Rob Schwartz

Miami-Cass REMC is a member-owned, member-governed cooperative. When the co-op was founded in 1939, members of the community knew that we are a locally-owned business — likely because they played a part in helping found the cooperative. As the novelty of receiving electricity waned, the founders passed on and new people moved into the community, viewing the electric co-op like any other energy provider.

But we are different and the key difference is you, the member-owner of our cooperative. Without your support and commitment, we would not exist. For many years, people had no choice in the company that provided them with the electricity they depended upon, but today, the electric utility industry is changing.

Research proves that when people own something they treat it differently, which is why we encourage Miami-Cass REMC’s members to act as owners rather than as customers. As an owner, you play a critical role in our success. Each year, if our revenue exceeds our expenses (which is always our goal), a certain percentage is allocated back to you — because you are a member of the co-op.

With that ownership comes certain rights —like the opportunity to seek election to serve on the board of directors. If that seems like too big a commitment, we still want and need you to participate in the annual elections.

As a local business, we have a real stake in the community, just as you do. That is why we seek opportunities to engage with local organizations like the YMCA and United Way.

While electric power is the commodity that your co-op sells, the real power is that together, we empower this local community. When people feel empowered they accomplish great things.

True, the world is different today than it was in 1939 when the co-op was founded, but our mission of serving you and our community is constant. Working together with your active, inspired engagement, we can continue to accomplish great things.

ROB SCHWARTZ
CEO