MRES Today July-August 2026

ROUTE PERMIT APPROVED FOR BSSA TRANSMISSION PROJECT

The Big Stone South to Alexandria (BSSA) 345-kilovolt transmission project reached a major milestone June 25 when the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MN PUC) provided the written order approving the route permit for the Minnesota portion of the approximately 96-mile transmission line. Western Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (WMMPA)/ Missouri River Energy Services (MRES) and Otter Tail Power Company will co-own the transmission line, which will connect Otter Tail Power’s existing substation near Big Stone City, South Dakota, with MRES’ existing substation near Alexandria, Minnesota.

Otter Tail Power is leading development and construction of the project. The new transmission line will strengthen the regional transmission system, improve reliability during extreme weather and support growing energy needs across the region.

The route permit approval follows two key regulatory milestones: the MN PUC’s Certificate of Need approval in October 2024 and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission’s Facility Permit approval for the South Dakota portion of the line in January 2025. The companies filed the Minnesota Route Permit application in October 2024. With all major state permits now approved, right-of-way agents will begin working with landowners to secure easements and determine structure locations along the approved route. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, with the line scheduled to enter service by the end of 2030.

To learn more about the BSSA project, please visit bigstonesouthtoalexandria.com.

BOARD APPOINTMENTS AND RETIREMENTS

HONEYWELL JOINS THE MRES BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kristi Honeywell has joined the MRES board of directors, bringing decades of experience in engineering, public administration and municipal leadership to the organization.

Honeywell serves as city administrator for Pierre, South Dakota, where she oversees the daily operations of city government and approximately 165 employees across multiple departments. Since joining the city in 2017, she has helped lead several major community projects, including a new city hall, a state-of-the-art water treatment plant and a modern outdoor aquatic facility.

“I’m honored to serve on the MRES board and represent both Pierre and the member communities that make up the organization,” Honeywell said. “I appreciate the collaborative approach MRES takes and look forward to contributing to discussions that help shape the future of public power.”

Honeywell grew up in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and came to Pierre after accepting an engineering position with the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources. She later spent 24 years in state government, including leadership roles as state engineer and deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Administration, overseeing statewide facilities, infrastructure and engineering projects.

As she begins her role with MRES, Honeywell is focused on learning from fellow board members and sharing her broad experience. Honeywell was appointed to the MRES board at the June meeting, succeeding longtime Pierre representative Brad Palmer. She believes strong partnerships and collaboration are key to addressing challenges facing communities and utilities, including workforce development, infrastructure needs and long-term energy planning.

Outside of work, Honeywell enjoys spending time with her husband, George, and her family, including her two children and three grandchildren, with another grandchild expected later this year.

BRAD PALMER RETIRES FROM MRES BOARD

After years of dedicated service to public power and MRES, Utility Director Brad Palmer from Pierre, South Dakota, retired from the MRES board of directors with a legacy of thoughtful leadership and commitment to member communities.

Palmer joined the MRES board in June 2022. Throughout his tenure, he helped guide important discussions involving MRES power supply resources, infrastructure investments and long-term reliability strategies that benefit member communities and customers.

A longtime public power leader, Palmer served the City of Pierre for more than 20 years, most of those as utility director. In 2025, he was inducted into the South Dakota Municipal League Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to municipal government and public service.

Reflecting on his time with MRES, Palmer said he is most proud of helping oversee the transition to a new generation of organizational leadership while maintaining the employee-focused culture for which MRES is known. He also noted the growing challenges utilities face in developing new generation and transmission resources to meet rising energy demands.

Palmer praised MRES for the support it provides beyond power supply, serving as a trusted resource and advocate for members at the local, state, regional and federal levels.

In retirement, Palmer and his wife, Gidget, plan to relocate to Rapid City, where they look forward to spending more time with family, enjoying the Black Hills and continuing their prison ministry work. While he may miss his board meeting trips to Sioux Falls, Palmer leaves MRES with confidence in its future and appreciation for the communities and people he has served.

Rich Kruthoff, MRES vice president & chief information officer

FROM THE EXECUTIVE TEAM: CYBERSECURITY STARTS WITH PEOPLE

When people think about cybersecurity, they often picture firewalls, software updates and complex systems working behind the scenes. While those tools are important, one of the most critical factors in protecting our utilities is something more familiar: people.

Across every industry, including public power, many successful cyberattacks don’t begin with a failure of technology, but with a moment of human error. A suspicious email is opened. A fraudulent request appears legitimate. A password is shared or reused. Cybercriminals understand that people are often the easiest path into an organization.

Today’s cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated. Phishing emails, credential theft and other forms of social engineering are designed to appear trustworthy and urgent. Attackers often impersonate coworkers, vendors or executives attempting to gain access to systems and sensitive information. These tactics continue to evolve, making awareness and vigilance more important than ever.

Fortunately, awareness is also evolving. Cybersecurity training has moved beyond annual compliance exercises. Organizations are investing in employee awareness — practical, ongoing education that helps us all recognize threats in real-world situations. Simulated phishing campaigns, scenario-based training and regular security reminders are helping build stronger habits and better decision-making across our organizations.

At the same time, MRES and our member utilities face challenges in recruiting and retaining cybersecurity professionals. The demand for skilled cybersecurity talent continues to outpace supply, creating a highly competitive market. This reality also highlights the importance of strengthening cybersecurity awareness across our entire membership. Every utility and employee contributes to the security posture within their community, regardless of their role.

Building a culture of cybersecurity means creating an environment where security is considered every day. It involves setting clear expectations, encouraging employees to report concerns, reinforcing accountability and modeling secure behaviors throughout the organization.

Cybersecurity is every employee’s responsibility. By remaining informed and proactive, we can reduce risk and help protect the systems and services that MRES, our members and their communities depend on every day.

As the threat landscape continues to change, one principle remains: cybersecurity begins and ends with people. And when everyone plays a role, we are all stronger because of it.

Join us for an instructor-led training seminar designed to enhance your cybersecurity knowledge and skills.

Wednesday, Aug. 26 • 10 am – 5 pm

Thursday, Aug. 27 • 8 am – 4 pm

MRES Training Room • 3724 W Avera Dr • Sioux Falls, SD

Using real-world examples and hands-on demonstrations, participants will understand how typical cyberattacks happen and the necessary steps to safeguard sensitive data. They will acquire practical skills to identify threats, implement best practices, and contribute to creating a safer work environment.

• Utility leadership • Operations staff • IT staff WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

• Employees looking to increase their knowledge of system security

COST: $99 per person (lunches/dinner included)

More information, to register and book your hotel room, go to mrenergy.com under Events or go to qrco.de/CE26.

For quick access, scan the QR code.

Questions, call 605-338-4042 or email info@mrenergy.com.

Registration is due by Aug. 7.

PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR MAJOR FALL OUTAGE AT EXIRA STATION

Planning and preparation are in full swing at Exira Station as MRES engineers and plant staff gear up for one of the facility’s most significant maintenance efforts in recent years. The outage, which is scheduled for this fall, will primarily be on Unit 2 and includes critical inspections, repairs and routine maintenance.

The focus is a planned replacement of key combustion system components discovered during a routine inspection. MRES leadership also approved advancing additional maintenance work that was originally scheduled for a later year, allowing multiple major projects to be completed during a single outage window.

“Any time we can combine major maintenance activities into one planned outage, it helps us reduce future downtime and maintain a high level of reliability for our members,” said Brent Moeller, director of generation resources. “This project is really about being proactive and making sure the plant continues to perform when it’s needed most.”

Over the last several months, MRES and plant staff have coordinated schedules, ordered materials, lined up contractors and developed detailed work plans. “This level of work takes a tremendous amount of planning before the outage ever begins,” Moeller said.

“The addition of the turbine shop is a game changer. It allows us to complete major maintenance work here at Exira, which improves flexibility and helps us get units back in service more quickly.”

A key advantage for this year’s project is the completion of Exira’s new on-site turbine shop. In the past, major turbine maintenance would have required shipping large components to outside facilities or temporarily repurposing other plant buildings for repair work. The addition, completed July 1, 2026, provides a dedicated space where much of the work can be done, reducing transportation risks, improving efficiency and giving plant staff greater control over the project schedule.

- Brent Moeller, director of generation resources

The work involves highly specialized turbine equipment with an overall goal to replace and refurbish components that naturally experience wear after years of operation. By completing the work now, the crew can minimize the risk of unplanned outages and maintain the plant’s strong operational performance.

“The addition of the turbine shop is a game changer,” Moeller said. “It allows us to complete major maintenance work here at Exira, which improves flexibility and helps us get units back in service more quickly.”

The outage is one part of a busy fall season that includes routine inspections, electrical testing and other maintenance activities.

“The Exira crew takes a lot of pride in keeping the plant operating at a high level,” Moeller said. “This outage represents a significant investment in the future of the plant and helps ensure we can continue providing reliable generation within the region.”

MRES, PARTNERS HELP TURN ENERGY PLANNING INTO SAVINGS

A recent project in Lac qui Parle County in Minnesota highlights the power of collaboration in turning energy planning into results.

Through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program, the county partnered with Madison Municipal Utilities, MRES and Franklin Energy to complete comprehensive energy audits across multiple public facilities. The audits provided a roadmap for prioritizing efficiency improvements.

Using insights from the assessments, the county upgraded fluorescent lighting to LEDs in the Public Health Building and University of Minnesota Extension offices, and delivered both operational improvements and financial benefits, including a $1,019.20 rebate.

“Having the audit reports helped us prioritize exactly where to focus,” said Jake Sieg, Lac qui Parle County administrator. “It gave us expert guidance and clear payback estimates that made decision-making much easier. It took the guesswork out of the process.”

“The biggest benefit was having a clear roadmap,” said Lyndon Worden, Lac qui Parle County facilities manager. “The lighting upgrades gave the buildings a fresh, clean look and employees immediately noticed the difference. The audit process was simple, and now we have a plan in place for future energy-saving projects.”

The EECBG program, administered regionally by the Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission, allows local governments to access funding for audits, planning and technical assistance often at no cost.

Minnesota

recent energy efficiency upgrades supported through the EECBG program.

MRES’ long-standing relationship with Franklin Energy, a third-party company, helped streamline the process, ensuring the county had both the data and support needed to move quickly from assessment to implementation.

With additional funding still available, communities are encouraged to explore similar opportunities. As Lac qui Parle County demonstrates, small upgrades guided by strong partnerships can deliver energy savings and long-term value.

JOIN US FOR THE 2026 REGIONAL MEMBER SERVICES ROUNDTABLES

MRES member utilities are invited to attend one of the 2026 Regional Member Services Roundtables, designed to provide updates, insights and opportunities to connect with peers from across the membership.

This year’s agenda includes discussions on powering large point-load requests, emerging and innovative technologies, utility rates and financial fundamentals, and the latest marketing research and consumer trends. Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in interactive “Voices Around the Table” discussions, where topics are driven by the interests and challenges of participating members.

CHOOSE THE MOST CONVENIENT LOCATION:

⊲ Sept. 23 – Sioux Center, Iowa

https://bit.ly/RESRoundtables-IA

⊲ Sept. 24 – Sioux Falls, South Dakota

https://bit.ly/RESRoundtables-SD

⊲ Sept. 29 – Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

https://bit.ly/RESRoundtables-MN

POWER WITH A PURPOSE: MY LIGHT UP NAVAJO EXPERIENCE

THROUGH THE EYES AND WORDS OF BRYAN HALL, APPRENTICE LINEWORKER, HILLSBORO, NORTH DAKOTA

When I signed up for Light Up Navajo, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. A council member from Hillsboro had attended an MRES meeting, heard about the volunteer opportunity, and asked if I’d be interested. I said yes, and a few months later I found myself heading south to help bring electricity to homes across the Navajo Nation.

I’m originally from West Fargo, North Dakota, and now work for the City of Hillsboro, where I’m currently in my third year of apprenticeship training through the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA). While linework is my profession, Light Up Navajo offered something different — a chance to use those skills to make a direct impact on families still waiting for something many of us take for granted.

The days started early. We were usually on the road by 6 a.m. and ready to work by 7. In this photo, our convoy is heading into a canyon before sunrise on our second day. The roads were quiet, the air was cool and the desert was just beginning to wake up around us.

Back home in North Dakota, I’m used to open prairie. Driving through canyons and rock formations on the way to a job site was something entirely different.

The work itself was familiar — framing poles, setting poles and connecting customers — but the setting was unlike anything I had experienced. The vast desert landscape, long travel distances, sandy terrain and rock formations made every day memorable. Just as memorable were the people. There was a strong sense of purpose among everyone.

I took these photos as I experienced Light Up Navajo.

Here, a pole is being framed and prepared for installation. Every crossarm, insulator and hardware component must be installed correctly before the pole is set.

The backdrop in this photo is almost hard to believe. We were working in some of the most impressive scenery I’ve ever seen.

One thing that stood out during the week was the amount of travel involved. The distances between work locations could be significant, and some crews spent hours each day getting to and from their assignments.

Being from the Midwest, I’m no stranger to long drives, but the scenery here was unlike anything at home. Every trip offered another view of mesas, cliffs and rock formations. These drives also highlighted how isolated some homes are. Seeing the distances firsthand helped me better understand the challenge of bringing power to customers scattered across such a large area.

This photo shows our crew framing a pole before it was installed. Everyone had a role, and every step mattered. We spent much of the week framing and setting poles, preparing the infrastructure needed to bring power to new customers.

The sandy terrain added a new challenge compared to the conditions I typically work in. Sand found its way into everything — our equipment, our clothes and even our lunches. Despite that, the work moved efficiently because everyone focused on doing their part.

This view shows a section of line taking shape across the desert landscape. By this point in the day, multiple poles had already been installed and the project was beginning to look like a functioning distribution line rather than a construction site.

Seeing the line stretch across the terrain was rewarding because it represented real progress. Every pole brought us one step closer to energizing another home. The terrain could be challenging, but moments like this reminded us why we were there.

Continued on Page 8.

This photo was taken just before lunch as crews continued setting poles with the pressure digger. Most days followed a steady rhythm: build, set, move, repeat. The work was physically demanding, but one of the best parts of the week was getting to know people from different utilities and learning how they approached the same challenges. Despite coming from different places, everyone shared the same commitment.

After energizing our first customer, we loaded up and headed to the next location. During the first two days, much of our work focused on bringing service to individual homes. Each completed connection represented a family receiving electricity.

What struck me most was how meaningful those moments were to the residents. For many of us, power is something we rarely think about until it goes out. Seeing firsthand what it means to families who have waited years for service gives you a completely different perspective on the importance of our work.

At the end of each day, many of us gathered back at the hotel to talk about what we accomplished and share stories from the field. Those conversations became one of the most memorable parts of the trip. We came from different communities and utilities, but we were united by a common purpose.

The appreciation shown by the people of the Navajo Nation was incredible. At the community dinner, residents shared stories about receiving power and what it meant for their families. Hearing those stories put everything into perspective. Light Up Navajo is about improving lives. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to be part of it.

MRES Leadership & Workforce Development Strategist Andrew Johnson led the organization of two crews of lineworkers from among the membership and MRES distribution maintenance. Volunteer lineworkers participated during the weeks of April 12-18 and April 19-25.

MRES extends its appreciation to all the lineworkers who participated in the 2026 Light Up Navajo initiative. They include:

APRIL 12-18

⊲ Scott Bortscheller, electric superintendent, Alton Municipal Utilities

⊲ Jim Reisz, utility superintendent, Woodbine Municipal Light & Power

⊲ Nick Rife, apprentice lineworker, Denison Municipal Utilities

⊲ Joe Poggensee, apprentice lineworker, Denison Municipal Utilities

⊲ Bryan Hall, apprentice lineworker, Hillsboro Municipal Utilities

⊲ Ryan Nelson, journey lineworker, Moorhead Public Service

⊲ Devan Schuler, journey lineworker, Moorhead Public Service

⊲ Tyler Kari, journey lineworker, Moorhead Public Service

APRIL 19-25

⊲ Andy Niemann, journey lineworker, Watertown Municipal Utilities

⊲ Nathan Sime, journey lineworker, Watertown Municipal Utilities

⊲ Tyler Schmitz, journey lineworker, Detroit Lakes Public Utilities

⊲ Christian Petron, apprentice lineworker, Detroit Lakes Public Utilities

⊲ Clay Welchlin, journey lineworker, MRES – Jackson, Minnesota

⊲ Braydon Ripka, apprentice lineworker, MRES – Luverne, Minnesota

TOUR RED ROCK

HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT

MRES is inviting representatives from its member municipal electric utilities to take a closer look at one of the region’s renewable energy resources through a series of guided tours at the Red Rock Hydroelectric Project near Pella, Iowa.

The tours offer participants an opportunity to see firsthand how hydropower is generated and how the facility contributes to the reliable, diverse power supply that serves MRES member communities. Guests will gain insight into the operation of the plant, learn about the benefits of hydropower, and see how the energy of flowing water is converted into electricity.

Each tour lasts approximately one hour and is limited to 30 participants, providing an engaging and informative experience for attendees.

Participation is free, but pre-registration is required. Tours are open to individuals ages 16 and older, and all participants must wear closed-toe shoes.

Whether you are interested in learning more about renewable energy, gaining a deeper understanding of the MRES power supply portfolio, or simply exploring a generation facility up close, the Red Rock Hydroelectric Project tour offers a unique behind-the-scenes experience.

TOURS ARE SCHEDULED FOR:

⊲ July 28 | 9:30-10:30 a.m.

https://bit.ly/RRHPTour-Jul28

⊲ Aug. 24 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. (National Hydropower Day)

https://bit.ly/RRHPTour-Aug24

⊲ Sept. 22 | 9:30-10:30 a.m.

https://bit.ly/RRHPTour-Sep22

Human Resources Members Conference

Mark your calendars for an HR Members Conference to be held on Thursday, Oct. 1. This conference will be in-person at MRES, as well as held virtually. This event is for MRES members and their employees who work with benefits, administration, compensation, recruiting, or other HR functions as part of their role.

Welcome Dinner/Social Wednesday, Sept. 30 5:45 PM

More info and to register: mrenergy.com under Events or go to qrco.de/MRES-HRCON. For quick access, scan the QR code

Reserve Your Room!

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 3821 W Avera Drive, Sioux Falls

MRES Group Rate: $110 per night

MRES Room Block: bit.ly/HRCon26RoomBlock

Conference Thursday, Oct. 1

8 AM – 3 PM

MRES Training Room

Questions, call 605-338-4042 or email info@mrenergy.com

Registration is due by Sept. 15.

In a recent episode of the Public Power Now podcast, Eric Moerman, a city council member for the MRES member community of Sioux Center, Iowa, and incoming chair of American Public Power Association’s (APPA) Policy Makers Council (PMC), discusses the council’s role and how its members advocate for APPA’s legislative and regulatory priorities. Moerman also shares insights into the PMC’s work in Washington, D.C., where members engage directly with policymakers on issues important to public power. The PMC’s annual fly-in meeting was held July 14-15, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

Listen: publicpower.org/public-power-now

SEPT. 16-17, 2026

MRES Training Room

3724 W Avera Dr • Sioux Falls, SD

The Municipal Power Learning Academy (MPLA) is a dynamic two-day educational seminar designed to introduce you to the essentials of public power, the electric utility industry, MRES programs and services, and your utility’s partnership with MRES. It’s the perfect opportunity to build valuable relationships with other members and MRES staff.

Who Should Attend?

The MPLA is an ideal setting for new or recently promoted staff — especially people in leadership roles — as well as local policymakers, such as city council or utility board members.

Registration

Register online by Aug. 25. You will receive an email confirming your registration. The course fee is $99 per person, which includes all materials, an educational toolkit, snacks and meals.

Room Reservations

Please call the Homewood Suites (by Hilton) at 605-338-8585 or go online to our event registration page to reserve your studio queen room at the rate of $129 plus taxes. For more information and registration, go to mrenergy.com/events

Questions?

For more information, please call 605-338-4042 or email info@mrenergy.com

Vernell Roberts (at right), general manager of Detroit Lakes Public Utilities and chair of the MRES board of directors, received the Mark Crisson Leadership and Managerial Excellence Award from the American Public Power Association at its national conference June 30 in Boston, Massachusetts. The award recognizes public power leaders who steer their organizations to new levels of excellence, lead by example and inspire staff to do better. Pictured with Roberts is Matt Schull, MRES president & CEO.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 2026 MRES AREA MEETINGS

Mark your calendars for the 2026 MRES Area Meetings. Join fellow member communities and MRES staff for updates, discussion and networking opportunities.

Alexandria, Minnesota, Area Meeting Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026

North Dakota Area Meeting Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026

Orange City, Iowa, Area Meeting Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Area Meeting Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026

Additional details and registration information will be available soon.

We look forward to seeing you this fall.

SMART ENERGY SQUAD PREPARES FOR ANOTHER YEAR OF IMPACT

As schools begin planning for the 2026-2027 academic year, MRES is once again encouraging member utilities to participate in the Smart Energy Squad program, an interactive energy education initiative designed specifically for fifth-grade students.

“Teachers

and students have provided overwhelming feedback that the Smart Energy Squad program delivers exciting and valuable knowledge of energy efficiency and generation to the classroom.”

- Cohl Turnquist, city administrator for the City of Flandreau, South Dakota

The turnkey program teaches students about energy efficiency, electricity generation, renewable energy and responsible energy use through engaging classroom lessons, digital resources, take-home energy kits and hands-on activities. The program also provides teachers with readyto-use curriculum materials that align with educational standards and require minimal classroom preparation.

For communities that have participated, the benefits extend beyond the classroom.

“As a father and utility general manager in Willmar (Minnesota), it’s incredibly rewarding to see the impact this fifth-grade energy curriculum has on families in our community,” said Jeron Smith of Willmar Municipal Utilities.

“What stands out most is how well the lessons stick. Students retain practical knowledge, like remembering to shut off lights to conserve energy, and they apply it in their daily routines. It’s a meaningful way to spark curiosity, build lifelong habits and connect students to the role energy plays in their everyday lives,” Smith added.

Participating utilities also find the program strengthens relationships with local schools and communities. Flandreau has offered the program for several years and continues to see strong engagement from students and educators.

“Teachers and students have provided overwhelming feedback that the Smart Energy Squad program delivers exciting and valuable knowledge of energy efficiency and generation to the classroom,” said Cohl Turnquist, city administrator for the City of Flandreau (South Dakota).

MRES covers half of the program costs with each member utility covering the other half. With that, students and teachers receive all materials at no cost, including workbooks, online resources, assessments and take-home energy efficiency kits containing LED bulbs, LED night lights and a digital thermometer.

With another school year on the horizon, MRES member utilities have an opportunity to educate future energy consumers. If interested, reach out to info@mrenergy.com and request Smart Energy Squad details or visit smartenergysquad.com

“Investments in our youth are investments in our future. Providing fifth graders an opportunity to learn about responsible power generation and energy use will pay dividends while also helping parents, teachers and students better understand the work their local utility does to serve the community,” Turnquist said.

“What stands out the most is how well the lessons stick. Students retain practical knowledge, like remembering to shut off lights to conserve energy, and they apply it in their daily routines. It’s a meaningful way to spark curiosity, build lifelong habits and connect students to the role energy plays in their everyday lives.”

- Jeron Smith, general manager of Willmar Municipal Utilities

Sioux Falls, SD 57109-8920