(Property) Access Granted
How Co-op Members Can Help Us Keep the Power Flowing
When you join MEC, you grant important permissions to the Cooperative that allow us to deliver safe and reliable service to our members. One key permission allows MEC employees and contractors access to your property if cooperative infrastructure or equipment is present. This access is necessary for various reasons, including the safety of our staff, members, and surrounding area, as well as maintaining, repairing, replacing, inspecting, or inventorying equipment and infrastructure.
MEC’s Membership Agreement, which new members must read and sign is important to understand, so let’s start by simplifying property access.
Membership Agreement Excerpt: “The undersigned hereby applies for membership with MEC (hereafter ‘the Cooperative’) and agrees to comply with the Articles of Incorporation, the Cooperative By-Laws, policies, rules, regulations, and rates adopted by the Cooperative and its Board of Trustees.”
Simplified Explanation: MEC members must follow the Cooperative’s governing documents, which include Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, policies, rules, and regulations. These documents cover a wide range of topics essential to the Cooperative’s operations.
Membership Agreement Excerpt: “The Cooperative, through its authorized employees and contractors, shall have access to its equipment at all times (this includes the removal of all obstacles, including pets, that may constitute a hazard), for the purpose of reading meters, testing, repairing, or replacing equipment that is the property of the Cooperative.”
Simplified Explanation: MEC employees and contractors may need to access cooperative equipment at varying times. Staff may need to read meters, test, repair, assess, and inventory or replace equipment. They may also need to assess, design and stake extensions of electric service to adjacent properties. If pets pose a hazard, employees may request their removal from the area while they work. If an obstacle has been built that limits accessibility, it may require removal. For example, the image on this page shows a fence that was built around equipment, limiting accessibility and visibility for field crews. Unfortunately, the fence had to be removed.
Understanding the Membership Agreement helps to ensure smooth operations, friendly rapport, and safety for everyone. By allowing MEC access to equipment on your property, you contribute to the efficient and reliable service that our members expect and deserve.
