Why I’m Running for Re-election

The most important question any candidate for office must be able to answer is quite simple:

Why are you running?

On the surface, it's a pretty straightforward question, but for many candidates, a solid answer escapes them.

Mine is pretty simple:

My first term in office was very much about reshaping the vision and direction of OPPD, and in my humble opinion my colleagues on the board and I did just that. Now it's time to implement that vision! And I couldn't be more excited to do so.

Let me elaborate...

My five years on the board have been some of the most fulfilling work of my life. I’m proud to say we have accomplished quite a bit. The board set a long-term goal of net zero emissions by 2050. The district is in the early stages of executing on its Power with Purpose plan to add significant solar capacity with natural gas backup. We hired a new CEO, Javier Fernandez, who is an exceptional leader. Decommissioning of the Fort Calhoun nuclear plant is on time and on budget. We held firm on five straight years of no general rate increases (although a modest increase was required in 2022), and the district continues to be an industry leader in reliability, safety, economic development, customer service, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

I have no doubt that OPPD is headed in the right direction - towards a clean and climate-friendly future that also provides customer-owners with reliable, resilient and affordable service. And while the vision for OPPD’s future is clear and true, much work is needed to get there. Our work turns to implementing that vision, which is arguably more difficult. It requires deep knowledge of the industry, smooth navigation of the politics, learning from our challenges, and pragmatically moving the organization through the transition ahead. Knowledgeable leadership will be critical to carry OPPD through these times of significant industry change and ensure we are better on the other side.

I’m energized by what lies ahead and look forward to continuing this work. Knowledgeable leadership will be critical to carry OPPD through these times of significant industry change and ensure we are better on the other side. It's the very knowledge and leadership I have and will continue to bring to OPPD.