State Pays more than $200M for Rent, Utilities
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced that more than 48,000 households have received assistance from the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance (WERA) program, which covers rent and utility payments for lower-income families affected by the pandemic. The total dollar amount spent now exceeds $200 million.
The program provides up to 18 months of financial assistance for current and overdue payments of rent and utilities, including water, electricity, gas, and internet.
More information about WERA is available by calling 1-833-900-9372, by emailing support@wera.help, or by visiting wiscap.org/wera.
State Senate, Assembly Candidates Participate in Energy Forum
Nine candidates running for western Wisconsin area Senate and Assembly seats gathered in Eau Claire last month to participate in the Candidates Energy Forum, sponsored by Eau Claire Energy Cooperative in partnership with local organizations. Jennifer Shilling, government relations manager at Dairyland Power Cooperative and former state senator, moderated the forum. She questioned the candidates on topics related to broadband expansion, electric reliability, and energy regulation including third-party financing.
Candidates in attendance are running to represent Senate Districts 23 and 31, and Assembly Districts 67, 68, and 93.
RESCO to Open New Warehouse in Stanley
Rural Electric Supply Cooperative (RESCO), a member-owned, not-for-profit electrical wholesaler, has officially announced plans to open a new warehouse and office facility in the town of Stanley. The new 40,000-square-foot facility will be situated on 15 acres and offers greater access to inventory for electric cooperatives at a time when supply-chain issues are creating ongoing challenges.
Construction of the new facility will begin in spring 2023, with completion anticipated in early 2024.
Pierce Pepin, St. Croix Host 2nd Annual “Powered by Electricity”
Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services and St. Croix Electric Cooperative teamed up with the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and Hope for Creation to host the second annual “Powered by Electricity,” which took place on Saturday, September 24, at UW–River Falls. The event aims to promote all things electric, and brought together local vendors, electric vehicle (EV) owners, and non-profit organizations. Various models of electric vehicles were on display.
Riverland GM Jerry Sorenson to Retire
Riverland Energy Cooperative General Manager and WECA Board Director Jerry Sorenson has announced he will retire at the end of 2022 after more than 30 years.
Sorenson started his career at Trempealeau Electric as the manager of administrative and member services in 1991 and was part of the merger of Trempealeau Electric and Buffalo Electric in 1999. He has been general manager since January 1, 2014.