In late June, Cuivre River Electric Cooperative, a CFC 100 percent borrower based in Troy, Missouri, broke ground on a new headquarters building that will deliver benefits to both members and employees. The project, located on the same site as the current 1962-era main office, was financed by CFC.
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“We wanted a modern facility that our consumers and staff can be proud of,” remarks Doug Tracy, Cuivre River Electric Cooperative general manager and CEO. “That said, because we’re good stewards of our members’ money, we’re also being conservative with the design and materials.
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”Serving more than 65,000 consumers-members in an area northwest of St. Louis, Cuivre River Electric—Missouri’s largest and fastest-growing distribution cooperative—decided to move ahead with a new headquarters following an analysis of the existing complex, which was previously renovated in 1986 and 2000.
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“The evaluation examined things such as safety, space for offices, material storage and parking, life of the electric, water and HVAC systems and consideration of costs to repair chronic issues related to an aging structure,” Tracy comments. “It also looked at functionality today as well as what would be needed in coming years. After careful study, the board of directors decided that new construction made the most sense.”
The 64,900-square-foot headquarters encompasses a two-story, 33,950-square-foot office building; approximately 5,000 square feet of warehouse space; 13,860 square feet for vehicle storage; and an approximately 12,000-square-foot covered storage and vehicle maintenance shed. “The warehouse area we use now is also being updated and will continue to be part of the campus,” Tracy adds.
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The blueprint features an expanded hardened dispatch center, plenty of glass to take advantage of natural light, a reconfigured member parking lot and drive-thru lane and a spacious community room for members’ use. “A secured parking lot and lobby, additional employee meeting space and a floor plan that encourages collaboration among departments are some of the improvements being implemented,” Tracy says. “We feel these changes will enhance our members’ experience and allow us to continue providing the high level of service they expect, both today and tomorrow. On top of that, the changes will also help with attracting and retaining the talent necessary to effectively run our co-op in coming years.”
He concludes: “Member response has been positive. Of course, many consumers want to know if the work will mean an increase in rates, or if they will no longer receive capital credits. We explain that just like any co-op asset, such as electric poles or transformers, the new facility is a long-lasting investment. It’s important for our members to know that this facility will not impact their rates or the way we return capital credits. We’re also keeping members informed on progress through our website and other communication channels.”
