On the agenda: Richland Center packet — data center (Oct 14)

Official Public Notice
MEETING OF THE MUNICIPAL UTILITY COMMISSION
CITY OF RICHLAND CENTER, WISCONSIN
Agenda
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 5:30 PM
COUNCIL ROOM, MUNICIPAL BUILDING, 450 S. MAIN ST., RICHLAND CENTER, WI 53581 & VIRTUALLY
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN PERSON AND VIA TEAMS.
TEAMS: bit.ly/RCUtilityCommission
1.

Roll Call Roll Call for the meeting, determine whether a quorum is present; determine whether the meeting
has been properly noticed.

2.

Election of Officers – President, Vice President, Secretary, & Vice Secretary

3.

Approval of Minutes Motion to waive the reading of the minutes of the last meeting(s) in lieu of printed
copies and approve the same.

A.
4.

Treasurer's Report/Investment of Utility Funds

A.
5.

Minutes
Treasurer's Report

Monthly Bills

A.
B.
C.

Water
Sewer
Electric

6.

Safety

7.

Discussion and Possible action on Resolution 2026-3 Declaring Official Intent to Reimburse Expenditures
from proceeds of borrowing

A.
8.

Discussion and possible action on Donation to Richland County United Givers using WPPI Community Funds

A.
9.

WPPI Community Fund Request

MEUW Live Lines

A.
10.

Resolution #2026-3

Live Lines

Water Superintendent Report

A.

Reports

11.

WWTP Superintendent Report

12.

Electric Superintendent/Utility Manager Report

13.

Correspondence

A.

CORRESPONDENCE

14.

Public Comments: Members of the public are welcome to express their opinion on item(s) not appearing on
this agenda.

15.

Commissioners or audience request, etc.

16.

Adjourn

Posted this 9th day of October on or before 4:00 P.M.
Copy to the Richland Observer (official newspaper
Please Note: That upon reasonable notice, a minimum of 24 hours in advance, ,efforts will be made to accommodate the needs of disabled individuals through
appropriate aids and services. For additional information or to request this service, contact Ashley Oliphant, Mayor at 450 S Main St., Richland Center, WI
53581 or call 608-647-6428. City Utilities of Richland Center is an equal opportunity employer/provider.
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Item 1.

MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE RICHLAND CENTER
MUNICIPAL UTILITY COMMISSION
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 5:30p.m.,
Council Room, Municipal Building, 450 S Main St, Richland Center WI 53581
This Meeting was held in person and via Teams
Members present: Sawle, Coppernoll, Wallace, Collins, Walters, and Hoffman
Members absent: Jones
President Sawle called the meeting to order at 5:30p.m. The meeting had been
properly posted.
Motion by Hoffman, second by Wallace to approve the minutes of the last meeting and
the joint meeting with common Council. All voting aye upon roll call, motion carried.
The Treasurer’s report was received and filed.
Motion by Wallace, second by Walters to approve the Electric Bills for September
totaling $1,216,688.84. Also acknowledges the balance for August, thus totaling
$1,154,618.70. All voting aye upon roll call, motion carried.
Motion by Hoffman, second by Collins to approve the Water bills for September totaling
$61,470.18. Also acknowledges the balance for August, thus totaling $132,127.56. All
voting aye upon roll call, motion carried.
Motion by Collins, second by Coppernoll to approve the Sewer bills for September
totaling $116,164.63. Also acknowledges the balance for August, thus totaling
$223,805.59. All voting aye upon roll call, motion carried.
Glad reported for safety that Steve Ellers has been making crew visits. Todd Fischer
reported that the wastewater harness passed inspection, but they are 15 years old and
will need to be replaced.
Gald explained to the commission Sturgeon Bay’s Parallel Generation Net Energy
Billing is. Basically, now customers that have solar power and overproduce get what
the utility sells it for. If this gets added to City Utilities Richland Center Electric Tariff, the
customer will only get .04. A motion by Coppernoll, second by Collins to add Sturgeon
Bay’s Parallel Generation Net Energy Billing to Richland Center Electric Tariff. All voting
upon roll call, motion carried.
Gald stated that last year at this time we were looking at budgets and looking at the cost
of living raise for employees. He was at a WPPI meeting last week and a few utilities
were at 3.5%. Scott said he has also discussed with Ashley to inform her, so she is

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Item 1.

aware. Sawle made a motion, second by Coppernoll that the cost of living raise for
utility employees. All voting aye upon roll call, motion carried.
Water Superintendent Krueger reported that there were very few AMI meter changes
due to staff vacations and other outdoor work. They continue to work on Utility side lead
service replacements. H. James and Sons have been doing an excellent job on the
Hwy 14 project with getting the valve boxes to proper grade level. G-Pro should be
mobilizing on the Valley View project this week. We continue to flush the water main
under the Stori Field development. There was an EPA cyber security meeting on
August 18th. Steve had to answer questions and received a good report back that good
systems are in place. 2026 valve exercising is over halfway completed. The
Alzheimer’s Association has requested a retired fire hydrant for their benefit in October.
Hydro Corp has sent out letters to some of our commercial customers to schedule the
first cross-connection inspections. L & R Meter Testing will be here in the last week of
September to test our large commercial meters.
Wastewater Superintendent Fischer reported that his department completed collection
system maintenance on the targeted footage for the year. The wastewater has
continued to help electric and water with hydro-excavating. The Sextonville Pond does
need to get jetted. They plan to locate the lift station force mains with ¾” jet hose. As
soon as the fields are available, they will haul biosolids this fall. The Square Lift Station
rehab will begin in October, depending on material.
Electric Superintendent/Utility Manager Gald reported that he is working on proposing
the necessary easement for the Panorama Loop for building 2. The WPPI contract is
completed. Scott continues to work on RP3 application. Final engineering and
specifications are being completed for the new digger truck. The current build date is
scheduled for December 2026. The truck has been on order for approximately three
years. Ehlers is working on financing for approximately $2.7 million in debt for the
Olson Substation transformer replacement. The crew has been working on pole
changeouts. We are working with Alliant Energy to transfer wires along US 14 West
near the Legion. City Utilities and Alliant Energy share the poles in this area. There has
been a high volume of utility locate requests, requiring a significant amount of staff time
to keep up with the workload. James & Son struck a City Utilities pole on the four-lane.
The pole base needs to be replaced due to stripped mounting bolts. Repair costs will be
billed back to James & Son. Scott continues to work on the 2027 budgets. Grant and
Angie have been attending Caselle training. MEUW is continuing its long tradition of
hosting member gatherings to exchange ideas and learn from one another about
leading practices, operating challenges, and emerging issues affecting municipal
electric utilities. This year’s gatherings are being organized as roundtables in
communities throughout the state. The October 15 session will begin at 9:00 a.m. and

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Item 1.

conclude after lunch. Rotary Light setup will be held in conjunction with the SWTC
Power Distribution Class on October 28 and 29.
There was nothing for correspondence.
There were no public comments
Collins had nothing to say because everyone is doing such a wonderful job. Coppernoll
asked how the utilities were looking for new construction in the city. Water and sewer
are all set for Panorama, electric has some stuff to do yet. Stori Field is good to go on
the utility side. Sawl drove by Stori Filed and was impressed by the progress. He also
feels like everyone is doing a great job so keep it up.
Motion by Collins, second by Sawle to adjourn, all voting aye upon voice vote, motion
carried without dissent at 6:15p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Minutes submitted by:

Angie Edwards

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Item 7.

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Item 7.

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Item 7.

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Item 8.

Live Lines
Volume 75, Issue 10 | October 2026

Municipal utilities: Connected by a commitment to safety
As MEUW turns 98 this month, its
founding purpose remains as relevant as
ever: giving Wisconsin’s municipal utilities a
stronger voice and a way to work together
on issues that affect their communities.
That same collaborative spirit continues to
guide MEUW today. The association brings
a collective voice to legislative and
regulatory issues, but the value of working
together extends well beyond advocacy —
especially when it comes to safety.
Across Wisconsin’s municipal utility
communities, utility leaders, lineworkers,
and safety professionals come together to
share their experience, ideas, and
dedication to promoting safer work
practices.
MEUW’s Safety and Education (S&E)
Committee helps carry that commitment
forward, keeping safety at the forefront of
the association’s work. The 11-member
committee includes a diverse group of
municipal employees, representing different
geographic areas, job roles, and utility sizes.
The S&E Committee meets regularly and
looks for ways to promote safety initiatives,
share knowledge, and identify opportunities to strengthen work practices and foster
a culture of safety across the membership.
Chair Brian Dellemann,
Electric Utility Director
at Two Rivers Water and
Light, emphasized that
the committee builds
on a commitment established by MEUW members before them.
“Previous members recognized the
importance of making safety a priority
for everyone, and our current committee

is dedicated to carrying that mission forward
while looking for new ideas and
opportunities to improve,” he said.

effort, writing in a 1977 edition of Live
Lines, “This is a program that municipal
utilities have long needed.”

Mike Czuprynko, MEUW’s
Director of Safety Services
and Operations, added that
same spirit of collaboration
is central to all of the
association’s safety work.

Smith’s vision became a lasting part of
MEUW’s member services. Today, every
dues-paying member has access to the
JT&S program, which provides hands-on
training to help municipal utility crews
recognize electrical work hazards and
perform their jobs safely. Czuprynko says
about 325 lineworkers across Wisconsin
receive training through the program
each year.

“No utility has to figure out every safety
challenge on its own,” Czuprynko said. “By
bringing people together, we can turn those
shared experiences into safer practices across
the industry.”
That collaborative approach takes many forms.
The Job Training and Safety Program (JT&S)
brings hands-on electric safety instruction
directly to utility crews, while the Regional
Safety Management Program provides broader
safety expertise to utilities and other municipal
departments. Monthly safety calls give
members a forum to discuss current issues and
learn from one another. Mutual-aid responses
put those relationships into action when
communities need help, while annual safety
awards recognize utilities for their
commitment to safe work practices.

Training where it matters most

For MEUW members, the commitment to
safety includes a training program that has
been evolving for more than six decades.
MEUW held its first safety training workshop
in 1965, and the effort expanded in the 1970s
when the association partnered with
Wisconsin’s Vocational, Technical and Adult
Education system — now the Wisconsin
Technical College System — to develop a more
comprehensive program. Don Smith, MEUW’s
executive director at the time, championed the

The program’s instructors bring years of
experience in the field to that training.
Don Harnisch, who has worked in the
industry for more than four decades,
joined MEUW in 2022. Two newer emcontinued on page 2

Inside this issue
Race to be next Wisconsin
governor enters final stretch
Page 4
Stoughton Trailers are
"Made with Public Power"
Page 5
Operations Conference
and Expo set for January
Page 6
Permitting reform bill moves
one step closer to reality
Page 9
Energy use trends can be an
early predictor of
affordability challenges
Page 11

Monthly news for and about Wisconsin's public power providers and their partners | Published by MEUW | www.meuw.org

12

Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 2 of 12
continued from page 1

ployees — John Salscheider and Damian
Pasch — are bringing their own experience
and perspectives to the program.
Pasch has more than two decades of
lineworker experience, while Salscheider
has 17 years in the field, a military
background, and experience coaching
youth sports. Both understand teamwork
and are eager to pass their knowledge to the
next generation of lineworkers. Salscheider
said his experience helps him build trust,
teamwork and leadership while teaching
crews the technical skills needed to work
safely.
“What I enjoy most is the brotherhood of
it,” Salscheider said. “You have people from
all these different communities, but once
you’re out there together, you’re all working
toward the same goal. You’re looking out for
each other, and that’s what makes this job
and this program so special.”

A broader approach to safety

While JT&S focuses specifically on electric
utility work and hazards, MEUW’s
Regional Safety Management Program
extends that safety support across a broader
range of municipal operations. Forty-four
utilities currently participate. Six regional
safety managers (RSMs) — Steve Eller, Jeff
Helgestad, Brian Johnson, Jacob Lanier,
Patrick Murphy and Sean Wall — as well as
contract RSM Christy Rosenthal — cover
territories across the state and work directly
with the communities they serve.
For smaller municipalities that may not
have the resources to employ a full-time
safety professional, that relationship can be
especially valuable, Czuprynko said. RSMs
provide training, inspections, audits, and
other safety services for electric utilities as

Safety & Education Committee
Scott Adler, Stoughton
Adam Carroll, Shawano (Secretary)
Brian Dellemann, Two Rivers (Chair)
Scott Gald, Richland Center
Aaron Hau, Plymouth
Dave Pahl, Kaukauna (Vice Chair)
Ryan Pelowski, Trempealeau
Jordan Schmitz, Mount Horeb
Jimmy Smith, Rice Lake
Wayne Siverling, River Falls
Owen Vande Kolk, Waupun

well as public works, streets, and other
municipal departments. They also are
available to help municipalities address
safety questions or concerns as they arise.

Item 8.

For Helgestad, who has served MEUW for
17 years, those ongoing relationships are
among the most rewarding parts of the job.
“The work becomes personal. You almost
become part of the community,” Helgestad
said. “You get to know the people, their
operations, and the challenges they face.
You care about them, and they know they
can call me when they need help.”
That support goes beyond scheduled visits.
RSMs are available around the clock when
safety questions or concerns arise. MEUW
members also can draw on their expertise
as needed, and municipalities outside the
full program may engage an RSM for
specific services such as inspections, audits,
training sessions, or other safety-related
projects.
Dellemann, whose utility participates in
both JT&S and the Regional Safety
Management Program, said having those
resources available gives member utilities
an added level of support.
“Having access to experienced people,
training resources, and support when it is
needed most provides tremendous value to
member utilities and gives employees
confidence that they are not facing an
emergency alone,” he said.

When utilities need each other

The value of MEUW’s safety training and
the relationships it builds becomes
especially clear when disaster strikes. Since
April, Czuprynko and the JT&S team have
coordinated four mutual-aid responses,
bringing municipal utilities together to help
communities recover from significant
storm damage in Two Rivers, Eagle River,
Gresham, and Menasha.
In Two Rivers, that network was put to
work after a severe storm in May. The utility
initially requested four mutual-aid crews,
but as the extent of the damage became
clear, additional crews were called in to help
with the restoration.
“The cooperation and dedication of
everyone involved were critical to the
restoration effort,” Dellemann said. “With
the support of the mutual-aid crews and
MEUW staff, we were able to restore
electric service quickly and safely.” He said
the response was a reminder of the value of

During a recent job site training visit
from MEUW JT&S Instructor Damian
Pasch, crews from Evansville, Mount
Horeb, and Waunakee Utilities replaced an aerial air break switch with
a GOAB switch. The crews were reminded of the importance of proper
coverup on bells, ensuring all open
spots underneath are covered to
protect the worker. There was good
communication throughout the
task, even among
members who
were unfamiliar
with one another.
Exercises like this
are essential to
building trust and
preparing for
mutual aid events.

having other utilities ready to step in when
help is needed.
The network faced an even greater test on July
27. Czuprynko received an 8 a.m. call from
Eagle River Light & Water requesting mutual
aid after straight-line winds caused
widespread system damage.
Four hours later, Czuprynko received a call
from Menasha, where an EF3 tornado caused
extensive damage to the electric system and
left 82 homes condemned. As the work in
Eagle River wrapped up, some crews moved
directly to Menasha. Twenty-five utilities
ultimately sent 107 lineworkers to Menasha to
help restore power. Working long hours
under difficult conditions, the crews rebuilt
approximately 70 percent of Menasha’s
electric system and reset 290 poles in just 10
days.
“The damage in Menasha was some of the
worst our crews have seen, even compared
with what they’ve encountered responding to
hurricanes in places like Florida and the
Virgin Islands,” Czuprynko said. “It was a
devastating situation. But our crews stepped
up. They worked incredibly hard, they
worked well together, and they got the job
13
done.”
continued on page 3

Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 3 of 12

Members' News
Brian Reuter has been named the
Director of Public Works in Cuba City,
succeeding George Morrissey, who retired
in September. Brian formerly worked for
the Village of Hazel Green as Wastewater
Operator and Parks employee.
Dalton Hiley was recently promoted to
Assistant Utility Manager at Columbus
Utilities.
Lance Mugrew has been named Line Crew
Superintendent at Manitowoc Public Utilities.
Cindy Suzda has joined the City of New Lisbon as the new
Clerk/Treasurer.
Brandon Shipley has joined Rice Lake Utilities as Journeyman
Lineman; he previously worked for Barron Municipal Utility.
Send us your news! Tell MEUW about new hires, promotions,
retirements, honors, and awards, so those tidbits can be
shared in MEUW member communications. Simply send an
email to [email protected] to share your news.
MEUW's Tim Heinrich (on left)
presented Eagle River Light &
Water Utility Manager Mike
Sanborn with the utility's Safety
Achievement Award along with a
banner commemorating their
efforts to receive the award 25
times — a new honor presented
to workers at three member
utilities in 2026.

A Safety Commitment Beyond Advocacy

continued from page 2

Item 8.

As municipal utility crews arrived from across Wisconsin, Menasha
residents welcomed them with food, water, and words of thanks for
helping their community.
“What we saw in Menasha was the value of all the preparation that
happens before a storm ever hits,” Czuprynko said. “The training, the
relationships and the willingness of utilities to help one another all come
together when it matters most. It allows crews to work safely and get
communities back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

Sharing what works

MEUW’s everyday safety work reflects that willingness to learn from
one another, helping utilities prepare well before an emergency occurs.
The Safety and Education Committee plays an important role in keeping
that conversation going. Meeting virtually each month and in person at
least twice a year, committee members bring
perspectives from utilities across the state,
When asked to rank
the services offered
discuss emerging safety issues, and look for
by MEUW in order
ways to strengthen safety efforts throughout
of "greatest value,"
the membership.
members in cateEach month, MEUW also hosts a safety call
gories of every size
placed "safety” in
where members discuss current issues, share
the top spot. Other
experiences and learn from what others have
services — training,
tried. Czuprynko said some of the most
mutual aid, netuseful conversations happen when utilities
working, being an
talk about what has worked in the field.
information
resource, and
“Those success stories are important,”
advocacy — appear
Czuprynko said. “When a utility finds a
in
a different order
better way to do something or has success
among
the member
with a particular safety practice, sharing that
utilities in four
experience gives other utilities an
different size
opportunity to learn from it. We don’t all
categories.
have to reinvent the wheel.”
MEUW also recognizes that commitment through its annual Safety
Awards, which honor utilities for their work to strengthen safety
practices. This year, 43 utilities earned recognition at the gold, silver or
bronze level. Three utilities — Arcadia Electric Utility, Eagle River
Light & Water, and City Utilities of Richland Center — have earned
this achievement more than 25 times since the award was created.

Nearly a century after its founding, MEUW remains guided by the belief that municipal utilities are stronger together — a principle reflected in
its commitment to safety. “Our members benefit from training, experienced professionals and a network of utilities ready to share knowledge
and help when it matters most,” said Tim Heinrich, MEUW President and CEO. “All that collaboration serves one purpose: ensuring every
worker returns home safely to their family each night.”

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 4 of 12
Item 8.

Race to be next Wisconsin governor enters final stretch
MEUW Director of Legislative and Regulatory Relations Tyler Vorpagel provides perspective on the candidates'
positions on issues of importance to public power utilities

With just a few weeks remaining before the
November general election, control of the
United States Senate and House of Representatives, the Wisconsin State Senate and
Assembly, and the governor's office are all at
stake. In the September edition of Live Lines,
we highlighted the four state senate races that
will determine who will control the
Wisconsin State Senate. This month, we're
looking at what gubernatorial candidates
David Crowley (D) and Tom Tiffany (R)
are saying about energy and utility issues —
in their own words.
The campaign has focused on several issues,
including the cost of living, taxes, public
safety, data centers, energy policy, and utility
costs. For Wisconsin’s municipal electric
utilities, energy and data-center policies
could be particularly relevant because the
governor appoints members of the Public
Service Commission (PSC), which regulates
Wisconsin’s investor-owned utilities and
oversees utility rates and major projects.
Energy and utility policy have become an
increasingly prominent part of the campaign.
Crowley, a former state legislator and current
Milwaukee County Executive, has said his
priorities include making energy more
affordable while maintaining grid reliability.

His campaign has pointed to energy
efficiency, weatherization, clean-energy
technologies and ensuring that large energy
users, including data centers, pay the
additional costs associated with their
energy demand. (Wausau Pilot and Review)
Tiffany, who represents Wisconsin's 7th
Congresssional District since being elected
in 2020, has emphasized affordability and
reliability, calling for continued use of
existing baseload generation, development
of new nuclear generation, and changes to
how utility rates are regulated. His
campaign has also proposed lowering
utilities’ authorized return on equity and
establishing a cooling-off period for PSC
commissioners before they can work for
regulated utilities or transmission
companies. (WisPolitics)
Data centers have emerged as another
major point of discussion. Both candidates
support additional standards for the
industry and giving local communities a
role in deciding whether projects move
forward. Crowley has proposed requiring
data centers to cover infrastructure and
grid-upgrade costs, use new clean energy
and contribute to the state’s Focus on
Energy program. Tiffany has called for
ending state tax incentives for data centers,
requiring projects to pay the costs they

Friends of Public Power making
progress toward fundraising goal
Through Friends of Public Power, the political action committee and
conduit managed by MEUW, the association directs financial resources
to support in-state legislative candidates who have signaled their
support for public power and the electric-utility industry. Many of the
same politicians have shown a willingness to listen to and learn about
the issues that matter to MEUW members. As with other trade
associations, political giving and developing good relationships with
lawmakers is important to advocacy.
MEUW set a goal to raise $30,000 for the 2026 elections. Through Sept.
30, individual contributions totaling $24,675 have been received. The
funds are directed to both Republican and Democrat candidates in
races for the Wisconsin Assembly and State Senate.
To learn more about MEUW’s political giving, please contact Director
of Legislative and Regulatory Relations Tyler Vorpagel at (920) 265-7720
or visit www.meuw.org/fpp.

create and protecting farmland, water
resources and local communities.
(David Crowley for Wisconsin)

The candidates also differ on broader
energy-development questions. Tiffany has
called for maintaining existing coal
generation where needed, expanding
nuclear power and limiting the conversion
of farmland for large-scale energy and
data-center projects. Crowley has
emphasized clean energy, efficiency and
ensuring that large energy users do not
shift costs to residential customers.
(Daily Reporter)

The race remains closely contested in recent
polling. A Marquette Law School poll
conducted Sept. 16–23 found Crowley at
49% and Tiffany at 46% among likely voters,
with 5% undecided. The poll's margin of
error for likely voters was plus or minus 4.8
percentage points, so the results are within
the survey's margin of error. (Marquette

University Law School)

A televised debate between Crowley and
Tiffany is scheduled for Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. at
Marquette University. Full details about
each of the candidates can be found on their
campaign websites: Tom Tiffany.com and
CrowleyforWI.com. Please remember to
vote on or before Nov. 3.

Save the date for MEUW's
2027 Day at the Capitol
Mark your calendar and make plans to attend MEUW's
"Day at the Capitol” on Thursday, April 1, in Madison.
The new legislature is expected to have a number of
new faces, and this is our chance to educate them
about municipal electric utilities. There is no cost to
participate, and MEUW will coordinate the meetings.
After a brief informational session to review the issues
and talking points, small groups will make their way to
the Capitol to visit Senate and Assembly offices for
pre-arranged meetings with legislators and their staffs.
Full details will be communicated at a later date.
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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 5 of 12
Item 8.

Stoughton Trailers still growing after
six decades in its namesake hometown
A periodic feature highlighting products made in
one of Wisconsin's 81 public power communities
If you've spent much time behind the wheel, chances are you've spent some time
behind a Stoughton trailer. The company's familiar blue logo is a common sight on
highways across the country, from the Midwest to the mountain passes of Colorado
and the Pacific Coast. Its trailers carry the goods that keep businesses, communities,
and households moving every day.
But Stoughton Trailers is more than a familiar name on the road. The family-owned
company has grown alongside the community where it was founded, supported in
part by a long-standing partnership with Stoughton Utilities (SU). Since its founding
in 1961, Stoughton Trailers has grown into one of the nation's largest trailer
manufacturers.
Stoughton Trailers employs about 2,000 people and operates manufacturing facilities
in Wisconsin and Texas. Its family of businesses has also expanded over the years. Yet
for all that growth, the city of Stoughton remains home.
According to SU Education and Outreach Coordinator Brandi Yungen, Stoughton
Trailers is now the utility's largest electric customer. The company is also among the
largest electric customers served by both Brodhead Water & Light (second) and
Evansville Utilities (fourth).
That connection was highlighted in September 2025, when Stoughton Trailers opened
the doors to a new global corporate headquarters in its namesake community. The
53,000-square-foot facility can accommodate up to 200 employees and took nearly 15
months to complete, using approximately 300 tons of steel and 1,850 cubic yards of
concrete. When the building opened, company CEO Bob Wahlin described it as "an
investment in our people, community, and the future of Wisconsin manufacturing."
That investment in Stoughton extends beyond the headquarters itself. As part of the
development surrounding the 182-acre property, the company donated a significant
amount of land for what will become Stoughton Trailers Community Park. The
broader development includes new homes, businesses and roughly 60 acres of park
space, with plans for soccer fields, pickleball courts, a playground, walking trails, and
other recreational amenities.

From a local company to a national nanufacturer

Stoughton Trailers was founded in 1961 by Don and Carol Wahlin, who purchased
the assets of a small, bankrupt truck-body company and renamed it Stoughton Truck
Body. The company initially manufactured truck bodies before expanding into trailers
in the early 1960s. The first Stoughton trailer rolled off the assembly line in 1963, and
the company adopted the Stoughton Trailers name in 1973.
More than six decades later, the local business has grown into a major transportationequipment manufacturer. From its truck-body roots, Stoughton Trailers now produces
dry vans, refrigerated trailers, flatbeds, intermodal equipment, and other specialized
products. The company has three manufacturing facilities in southern Wisconsin and
in Waco, Texas. It is the largest employer in Stoughton, Evansville, and Brodhead, and
the largest manufacturer in Dane County.
Stoughton Trailers and the Wahlin Foundation, a foundation established by the
Wahlin family, have donated more than $5 million to local nonprofits, youth teams,
and community events. The company has supported the Stoughton Area School
District's Collins Field, Fab Lab, arts, music and athletic programs, and the Wahlin
Foundation also provides scholarships in Brodhead and Evansville. The company has
also partnered with UW-Whitewater to support scholarships and a supply-chain
faculty fellowship, helping build new connections to Wisconsin's future workforce.

A longstanding energy partnership

As SU's largest customer, Stoughton Trailers plays a
major role in the community's electric system. The
relationship, however, goes beyond the local utility
providing power.
For nearly a decade, SU and WPPI Energy have
worked with Stoughton Trailers to aid the
manufacturer in carefully managing its energy
needs. What began as conversations among WPPI,
the utility, and Stoughton Trailers' facility and
operations staff has grown into quarterly energy
team meetings that bring together representatives
from the organizations, along with Focus on Energy,
according to Darren Jacobson, energy services
manager for WPPI Energy.
“The meetings provide a meaningful opportunity to
identify energy-efficiency opportunities, discuss
utility initiatives and make sure Stoughton Trailers is
taking advantage of available resources and
incentives for energy savings projects,” Jacobson said.
The partnership has a history of helping Stoughton
Trailers identify opportunities to improve efficiency
and invest in its facilities. Earlier projects included
lighting, air-compressor and ventilation upgrades
that secured more than $316,000 in funding and
incentives.
Nearly a decade later, the conversation continues.
SU and Focus on Energy have supported additional
lighting upgrades and are exploring potential
compressed-air projects, while WPPI Energy has
provided data to support Stoughton Trailers’
sustainability efforts.
More than six decades after Don and Carol Wahlin
started the company in Stoughton, Stoughton
Trailers has grown into a national manufacturer. Yet
its roots remain firmly planted in the community
where it began — and its partnership with its
hometown utility remains an important part of what
keeps the company moving forward. For Stoughton
Trailers, that means building for the future while
16
staying connected to the energy that has powered its
growth from the beginning.

Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 6 of 12

Live
Lines
Official monthly publication of
Municipal Electric Utilities of
Wisconsin, Inc., the statewide
trade association representing
the interests of Wisconsin’s public
power providers since 1928.
This e-newsletter is distributed
to more than 1,200 utility
professionals and leaders
throughout Wisconsin and the
Midwest on the first Tuesday of
every month.
Live Lines has been published
continuously since 1961 and
provides useful information,
news on emerging utility issues
and legislation, updates on
events, training programs and
member services, as well as
engaging feature stories
spotlighting utilities,
communities and leaders.

MEUW Office

725 Lois Drive
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
(608) 837-2263
www.meuw.org

MEUW Office Staff
Tim Heinrich
President and CEO
Mike Czuprynko
Director of Safety Services
and Operations
Tyler Vorpagel
Director of Legislative
and Regulatory Relations
Sharon Wolf
Director of Communications
and Member Engagement
Karen Whitmer
Live Lines Contributor
Reader comments and
suggestions are welcome
Send by email to
[email protected]

Operations Conference and Expo set for January
Item 8.

Registration opens Oct. 15 for the annual gathering in Wisconsin Dells
Each year, municipal and electric cooperative employees come
together to network and learn about important topics impacting
utility operations. MEUW and the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative
Association (WECA) will hold EOCE27 at the Kalahari Resort in
Wisconsin Dells on Jan. 13–14. Employees at all levels are welcome
and encouraged to attend.
EOCE features presentations on industry-related topics of interest
and includes a large trade show where utility suppliers showcase
the latest products and services for utility operations. Exhibitor space
is expected to sellout again. The Expo is a highlight of the event.
The program will include strategic updates from the Public Service
Commission and Focus on Energy. It will also feature a panel discussion featuring large customers. General session presentations will
also focus on investing in distribution system resiliency, mutual aid,
critical cyber security considerations and recommendations, and
what changes in the state legislature mean for Wisconsin. And, as
always, there will be plenty of opportunities to network with other
public power and cooperative utility leaders and staff.
Day one will close with a timely keynote address from Certified
Professional Coach Dana Zurbuchen about how individuals' everyday actions shape teams, safety, and well-being.
The closing keynote address (on Thursday afternoon) will be
delivered by Don Beebe, who played in the National Football League
(NFL) for nine seasons. A wide receiver, he was a member of the
Buffalo Bills teams that lost four consecutive Super Bowls before he
made two more Super Bowl appearances with the Green Bay
Packers, including winning his first ring in 1997 in Super Bowl
XXXI. His personal story of perseverance and determination
highlights his struggles, successes, and the importance of family
values in achieving one's goals.
Three types of registration passes — Kilowatt, Megawatt, and
Gigawatt — are available for those who wish to attend only part of
the three-day event. Those most interested in the Expo (trade show),
for example, will want to purchase a Megawatt pass, which offers
access to the Wednesday Welcome Reception and Thursday’s
conference sessions, meals, and the Expo. MEUW members who
register as an “Early Bird” can get a Megawatt pass for $265. A pass
for the Expo only (after 12:30 p.m. ) is also available.
Full details about the conference, including the registration link, will
be available at www.meuw.org/eoce. There is a $30 discount for all
registrations received on or before Nov. 20.

Graduating apprentices to be honored as part of annual event
Each year, Wisconsin's municipal utilities and electric cooperatives gather to honor the
newest members of the trade and recognize graduating apprentice lineworkers and electric
meter technicians. An Apprentice Graduation Banquet will be held on Thursday, Jan. 14,
2027, at the Kalahari Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells, with a social reception from
6–6:30 p.m., followed by dinner and a program.
Sixty-seven graduates from both Chippewa Valley Technical College and Northeastern
Wisconsin Technical College will be recognized during the program. A complete list of
those who are graduating is available here. Make plans to attend and celebrate their
accomplishments. Online registration for the Banquet will open on Oct. 15.

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 7 of 12

Safety
Matters
Complacency impacts workplaces and
employees in different ways, often appearing as a false sense of security that can result
in decreased awareness of your environment. Even if you believe you are unaffected, it can be as subtle as lowering your
guard, losing concentration, or neglecting
to observe hazards regularly. Depending on
your position, this can pose significant risks
to both you and your co-workers. While
no one intentionally becomes complacent,
being conscious of the risk and staying
actively engaged in your work can help.
Employees who are content and attentive
usually focus on the present, immersing
themselves in their tasks and surroundings.
On the other hand, complacent workers
might act on autopilot, simply going
through the motions without engaging in
critical thinking. This mindset can increase
the risk of incidents and injuries, regardless of age or experience. Whether it arises
from familiar or routine tasks, together, we
can work toward preventing the hazards
associated with complacency.
No one understands you better than
yourself but becoming too comfortable can

Be mindful: Routine can turn risky

Item 8.

MEUW Regional Safety Manager Sean Wall offers tips to avoid complacency on the job
blind you to potential risks. To ensure your
safety, it's crucial to recognize signs of
complacency within yourself:
• Feeling dissatisfied with your work or
lacking motivation
• Skipping steps in work processes
• Experiencing frequent near-misses or
incidents
Because identifying these signs in yourself
can be challenging, it's also important to be
able to recognize them in your co-workers.
Learning to detect these signs in others can
help you notice them in yourself more
easily. Watch out for:
• Changes in attitude;
• A significant increase or decrease in
communication; or
• Being consistently late.
Complacency can arise not only from
losing focus on tasks but also from set
expectations. These expectations can lead to
overlooking signs of complacency in
co-workers who may not consistently meet
performance standards.
If complacency is a rut that many
employees find themselves in, then
boosting employee engagement can be the
solution. To enhance focus and prioritize

safety, consider these steps:
• Set yourself up for success by consciously
concentrating on your tasks.
Acknowledge and eliminate distractions
as they arise.
• Seek ways to enhance your routine or
task approach.
• Consider altering parts of your daily
schedule to maintain focus and avoid
falling into autopilot mode.
Besides engaging yourself, strive to encourage your colleagues to also work safely:
• Integrate safety discussions and
inspections into your routine with
co-workers.
• Encourage discussing task steps with
co-workers, regardless of your experience
working together.
• Help with tasks and highlight any
potential risks to prevent oversights.
Be vigilant about signs of complacency in
yourself and speak up if you notice them
in your co-workers. Everyone is vulnerable
to these risks, and sometimes you just need
an outside set of eyes to bring them to
your attention.

Check out tips to safely enjoy the
fall season — page 12

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 8 of 12

News Monitor

As seen on

Item 8.

There’s still time to join a Member Roundtable
MEUW has once again been hosting Member Roundtables
around the state this fall, giving local utility leaders a chance to
connect and network over topics of interest to public power. Make
plans for you and your Commissioners or Board Members to
attend one of the remaining luncheons planned to receive updates
and participate in roundtable discussions. Locations and dates are:
• Thursday, Oct. 8 — Clintonville
• Thursday, Oct. 15 — Richland Center
While there is no cost, advance registration is required. Each
session will begin at 9 a.m. and wrap up by 1 p.m. Registration is
available here.

Planning & Risk Management offered Oct. 7
As part of MEUW'sprofessional development programming, we're
launching a new one-day course to focus on utility planning and
risk management. Taught by experienced engineer, Dave Krause,
this training will explain the basics of strategic and operational
planning, why planning matters, and how well-thought-out plans
and careful assessments of risks can contribute to long-term
success.The class will be held in Mauston on Oct. 7. Registration
and details about the class and instructor can be found here.

Develop your coaching skills with this training
Invest in your own professional development through this Dec. 2
Leading Through Coaching course. As part of MEUW's
professional development programming, we're offering a one-day
leadership development course that focuses on knowing how and
when to coach — highlighting the skills and emotional intelligence
needed to coach others effectively. Good coaches are seen as role
models and, therefore, need to understand those things that cause
them to have frustration, negative self-talk, and, in turn, prevent
them from channeling their emotions productively. Knowing
yourself will help you to become a more effective leader and coach,
enhancing your ability to effectively develop others. Registration
and details about what you'll learn are available here.

Every October, Wisconsin’s communityowned electric utilities join the nationwide
celebration of Public Power Week to
highlight what differentiates public power
from other types of utilities — namely,
being local, being not-for-profit, and
offering reliable electric service that’s
second- to-none. Many of the 81 communities that own and operate their electric
utility host events, offer giveaways, and
engage with their customers to celebrate
what makes public power special.

Are you following MEUW on social media?
Click here for access to our sites.

It's MEUW's birthday month,
and we're celebrating you!
Trade associations like MEUW benefit from
having devoted members who invest their
time, expertise, and passion to advance the
profession and strengthen their community.
As MEUW celebrates its 98th birthday
this month, we're celebrating with Member
Appreciation Days, a special opportunity to
recognize and celebrate the individuals and
organizations that help our association thrive.
Membership is much more than a name on a roster. Our members
volunteer on committees, attend events, share knowledge with peers,
advocate for important issues, and contribute to our collective
success. Involvement helps shape programs, drive innovation, and
ensure that MEUW remains a trusted resource for years to come.
MEUW Member Appreciation Days is our way of saying "thank
you." In today's fast-paced, ever-changing environment, the
relationships built through association membership are more
valuable than ever. We want to use MEUW's birthday as a chance
to celebrate the collective accomplishments of our members and
the association. Your commitment, ideas, and engagement are the
foundation of everything we do. Watch your email for a chance
to win prizes and be part of the festivities. We look forward to
celebrating with you during Member Appreciation Days
beginning Oct. 19.

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 9 of 12

Long-awaited permitting reform bill
moves one step closer to reality

Item 8.

a good reminder that protecting our
systems starts with everyday habits.

In an industry flush with acronyms of all kinds, the energy sector is preparing for a new one:
BAAJA. On Sept. 30, the Environment and Public Works and Energy and Natural Resources
Committees of the U.S. Senate reached agreement on the text of the Bipartisan American
Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026. BAAJA is a major effort to overhaul federal permitting for
energy and infrastructure projects. The package combines broad permitting and
environmental review reforms with significant changes impacting electric transmission,
large-load growth and energy project development.

For municipal utilities, a cyber incident can
disrupt more than computers. It can affect
communications, customer information,
business operations and even critical
infrastructure. Every employee plays a role in
keeping those systems secure.

The 417-page bill addresses three major themes. First, it would make it easier to permit and
build energy infrastructure, such as natural gas pipelines and geothermal, hydropower, and
wind projects. Second, it would reform how electric transmission is planned and how its costs
are allocated. Third, it would establish ways to ensure AI data centers, other computational
loads and cryptocurrency mining operations get access to the grid and pay the costs they incur,
while protecting other ratepayers.

A few simple reminders:
• Think before you click. Be cautious with
unexpected emails, links, and attachments.
• Use strong, unique passwords and
multi-factor authentication when available.
• Keep devices and software updated and
don’t ignore security alerts.
• Protect sensitive information. Don’t share
passwords or confidential information
unless you know who you’re dealing with.
• Be alert in the field. Don’t plug unknown
USB drives or devices into utility computers,
control systems or other equipment.
• Speak up. If something looks suspicious —
whether it’s an email, login attempt, device
or activity on a utility system — report it.

More specifically, the legislation would streamline federal environmental reviews and establish
clearer deadlines for projects seeking federal permits and approvals. It would also provide
new protections for projects that have already received federal approvals and limits the
circumstances in which agencies could later revoke, suspend or otherwise interfere with those
approvals. These protections could be particularly consequential for large, capital-intensive
energy projects, including offshore wind and other generation, transmission, pipeline and
energy infrastructure
projects by allowing projects with valid federal approvals to continue
moving forward while certain legal or administrative issues are resolved.

October is Cybersecurity
Awareness Month —

Cybersecurity isn’t just an I.T. responsibility.
It’s everyone’s responsibility. Take a moment
this month to think about how your everyday
actions can help protect your utility, your
coworkers, and the community you serve.

Among the most consequential provisions are those addressing large-load growth and electric
transmission. The package would establish new cost-responsibility rules for data centers and
other computational loads, while giving states substantial flexibility over how those customers
receive and pay for electric service. It would also make significant changes to transmission
siting; local, regional and interregional planning; cost allocation; generator interconnection;
and deployment of advanced grid technologies.
The agreement is a major step forward following months of negotiations, but the legislation is
not final. A Senate floor vote is not expected until after Congress returns from its pre-election
recess on Nov. 9, 2026, and any Senate-passed bill would still need to clear the House before
going to the president. Permitting reform has been a legislative priority for the American
Public Power Association (APPA) and others in the energy sector for many years. While the
text of the comprehensive package could change as it moves through Congress, and many
provisions would require subsequent rulemakings or state regulatory action before taking full
effect, BAAJA is moving forward, and real permitting reform is one step closer to reality.

American Public Power Association

2027 Legislative Rally
March 1-3

Join us in Washington, D.C. for this important annual event that brings
together public power executives, policymakers, and staff to take public
power’s message to Capitol Hill. Connect with public power peers and
advocate collectively for the industry at the federal level. APPA will give
you the tools you need to communicate public power’s value and help
you influence federal policymakers whose decisions will impact your
community’s future. Learn more: publicpower.org/rally

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 10 of 12

Industry
News

EPA repeals power plant
emissions standards

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) has repealed Biden-era regulations
limiting greenhouse gas emissions from
coal- and natural gas-fired power plants. The
EPA said the change is intended to reduce
regulatory costs and lower electricity prices,
while environmental groups argue that the
rollback could increase public health risks.
The repeal returns power plant emissions
requirements to a 2015 standard established
under the Obama administration. The EPA
is also considering a broader proposal that
would eliminate existing federal greenhouse
gas standards for power plants. The agency
estimates the repeal could save $310 billion
over approximately 20 years.
Environmental groups have indicated they
will challenge the repeal in court. The
changes described apply to greenhouse gas
emissions and do not affect existing
requirements for other air pollutants.

42 new EV charging stations
coming to Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Department of
Transportation (WisDOT) has awarded
grants to 42 communities across Wisconsin
to support the development of new
fast-charging stations for electric vehicles.
The projects are funded through the
Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure
(WEVI) Connecting Corridors Program,
with approximately $25 million in federal
NEVI funding supporting this latest round.

The new charging sites will be located along
U.S. and state highway corridors that were not
previously included in the program.
Locations include fuel retailers, hotels,
restaurants, and other businesses across the
state. Eleven public power communities are
receiving grants: Belmont, Boscobel, Eagle
River, Fennimore, Marshfield, Oconomowoc,
Reedsburg, Richland Center, River Falls,
Sturgeon Bay, and Wisconsin Rapids.
WisDOT has now awarded approximately
$62 million for 120 EV charging projects
statewide. The broader Alternative Fuel
Corridor network is considered fully built
out, with 25 charging stations currently
operational. Wisconsin has more than 43,200
registered EVs.
The grants are intended to expand access to
reliable fast charging while supporting local
businesses and communities.

APPA urges DOE to provide
clarity in transmission study

The American Public Power Association
(APPA), joined by the Large Public Power
Council (LPPC), filed comments on the
Department of Energy's (DOE) draft 2026
National Transmission Needs Study. Once
finalized, the study will help inform DOE's
designation of National Interest Electric
Transmission Corridors (NIETCs), as well
as the agency's coordination of federal
transmission financing and permitting
authorities.
Given the significant ways the study will be
used, APPA and LPPC asked DOE to clearly
define what the study does — and does not —
conclude. Specifically, they asked DOE to:
1. State plainly that the study identifies
transmission needs rather than solutions;
2. Explain what the study's economic and
reliability findings do not establish; and

Item 8.

3. Emphasize that identified needs
should be met at the lowest reasonable
cost to consumers.
The organizations also offered broader
recommendations for DOE to consider as
it exercises its transmission authorities,
including supporting
infrastructure-neutral permitting reform,
expanding opportunities for joint
transmission ownership and addressing
supply chain constraints.

North Carolina regulators
reject gas plant for Amazon
Data Center

North Carolina regulators have rejected
Duke Energy’s proposal to build a 250megawatt natural gas plant primarily to
serve a $10 billion Amazon data center
under construction near Charlotte. The
five-member North Carolina Utilities
Commission (NCUC) cited concerns
about how the project’s costs would be
allocated and whether Duke had
demonstrated the need for the facility.
The decision comes as utilities and
regulators face growing electricity
demand from large data centers. The
NCUC said Duke had not adequately
evaluated alternatives — including battery
storage — or demonstrated that the proposed plant would not create costs for all
customers if it ultimately proved unnecessary. Duke said it believed the project
was part of a least-cost approach to maining reliable service as demand grows.
The decision is not permanent, and Duke
can refile its application. Meanwhile,
Amazon has received permits to operate
temporary and backup diesel generators
while the data center connects to the
electric grid.

Innovative design part of proposed transmission line in southern Wisconsin
The Bell Center–Columbia–Sugar Creek–Illinois/Wisconsin State Line (BECI) Project is a proposed
$1.2 billion, 765-kilovolt (kV) high-voltage electric transmission line spanning approximately 190 miles
across southern Wisconsin.
One feature that could help reduce the project’s impact on communities and landowners is its innovative
“Guyed-Y” structure design (depicted in photo at right). Compared with traditional 765-kV transmission
structures, the Guyed-Y design is expected to reduce the required right-of-way width by at least 10 percent. A narrower corridor can help minimize impacts on property and the environment while still
providing the capacity needed for the high-voltage line. Typical BECI structures will be approximately
175 feet tall, with a right-of-way of about 180 feet and spans of approximately 1,200 feet between
structures. Exact dimensions will vary depending on location and site conditions.
The BECI Project is part of MISO’s regional transmission plan and is being developed by Midcontinent
Grid Solutions, a joint venture between Transource Energy and BHE Transmission.

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Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 11 of 12

HomeBoost helps utilities support customers
looking for residential energy savings

Item 8.

Customers often turn to their utility for
guidance on making their homes more
comfortable and using energy more
efficiently. FOCUS ON ENERGY® has a
new resource utilities can share to support
those conversations: the HomeBoost
Energy Assessment Kit, a do-it-yourself
option for identifying energy-saving
opportunities at home.
Utilities can recommend HomeBoost to
customers with questions about drafty
rooms, uneven temperatures or
energy-saving improvements to help them
better understand their home’s efficiency
and prioritize next steps.

How HomeBoost works

HomeBoost is best suited for single-family
homes and multifamily homes with up to
four units.
The kit is available for $20 after a $79 Focus
on Energy instant rebate off the original $99
retail price, with free shipping. Customers
should plan for approximately 90 minutes
to complete the assessment and return the
kit within 30 days to avoid a $200
late-return fee. Additional time may be
available by contacting HomeBoost to
request an extension.
Each rental kit contains a thermal camera, a
black light for identifying inefficient light
bulbs, and assessment supplies, including a
prepaid return envelope. The HomeBoost
app guides customers through gathering

information about their home and scanning
equipment and areas where energy may be
escaping.
Once customers complete the assessment,
they return the kit and receive a personalized
energy report. The report identifies
recommended improvements and includes
information about potential rebates.
Recommendations can range from smaller
do-it-yourself changes to projects that warrant
a conversation with a contractor.

Understanding assessment
requirements

HomeBoost can help customers discover
opportunities and prepare for a conversation
with a contractor. For customers exploring
Focus on Energy's insulation and air sealing
rebates or the federal IRA HOMES program, a
professional assessment is the next step.
HomeBoost's DIY assessment does not
replace the professional assessment required
for these rebates.
Focus on Energy's Find a Trade Ally and Find
an IRA Registered Contractor tools can help
customers identify experienced contractors in
their area. Contractors can discuss potential
improvements, available rebates and the
assessment needed to get started. For HOMES
projects, an IRA Registered Contractor can
guide customers through the assessment and
rebate process before work begins.
Qualifying low-income households may
receive up to $500 toward an eligible

professional
assessment
through HOMES.
Outside that offer,
Focus on Energy
does not currently
provide an
incentive for
professional
assessments.
Discussing assessment options and costs with a contractor
can help customers plan their next steps.

Taking the next step

HomeBoost and other Focus on Energy
tools complement energy efficiency
programs and rebates offered directly
through utilities. Together, these resources
help utilities support customers as they turn
questions about home efficiency into
specific actions.
Customers can learn more about
HomeBoost and order their rental kit here.
Customers who prefer to explore rebates
directly can use the Residential Rebate
Finder at focusonenergy.com/get-started.
Customers should confirm eligibility and
any rules for combining incentives before
making purchases.
MEUW provides Focus on Energy the
opportunity to regularly contribute content
to Live Lines because of the organizations’
shared support of municipal utilities.

Energy use trends can be an early predictor of affordability challenges
Energy affordability is becoming a growing concern for Wisconsin
households, and experts say better use of utility data could help
identify struggling customers before they reach a crisis point.
Speaking at the Customers First Coalition Power Breakfast event in
September, Carnegie Mellon University professor Dr. Destenie Nock
highlighted the importance of analyzing household energy-use
patterns to identify customers experiencing “energy deprivation.”
Financially strained households may reduce heating, air
conditioning, or appliance use to save money, and in some cases
resort to unsafe practices such as using ovens to heat homes.
Citizens Utility Board Executive Director Tom Content emphasized
that policymakers, regulators, and utilities should use data-driven
approaches to better understand affordability challenges. Existing

metrics such as service disconnections, late payment fees, and
participation in assistance programs provide valuable insights, but
experts say additional measures are needed to track energy-limiting
behaviors and identify households at risk.
Nock noted that utilities have access to significant amounts of data
that could help flag customers before financial hardships escalate.
Early intervention can prevent families from falling into crisis while
reducing bad debt and costly collection efforts for utilities.
Content said that data shows more working households are struggling
to keep up with energy bills, and the number of middle-income
customers facing financial pressure continues to grow. Leveraging
customer data more effectively could help utilities and policymakers22
develop proactive solutions to keep energy affordable and accessible.

Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin Live Lines | October 2026 | Page 12 of 12

Look Who's Hiring
Fall brings cooler weather, hunting season, football,
travel, and plenty of opportunities to get outdoors.
As you enjoy the season, keep safety in mind:
• Hunting safety: Treat every firearm as loaded. Keep
the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, keep your
finger outside the trigger guard and be absolutely
certain of your target and what is beyond it.
• Driving: Expect more traffic during fall activities and
holiday gatherings. Put your phone away, avoid
distractions and slow down for wet leaves, rain, fog,
and shorter daylight hours.
• Watch for wildlife: Deer are especially active in the
fall. Stay alert in wooded and rural areas, particularly
around dawn and dusk.
• Dress for changing weather: Temperatures can
change quickly. Wear layers and make sure you have
appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.
• Prevent slips and falls: Wet leaves, mud, frost, and
early ice can make walkways and work areas slippery.
Keep paths clear and watch your footing.
• Use ladders carefully: Fall is a popular time for
cleaning gutters and preparing homes for winter.
Make sure ladders are on stable, level ground and
maintain three points of contact.

Item 8.

MEUW is pleased to promote job openings with its member
utilities across Wisconsin. New positions are regularly added
to our website — check them out here or use your
smartphone to scan the QR code below.
Here are some current opportunities available:

New Holstein Utilities — Journeyman Lineman
City of New Lisbon:
Full-time Laborer/Equipment Operator
Journeyman Line Worker
Cedarburg Light & Water Utility — Journeyman or
Apprentice Lineworker

When your utility is hiring, be
sure to email the job posting to
offi[email protected].

Follow
MEUWon

• Stay safe around fire: Keep leaves and other
combustible materials away from fire pits, grills, and
outdoor heaters. Never leave a fire unattended.
• Be visible: As daylight hours decrease, wear reflective
or high-visibility clothing when walking, biking, or
working near roads.
• Slow down and pay attention: Fall activities can be
busy and distracting. Take a moment to assess your
surroundings and don't let a routine task become an
unexpected accident.
Enjoy everything fall has to offer — but don't let a
moment of distraction ruin a perfectly good day.

MEUW is proudly
affiliated with

An archive of past issues
of Live Lines is available at
www.issuu.com/meuw
Companies interested in
advertising in Live Lines
should call (608) 837-2263
© Copyright 2026 by Municipal
Electric Utilities of Wisconsin, Inc.

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Item 10.

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