Closer Look

Geographical area served: Six Kentucky counties: 2,235 miles of line that covers all of Elliot County, and parts of Greenup, Carter, Lawrence, Lewis, and Rowan.

Annual product volume: $33 million in corporate assets; $2.5 million in capital additions and improvements.

Largest markets: One large commercial load, Cooks Family Food, a 2,800 kilowatt load with 18 million kilowatt-hour sales per year. Co-op's overall market is 18 percent small commercial and 72 percent residential.

What's noteworthy or unique about this co-op: The only female co-op manager in the state, and four of the co-op's seven board members have been on the board less than five years. An aggressive five-year right-of-way program, costing $740,000 per year, is almost completed. Since Fraley became manager, the co-op has had 16 people (out of 45 employees) change jobs or assume new duties. In the past four years, Grayson RECC has experienced a tornado, flooding and a 23-inch snowstorm. The co-op is nearing completion of an $8.6-million rebuilding effort. "We are a team of very member-oriented folks, dedicated to those we serve," says Fraley.

Grayson general manager Carol Hall Fraley (seated) is the only woman in Kentucky to head an electric distribution co-op. (Photos courtesy of East Kentucky Power Cooperative/John Ginter)

Philosophy that drives this co-op: "Our members are our No. 1 priority," Fraley says. "All of our employees are vital links in the chain that makes us strong in the improvement of our communities and counties. We want our members to have the very best and latest technologies available, and we want to help improve our schools, roads, jobs and overall quality of life."

Plans to keep viable in the 21st century: Says Fraley: "Listen to members. Be a vital part of the economic development in our area, not only where we serve. Be a strong supporter of education and youth. Be flexible, aggressive and anticipate and meet all challenges."