For more explanation see video: https://youtu.be/iYo5UUoUfTQ

In recognition of financial strain members may be experiencing as a result of COVID-19, the Access Energy Cooperative Board of Directors voted to return patronage dividends early to members this year.  All dividend checks were sent via U.S. Mail to members between mid-June and July 1.

After reviewing the operating revenues for 2019, your Board of Directors approved a dividend retirement of $1,182,565 for this year, which includes a pass-through amount of $348,237 from Northeast Missouri Electric Power Cooperative. The cooperative will be paying off 100% of any remaining dividends for 1998; as well as 41% of 1999, 54% of 2005, 7% of 2006, and 10% of 2019. Returning a portion of a deferred year(s) patronage and a portion of the current year’s patronage allocation allows both long-time and new cooperative members to receive benefits of cooperative membership.                   

Checks are distributed to members based on the amount of dividends in their account for the years being paid. Accounts with payment of less than $5 will continue to accumulate and will be paid in the year they reach or exceed $5. 

Normally, patronage dividend checks are distributed at the annual meeting of members in August, and checks not picked up are mailed out after the meeting.  This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and uncertainty surrounding the ability of large groups to gather in coming months, and for the protection of the health and safety of the members and employees, the board of directors approved to modify the format of the 2020 Annual Meeting of Members to eliminate the in-person portion of the meeting and conduct the election of directors by mail and electronic voting.  No other business will be conducted. We hope to see you all back at next year’s annual meeting of members on August 3, 2021.