Concern for our communities drives everything we do at Fayette Electric Cooperative. That’s why we are continuing to take every precaution in the fight against COVID-19—to protect our consumer-members and employees, who are critical to keeping the lights on.

“We are grateful for your understanding, patience and words of support since we made the difficult decision on March 16 to close our lobby to in-person transactions. Under guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, our doors must unfortunately remain closed to the public for now,” said FEC General Manager Gary Don Nietsche.

“But we’re still here, and we’re still ready to take your phone calls to help however we can. Our operations will be ongoing and staff will be available for member assistance by phone,” he added.    

Fayette EC offers several ways to remotely make payments including SmartHub, a free app that members can download on their Apple or Android devices; online bill pay; pay by phone by calling 979-968-4220 or 866-968-4220; regular mail or in the night drop located in our drive-thru at 357 North Washington St., La Grange. 

“As a not-for-profit cooperative, working with and helping our members during tough times is not new for us. If you are struggling to pay your bill, please give us a call and we will provide phone numbers of agencies that may be able to assist you or we may be able to work out a payment arrangement. However, payment of your electric bill is still expected and necessary for us to continue operations,” Nietsche said.   

“We expect this situation will continue to evolve. During a special called board meeting held on March 19, the board discussed recent developments and government mandates and recommendations in response to the coronavirus pandemic. In response to recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and the State of Texas recommending there be no gatherings of 10 people, the board voted unanimously that for the safety and well-being of the Cooperative’s members and the community at large the District 6 and 7 meetings scheduled for May 5 in Weimar and May 11 in Fayetteville, respectively, be cancelled as allowed by the Cooperative’s Bylaws.

“Event postponements beyond May, such as the annual membership meeting set for July 15, may become necessary to safeguard the health of those involved and/or to comply with local, state and national orders. We will continue to monitor the situation and communicate with you on decisions concerning this meeting as soon as possible,” he added.