Three candidates declared interest to serve on SEC co-op board

Three people have filed for the Socorro Electric Co-op trustee elections set for April’s Annual Members Meeting.

Jimmy Capps, SEC Director of Communications and Public Affairs said applications were received from two incumbents - Robert Alonzo, District 3, and Eileen Latasa, District 2; and one new candidate - Judy Holcomb, District 3.

Seats open included District 2 from the Magdalena and Alamo areas and District 3 for the City of Socorro.

The Co-op’s Credentials and Election Committee will meet next Monday to review each form to ensure that each candidate meets the Member Qualifications for candidacy in accordance with SEC Bylaws, said Capps.

According to the SEC website, to be eligible for election to the Board of Trustees, candidates must be a member in good standing of Socorro Electric Cooperative, receive electric service within the district they wish to represent, meet all qualifications outlined in SEC bylaws and election policies and be willing to commit the time and effort necessary to fulfill trustee responsibilities

Key responsibilities on the board include approving the annual budget, hiring and evaluating the CEO, establishing electricity rates, adopting policies to guide Cooperative operations and ensuring financial accountability and long-term stability, according to the Co-op’s website.

“Board service is a position of public trust. Trustees are expected to always conduct themselves in a professional and business-appropriate manner, act ethically, maintain confidentiality, and make decisions in the best interests of the entire SEC membership,” the website states.