Public Power, Community Purpose
1 of the things I appreciate most about public power is that it allows us to focus on what matters most: the people we serve. Whether we’re helping customers lower their energy costs, investing in a safer and more reliable electric system, or supporting the next generation of community leaders, every decision we make begins with the same question: How does this benefit our customers and community?
1 example you’ll notice this month is the California Climate Credit, which appears as a credit on eligible customers’ August electric bills. This credit is funded through California’s cap-and-trade program and returned directly to our customers to help offset a portion of energy costs. We’re pleased to deliver these funds to you and ensure they are returned to the people they’re intended to benefit. We’ve included an informational insert in your August bill. If you’d like to learn more about how the program works or what you’ll see on your bill, I encourage you to read this month’s news release at lmud.org.
This time of year reminds us that serving our community means preparing for challenges before they happen. As wildfire season ramps up, Lassen Municipal Utility District’s crews remain focused on reducing wildfire risk throughout our service territory. Vegetation management, equipment inspections, system upgrades, and line hardening play important roles in protecting our communities while improving electric reliability.
That commitment extends well beyond our field crews. Earlier this year, we established an internal wildfire working group made up of employees from across the organization. Together, the group members are evaluating wildfire risk from multiple perspectives, identifying opportunities to strengthen our system, and developing longterm strategies that improve both wildfire resilience and electric reliability. By bringing together expertise from across the district, we’re taking a proactive approach to protect the communities we serve.
You’ll see that same commitment to community reflected throughout this month’s Ruralite. We’re proud to recognize young people who represent the future of Lassen County through this year’s scholarship recipients and Student Safety Sticker Contest winners. You’ll also find information about our annual calendar photo contest, which celebrates the landscapes, wildlife and communities that make this such a special place to call home.
Finally, I hope you’ll join us for our annual Customer Appreciation Celebration on September 3. It’s 1 of my favorite events of the year because it gives us an opportunity to thank you personally for the trust you place in LMUD. As your community-owned utility, our customers aren’t just the people we serve; they’re the reason we exist.
As always, I invite you to attend our monthly board meetings, held on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Your questions, ideas, and participation help shape the future of your utility.
Thank you for your continued trust as we work together to build a safer, stronger and more resilient future for Lassen County.
Nick Dominguez
General Manager