I loathe admitting it, but I have succumbed to the phenomenon of reality television. I like the home improvement shows that are driving up Lowe's and Home Depot stock and sending thousands of men, women, boys, and girls to their local hardware stores to conquer their "weekend warrior" projects.

There is just something about change that intrigues us. Change, though, can bring a host of different reactions and emotions. Take again those home improvement shows for example. I love it when the big reveal happens, and the trusting homeowner who was filled with visions of something sleek, new and beautiful is greeted, instead, by the most hideous, amorphous, slapped-together-montage of interior decorating gone wrong imaginable.

In many instances, though, the change does turn out to be a success. The room being remodeled may still serve its basic function, but there is generally something different about it such as more storage space, a new piece of furniture, or something else that adds value. In my opinion, it is that search for extra value that can motivate us to change.

The same can be said about the Illinois Rural Water Association (IRWA). We are working on "association improvement" projects designed to add value and make a difference for members of the association. Areas of improvement include image building/enhancement, communication, legislative awareness, and leadership training.

Many people know about IRWA's reputation for having knowledgeable and professional staff, excellent training programs, and superb technical assistance. The hoard knows, however, that there is still so much more that the association can, and should, be doing.

Since February of this year, a major emphasis has been added on the IRWA's presence in the Illinois General Assembly. With issues such as NPDES permit fees, water quantity protection, professional regulation and licensing acts, just to name a few, there are many things going on in Springfield that impact rural water and wastewater system operations. The IRWA also wants to play a role in building legislative alliances with groups like the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives. Together we can protect rural community interests.

The IRWA board has also established a number of communication goals, including a quarterly news publication by January 2005, an improved and more informative Web site, and a new logo that better represents IRWA members and clients. We must find ways to effectively communicate with those who are willing to listen and even those who are too busy to hear what is being said. IRWA represents more than 660 rural water and wastewater systems. Many of those members are extremely busy just meeting the day-to-day demands of operating their water and wastewater system.

The association's voice needs to be strong, clear, and concise to make the best use of those members' time and talents. This voice must also reach those in the Illinois General Assembly, as well as the Illinois Congressional Delegation. The IRWA knows that its business is to be the voice for rural water, and the IRWA board of directors and staff intend to meet and exceed those expectations every day.

These changes will lead to more informed and active members, a stronger lobbying presence at the state and federal level, and more value for all IRWA members. It is my hope that the IRWA board and staff will better serve the needs of rural water and wastewater system operators so they may, in turn, better serve their communities.

Tim Lee became Executive Director of the Illinois Rural Water Association ( www.ilrwa.org) in February. Before that he worked for the Illinois Retired Teachers Association and has also served on numerous gubernatorial and legislative commissions.

The opinions and views of guest commentators are their own and may not represent those of the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives or the electric co-ops of Illinois.

July 2004 | www.aiec.coop | 4