Following the conclusion of Mr. Alvestad’s term as Board President, May of 2022 he was appointed Chair of the Facilities Committee. Under his leadership, a more comprehensive feasibility study was initiated with the involvement of the committee. In 2022, at the request of the full Board, a formal facilities assessment was conducted as part of the organization’s long-term planning efforts.
The study identified numerous concerns tied to the aging infrastructure—most notably a failing septic system—and highlighted the need to address long-term operational challenges. These concerns had been building over several years and prompted a broader evaluation of the headquarters' structural, mechanical, and functional limitations. Additional issues under review include outdated fuel tanks, seismic standards, roof conditions, and insufficient workspace, all of which impact operational safety, emergency response readiness, and service efficiency.
To paint a picture: Staff currently works around many limitations including utilizing warehouse bays for equipment maintenance and testing, converting closets into office space, storing technology towers in hallways, constantly repairing/updating failing areas of the building and using fleet garage space to store materials and supplies. All of which hinders opportunity for community interaction and involvement and eventually could impact our ability to maintain our technologically advanced system and power reliability efforts.