Deaf Smith Electric distributes $5+ million in patronage checks

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Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative held its 88th Annual Membership Meeting on March 24 at the Hereford Bull Barn, where a large crowd gathered to receive over $5 million in capital credit checks and re-elect two incumbent directors to the cooperative's board.

Why it matters

As a member-owned electric cooperative, Deaf Smith Electric's annual meeting and patronage check distribution are important events that demonstrate the cooperative's commitment to its members and its continued growth and financial stability in the region.

The details

At the meeting, Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative President and General Manager Tim Burkhalter reported that the cooperative's total utility plant in service grew by about $4.5 million in 2025. Incumbent directors Melvin Betzen of Hereford and Jim Hoelting of Nazareth were also re-elected to Positions 1 and 2 on the DSEC board of directors.

• The 88th Annual Membership Meeting of Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative was held on March 24, 2026.
• In 2025, Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative's total utility plant in service grew by about $4.5 million.