Flathead Electric cancels annual meeting

Flathead Electric Cooperative has canceled its annual meeting that had been scheduled for March 21, in response to Governor Steve Bullock declaring a state of emergency in Montana and President Trump declaring a state of emergency in the nation due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Also effective immediately, the co-op’s offices in Kalispell and Libby are temporarily closed to the public.

“The safety and continued health of our members, employees, and the community is at the forefront of our decision,” Flathead Electric General Manager Mark Johnson said in a press release, noting that public health officials across the nation have recommended limiting large gatherings.

“This was not a decision that our board or management took lightly,” explained Johnson, “and we appreciate our member’s understanding in our choosing to uphold one of our seven guiding Cooperative Principles — Concern for Community.”

The cooperative’s mail-in election will still take place. Co-op members will receive ballots the week of March 23. Completed ballots should be mailed in the pre-addressed enclosed envelop to Survey & Ballot Systems, the co-op’s independent election processing company.

Ballots should not be returned to Flathead Electric Cooperative office. Ballots received at the SBS office on or before April 9 by 5 p.m. will be counted.

Also in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson noted the co-op provides a critical service. “That’s why we’re taking all reasonable and prudent steps to ensure the health of our employees so we can continue meeting the needs of our members through this period of uncertainty,” he said.

While the offices are closed, co-op members can utilize one of the co-op’s other fee-free options to pay their electric bill or manage their account including payment kiosks and drop boxes at both the Kalispell and Libby locations, drive-thru open until 5:30 p.m. in Kalispell, online payments through the Flathead Electric website or mobile app, the pay-by-phone system (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 406-751-1839 or 877-761-4637). For assistance with any of these services, members can call 406-751-4483.

Flathead Electric Cooperative members service representatives will be available throughout this time to assist members who are impacted by the pandemic situation. Those members are asked to reach out to Flathead Electric Cooperative if they need bill assistance.

Members with questions or concerns can contact Flathead Electric Cooperative at 406-751-4483.