BLUEBONNET’S DIRECTORS APPROVE $4.2 MILLION IN CAPITAL CREDITS, ASSISTANCE FOR MEMBERS

  

Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative members will soon receive credits on their electric bills for their share of $4.2 million, while nonprofit organizations that help members pay their bills will also receive assistance.

At its meeting this month, the cooperative’s Board of Directors unanimously approved returning $4.2 million in capital credit—an increase of $500,000 from last year’s amount—along with assistance for members impacted by the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Members will begin receiving credits next month, and capital credits will be returned to all of the member-owners of the cooperative.

Bluebonnet’s directors also approved assistance to nonprofit organizations that are part of Bluebonnet’s energy assistance program.  More than 24 nonprofits provide financial assistance for Bluebonnet’s members to help pay their electric bills.  For information about Bluebonnet’s energy assistance program and a list of nonprofit organizations that provide assistance, go online to www.bluebonnetelectric.coop/assistance.

The assistance provided by Bluebonnet’s Board of Directors is part of the co-op’s overall efforts to help its members and communities during the COVID-19 crisis.  Bluebonnet is also helping families and businesses by temporarily suspending disconnections for nonpayment, waiving late fees, deferring payment due dates, and making payment arrangements for members in need.  The cooperative has also increased support to the 15 service-area food banks that are providing meals to families who have lost jobs or income due to the COVID-19 shutdown.

Bluebonnet General Manager Matt Bentke said the cooperative has also planned a multimillion-dollar package this year to help its members and communities.  He added that members recently had their rates reduced in December, which should save members $4.8 million this year.  He said the cooperative will “continue to seek opportunities to support our communities and help our members in need”.

Bluebonnet members who need assistance with their electric bill or need to request a payment arrangement can call Bluebonnet’s member services at 800-842-7708, or visit a drive-through lane at one of the cooperative’s member service centers in Brenham, Giddings, Bastrop, Lockhart or Manor.