) listening and seeking knowledge to facilitate sound decision-making, 3) acting in the best interests of the entire membership, and 4) communicating decisions clearly and timely.

What Insights Do You Feel You Could Bring to the Board That Would Increase Their Understanding of All Members?

Board members should be accessible and listen to members’ concerns and comments. Board members should also strive to communicate facts clearly and timely and respect that the board “speaks” as 1 voice in matters of policymaking.

What Education and Background Experience Do You Have That Specifically Apply to Governing This Electric Cooperative?

I have over 20 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant and small business owner. I have served on the Buena Vista School Board, and was a founding member and Treasurer of the Chaffee County EDC. I have earned the respect of our communities as a thoughtful leader and trusted confidant by acting with integrity, confidence, and purpose. I have the capacity and competence to grasp the “big picture” while maintaining a watchful eye on the details.

What Are the 3 Most Important Issues to Members That SDCEA Should Focus On?

I firmly believe the future of energy in all of Colorado and the West must consider an appropriately balanced “all of the above” approach to ensure both reliability and affordability. SDCEA’s primary responsibility is to deliver reliable and affordable electricity safely to the members of our beautiful mountain valleys.

How Do You View the Future of Energy in Central Colorado (i.e., Affordability, Renewable Energy, Electric Vehicles, Battery Storage, Micro-Grids, etc.) and What Is SDCEA’s Primary Responsibility Moving Forward?

I firmly believe the future of energy in all of Colorado and the West must consider an appropriately balanced “all of the above” approach to ensure both reliability and affordability. We can and should continue to pursue resiliency projects that enhance electric reliability locally and must continue to encourage and support Tri-State efforts to advance purposeful additions in the West. SDCEA’s primary responsibility is to deliver reliable and affordable electricity safely to the members of our beautiful mountain valleys and I believe the cooperative achieves this mission to the best of our abilities.

Please Add Anything Else You Would Like Members to Consider.

We have good momentum to continue to advance a secure energy future, both locally and regionally, and the path ahead will require seasoned, courageous, and committed leaders to drive results and make hard decisions. It is a privilege to serve the entire cooperative family, especially our local cooperative membership and I am highly motivated and well-prepared to continue to serve as your representative and your voice on the SDCEA board of directors. Thank you for your vote!