TMEPA Annual Awards Ceremony
The TMEPA 49th Annual Meeting of the Members was July 13-15 in Pigeon Forge, TN. It was an outstanding meeting with dynamic speakers, events and ceremonies. The annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday saw three municipal systems and two remarkable individuals receive awards for their service to their municipalities, to Public Power and TMEPA.
Three TMEPA Member Systems received the Community Service Award. These prestigious awards are given in three groups and based on the number of meters. The criteria used to choose the winners from the nominees includes achievement or sustained performance showing the commitment of the member and its employees to enhancing the quality of life in its community, both as an organization and employee involvement. The system also must show a history of enhancing the prestige of Public Power, involvement with TMEPA and outstanding and consistent customer service, quality of service and system improvement. All municipal electric systems show these traits on a daily basis. All are truly deserving. Kendall Bear, President presented all the awards. The winners of the 2015 Community Service Awards are:
1. Small System - Winchester Utilities
Roger Caldwell, General Manager received the award on behalf of Winchester Utilities.
2. Mid Size System - Tullahoma Utilities Board
Brian Skelton, General Manager received the award on behalf of Tullahoma Utilities Board.
3. Large System - Jackson Energy Authority
Jim Ferrell, President received the award on behalf of Jackson Energy Authority.
The Power of Excellence Award is given to a senior staff employee, general counsel, lobbyist, community leader or system board member who has demonstrated outstanding service to their local utility, TMEPA and Public Power. This is the highest award an individual, other than a system manager, can win. The winner of the 2015 Power of Excellence award was Philip Lim, Murfreesboro Electric Department.
The Outstanding Service Award is the highest award a system manager can receive from TMEPA. The criteria are strict and includes longevity of service in a Senior Staff/General Manger position. The nominee must have demonstrated exceptional leadership and contributions to Public Power in general and to TMEPA, being active in TMEPA programs and activities during their years of service. The winner of the 2015 Outstanding Service Award is Jody Wigington of Morristown Utilities.