Entries by KMEA

April 18th, Lineworker Appreciation Day

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National Lineworker Appreciation Day, observed on April 18 every year, honors the efforts of both women and men who work diligently to keep our lights on. These dedicated lineworkers labor around the clock to ensure that electricity flows through our communities, even in the most challenging conditions.
Let’s take a moment to express our gratitude to these brave individuals who keep our cities illuminated!

Meet Paul Lampe, Newest Addition to KMEA Team

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Paul Lampe joined the KMEA’s team on March 18th. Paul brings a wealth of experience to our organization with 24+ years with the City of Independence – MO, Power & Light Department, in the Engineering and System Operations areas.   Prior to his employment with the City of Independence Paul was employed 7+ by Burns & McDonnell, duties included substation design, transmission and distribution analysis.

City of Russell Seeks Full-Time Police Officer

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The City of Russell is seeking professional and community-oriented individuals for a full-time Police Officer position. The City of Russell is situated at the crossroads of Interstate 70 and US Highway 281. As a rural city, it is our vision to serve as the County’s regional center. We are a community that is dedicated to family, friends, and neighbors, where generations care for each other. We are One Russell, building a self-reliant future. We are home.

The City of Russell offers a very progressive benefit package. Basic benefits include vacation, sick leave, family health insurance, family dental and vision plans, and KPERS retirement program, with optional benefits packages available as well. Applicants must be 21 years of age, with a high school diploma or GED, valid driver’s license, no felony or domestic violence convictions, drug or alcohol related convictions or diversions, must pass a POST test, psychological exam / medical and drug screening and background investigation. Applicants must also establish residency in the City of Russell 6 months from the hire date.

Salary will be dependent on qualifications. Applications and a full job description can be obtained at www.russellcity.org or at the City of Russell, 133 W. 8th , Russell, KS 67665. Completed applications can be submitted in person, online, faxed to 785-483-4397 or emailed to alice@russellcity.org. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. Position open until filled. EEO/ADA

Meet Brooke Kistler, KMEA’s new Senior Accountant

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We are excited to introduce our newest team member, Brooke Kistler, she is the new Senior Accountant. She joined the KMEA’s team on February 26th. Brooke brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our organization, and we’re excited to have her on board.

Brooke was born and raised in Olathe, Kansas. She attended Olathe North High School.
Brooke’s educational journey led her to pursue an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting from Metropolitan Community College (MCC). Prior to joining KMEA, Brooke served as a controller at DDIR, a commercial real estate company

KMEA Members and Staff Attended the APPA Legislative Rally

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Recently, representatives of many municipal owned electric utilities including KMEA members and staff attended the APPA Legislative Rally held in Washington D.C. The goal of this event is to bring awareness to the congressional delegation regarding challenges that face community owned utilities.  Along with opportunities to meet with representatives of congress members also had the ability to learn from the many educational sessions that APPA presented during the rally.

Meet Our New System Operators: Brennan Caume and Noah Cunningham

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We are excited to introduce the latest additions to KMEA’s system operations team: Brennan Caume and Noah Cunningham.
Brennan Caume, born and raised in Blue Springs, Missouri (just outside Kansas City, Missouri), brings a unique blend of skills to our team. After graduating from Blue Springs High School, Brennan pursued studies at Missouri State University. Initially focused on cell and molecular biology, he later shifted gears to business and construction management.

Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day: March 18th

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The KMGA proudly observes National Natural Gas Utility Workers’ Day on March 18, 2024. This marks the nineth consecutive year of official nationwide celebration in honor of the dedicated individuals who power our communities through natural gas utilities.

On this special day, we recognize the tireless efforts of the employees who safeguard and maintain one of our most valuable resources—the natural gas infrastructure. Their commitment to safety is paramount, especially in light of historical events like the New London, Texas school explosion in 1937. That tragic incident prompted widespread odorization of natural gas and underscored the need for stringent safety measures.

KCC receives federal grant to help cities and counties make the switch to more efficient lighting

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has been awarded a $1.9 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant from the Department of Energy (DOE) to help local governments replace traffic signals and/or street lighting with energy efficient lighting technology.

The agency’s grant application stated that “many publicly owned facilities in Kansas communities are aging and inefficient, incurring high costs for energy and maintenance. Replacement of street lights and traffic signals with more energy efficient lighting can significantly cut energy use and maintenance costs while improving light quality and output.” 

Colby Continues to Add New Generation

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The City of Colby recently added a second Cat C175 diesel generator at the city’s power plant, as it continues to transition from its legacy generating equipment. The two Cat gensets can provide up to 6 MW of power, combined, and are housed in enclosures positioned next to the substation at the power plant.

Click HERE to read more…