Lead the Way

Your Guide to Becoming a Board Member

LEAD. SERVE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Your voice matters- represent your fellow member-owners and help shape the future of your Cooperative. Contact Amy Howard at 800-225-4532 to learn more about serving as a director.

Why serving on the board matters

Board Directors are the member-owners voice. They guide policy, approve budgets and make strategic decisions that impact the Cooperative's service, rates and community programs. Their perspective as a member-owner is vital in keeping your Cooperative strong, transparent and member-focused.

Board Structure

Fourteen directors govern Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative, each elected to represent the members in their district. Your Cooperative has four districts in total and directors serve four-year terms. Terms are staggered within each district so that only a portion of seats are up for election at a time, ensuring continuity and experienced leadership.

What is the Role of the Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative's mission is fulfilled and provides oversight of the President/CEO who leads the employee team of your Cooperative. The board also:

Develops and oversees the strategic direction and objectives of your Cooperative.
Represents the best interests of all member-owners with focus on the Cooperative's long-term health and sustainability.
Ensures appropriate risk oversight including sound internal controls and compliance.
Stays informed through ongoing training and education to keep up with evolving energy industry trends and challenges.

Qualifications

Members must meet specific eligibility requirements as outlined in Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative's Bylaws. They are:

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be a resident of the geographic district from which they are to be elected.
Being an active member in good standing for not less than two years.
Not an employee or spouse of an employee within the past 10 years.
Must not be a close relative of an incumbent director or an employee of the Coopertive or its subsidiaries.
Not employed by, materially affiliated with or have a material financial interest in any individual or entity that is either: 1. Another electric utility or 2. Selling goods and services in substantial quantity to the Cooperative.
Not been convicted of a felony.

What is the time commitment to serve

Directors are elected to a 4-year term.
Board meetings are held monthly, generally on the fourth Thursday of the month, lasting five hours on average.
Preparation for board meetings can take up to three hours to review the agenda and materials.
Directors are expected to attend the Cooperative's annual meeting held in April and the special board reorganization meeting that immediately follows the Cooperative's annual membership meeting.
Attend special board or committee meetings as they arise.
Attend periodic strategic planning events.
Directors are expected to take advantage of educational opportunities that will enhance their understanding of the Cooperative's operations and principles.
Some travel out of state may be required.

What are the benefits of being a director

Play a key role in shaping your Cooperative's policies and strategic direction to create a lasting impact for years to come.
Opportunity to represent the interests of member-owners and your community.
Travel to regional and national meetings to represent Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative.
Per diem and milage reimbursement.

How to Run for Election

Start by filling our your application today!

Complete the Director Nominee Application and return it to our office by January 2, 2026, to be considered for the 2026 ballot. Obtain a Director Nominee Application from the Fall Quarterly newsletter or contact Amy Howard at 800-225-4532.
On January 21, 2026, the Nominating Committee will meet to review applications and nominate eligible member-owners to be placed on the ballot.
Director nominees are asked to attend the Cooperative's Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 11, 2026, where election results will be announced at the end of the business meeting.