5 Ways to Encourage Member Voting

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Why This Matters for Rural Electric Co-ops

Low turnout in board elections weakens democratic member control. It also leaves boards with a thin mandate when they face big decisions on rates, power supply, or bylaws. This article names five common reasons members skip voting (time, confusion, forgetfulness, weak member identity, and apathy) and pairs each with a practical fix.

A co-op can use it as a quick checklist before its next election cycle. It helps staff audit ballots, reminders, and communication channels, and spot easy changes like adding an online voting option or simplifying voting instructions.

Key Takeaways

Implementation Considerations

• Cost or Funding Requirements: Online voting portals, ad campaigns, and printed reminders carry costs. The author's firm sells several of these services, so co-ops should compare vendors and weigh low-cost options first.
• Regulatory or Governance Considerations: Adding electronic voting or changing ballot procedures may require bylaw amendments and board approval. Check state law and election security requirements before switching.
• Time-Sensitive Information: The supporting figures come from 2018 to 2020 surveys and case studies. Turnout results and member channel preferences may have shifted since publication.

Notable Examples

• Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative: Raised voting participation 184% by offering an online voting portal alongside paper ballots.
• Wiregrass Electric Cooperative: Ran a multimonth bylaws campaign with ads and a social video explaining how to vote.
• Poudre Valley REA: Placed a mirror in its lobby to reinforce that members own the co-op.
• Touchstone Energy: Its Co-op Connections Program shows members the financial benefits of membership.

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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes