The 2026 Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative Annual Meeting
was held on Thursday, May 21st, at MLEC Headquarters in Aitkin. There were 205 registered members, with a total of
332 in attendance.
The election results had a total of 1,710 ballots cast, with 73 ballots cast at the meeting. For District 3, Harold Harms ran unopposed and was elected by acclamation.
For District 4, Stacy Bohn received 1,060 votes via mail and online and 46 at the meeting, for a total of 1,106. Dake Olson received 565 votes via mail and online, with 24 votes cast at the meeting, for a total of 589 votes.
The theme for the meeting was “Power Behind the Power.” Members heard comments from Board President Harold Harms, who talked about the various projects MLEC completed in 2025. Outgoing CEO, Sarah Cron, gave some final remarks and introduced incoming CEO, Anthony Lenz, who addressed the membership for the first time. Accounting and Finance Manager Mark Vosacek presented the financial report to the members.
Special guest speaker Jenny Glumack, MREA Director of Government Affairs, discussed the role cooperatives play at the capital. Doyle Jelsing, MLEC Community Trust Board, thanked members for their generous contributions to Operation Round Up, a program in which members’ bills are rounded up to the nearest dollar and the money raised is returned through grants to local organizations.
Various questions were answered in the Ask the Co-op section of the meeting. Everyone who attended had the opportunity to submit their questions and have them answered by MLEC staff and board members.
Many door prizes were given away during a drawing for attendees. Before the presentations and the official annual meeting, a pancake dinner was prepared and served by MLEC staff. We proudly featured local businesses, including Lemire’s Pure Maple Syrup, Double D’s Custom Processing, and Glen Meats. Milk for the event was donated by Kemps. We look forward to seeing you next year!
Welcome, Anthony Lenz!
The Mille Lacs Energy Cooperative is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony Lenz as the cooperative’s new Chief Executive Officer. Following an extensive search process that included a comprehensive
review of candidates and multiple rounds of interviews, the Board selected Lenz for his strong leadership background, industry expertise, and commitment to the cooperative principles that guide MLEC.
Anthony joins MLEC from the Minnesota Rural Electric Association and brings a wealth of experience that will help build upon the strong foundation and positive momentum established under the leadership of former CEO Sarah Cron. The Board is confident that Anthony’s vision and dedication will position MLEC for continued success while maintaining its focus on serving members and communities throughout the cooperative’s service area.