Dear KEC members, 
I would like to address some recent misinformation circulating in the media and on social media platforms regarding the sale of Kootenai Electric Cooperative’s (KEC) former headquarters in Hayden to Kootenai County. It has come to our attention that certain individuals, more particularly political candidates without direct experience with our organization or the Hayden facility, have disseminated inaccurate information.
First, I want to assure you that when KEC sold the Hayden facility to Kootenai County in December 2020, the purchase and sales agreement underwent thorough review by legal professionals representing both parties, and all involved parties expressed satisfaction with the terms. KEC remained a tenant for three years while our new facility in Rathdrum was constructed. During this time, we maintained the Hayden facility as if it were our own and more than 100 employees worked there safely.
During our tenure at the Hayden facility, we ensured that all systems, including the HVAC system, were well-maintained and in good working order. KEC was unaware of any electrical issues that presented safety hazards while we occupied the facility. It’s outrageous to presume that an electric utility hyper-focused on safety would allow its employees to work around unsafe electrical problems in the facility. Allegations to the contrary are unfounded.
Regarding concerns about environmental safety, particularly regarding Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), KEC has consistently adhered to EPA regulations regarding the handling and disposal of equipment that may contain PCBs. Unsurprising to KEC, subsequent testing conducted by the County after the sale confirmed the absence of PCBs on the property.
The Hayden headquarters was originally constructed in the late 1970s. KEC operated out of it for 44 years. During that time, the facility was renovated several times. During each of these renovations, its contractors were aware that asbestos could be present and were therefore required to take special measures in the event asbestos was encountered during their activities. Not once did a contractor detect asbestos requiring such actions to be taken. Additionally, routine inspections of facilities, including the fuel storage tank, were conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations.
As an electric cooperative, our priority is to enrich the lives of our members and serve the long-term interests of our local community. Respectfully, we expect our good name and reputation to be spared the political mudslinging behind these allegations.
Please contact 208.765.1200 or kec@kec.com with any questions.
Doug Elliott
KEC General Manager/CEO