During the 2026 election cycle, members will cast four votes. Three for Director positions and one vote on bylaw amendments. Information on the proposed amendments may be found here:
Director Elections
The Co-op’s service area is divided into 7 districts, and each district’s members are represented by a Board Director. Together, the Board of Directors manages the business and affairs of the Co-op. You, as a member-owner of your autonomous, democratically controlled Co-op, have the right to vote for these Directors, whether they live in your district or not. This year, districts 2, 4, and 6 seats are up for election, however seats 2 and 6 are uncontested. The election will take place on March 19, 2026 at our Annual Meeting of the Membership. If you are unable to attend the Annual Meeting, you may cast your vote in person at our office in Victor from March 2 – March 13.
Meet the 2026 Candidates
Fred Thomas – District 2 | Uncontested
I have been a Ravalli County resident for decades and bring extensive experience in business, leadership, and public service. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Finance from Montana State University and am a Certified Insurance Counselor.
I built and owned the largest independent insurance agency in the Bitterroot Valley and currently serve as a sales executive with Marsh McLennan. My professional background includes leadership roles in insurance, finance, and risk management.
In addition to my business career, I served 24 years in the Montana Legislature, including eight years as Senate Majority Leader. I have also served on the Stevensville School Board and have been deeply involved in numerous community projects. I believe in collaboration, sound decision-making, and long-term planning, and if re-elected I am committed to supporting reliable electric service and strong cooperative governance for REC members.
Larry Trexler – District 6 | Uncontested
My wife, Peggy, and I are lifelong residents of Ravalli County and long-time members of Ravalli Electric Cooperative. Together, we operate a family ranch in the registered Angus cattle business.
I have been actively involved in the community for many years, including supporting local 4-H and FFA programs. I have served on the Ravalli Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees since 2005 and also represented the cooperative on the Montana Electric Cooperative Association Board for 14 years.
I value the opportunity to serve REC members and take pride in working with fellow trustees and staff to ensure reliable electric service for the membership. I appreciate the support of cooperative members and look forward to continuing my service on the Board.
Robert (Bob) Popham – District 4 | Incumbent
Greetings Members: I was born and raised in Corvallis, Montana, and have deep roots in agriculture, business, and public service in the Bitterroot Valley. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business and Economics from Montana State University.
My professional background includes work with Great Falls National Bank, owning and operating Stevensville Feed & Fuel for 27 years, involvement with Valley Irrigation, and managing my fourth-generation family ranch in Corvallis. I am currently retired.
I have a long history of community involvement, including more than 20 years of service as a volunteer, officer, and director with the Stevensville Fire Department. I have also served as a trustee for the Stevensville School Board and the Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital Board, and I have been a long-time supporter of youth programs such as 4-H and FFA.
I currently serve on the Boards of Trustees for the Corvallis Canal & Water Company and the Bitterroot Conservation District, and I have served on the Ravalli Electric Cooperative Board of Trustees since 2011.
Lois Hedg-peth – District 4
The Bitterroot Valley is a wonderful place to build a life, and I want to ensure it stays that way for our children and grandchildren. With three generations of my family currently living here in District 4, I have a vested interest in the future of our co-op. I know that affordable and reliable electricity is the backbone of our way of life, and I am ready to put my experience to work to protect it.
My Professional Experience: I bring a unique blend of industry expertise to the Board. I have built and led competitive energy businesses across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. This background gives me the foundation to navigate complex energy markets and ensure sound financial management for our members. Additionally, my 20+ years in the telecommunications industry will be valuable in guiding the Co-op’s broadband expansion.
My Commitment to Our Community: After my husband and I settled here, I served on the Bitterroot Health (formerly Marcus Daly) board for nine years, including five as Board Chairman. During that time, we progressed our mission by building clinics in Victor, Darby, and Stevensville, upgrading our surgery center, and adding an oncology and infusion center. This experience demonstrates my ability to listen to the community and lead strategic initiatives that get results.
My Focus for the Future: I believe electricity will be a defining issue for the Valley in the coming years. If elected, my priorities will be reliability—ensuring our supply is always there when you need it; affordability—keeping rates manageable for all member-owners; and community—fostering strong relationships and transparency with our members.