Central Lincoln Welcomes Rick Yecny to the Board of Directors

Lincoln County Clerk, Amy Southwell, administering the Oath of Office to newly appointed Director Rick Yecny
Lincoln County Clerk, Amy Southwell, administering the Oath of Office to newly appointed Director Rick Yecny.

Rick Yecny is Central Lincoln’s newest board member, representing subdivision 3: Alsea, Bayview, Mapleton, Seaview, Seal Rock, South Beach, Swisshome, Waldport and Yachats.

Why were you interested in a position on the Central Lincoln Board of Directors?
I was approached by a friend who thought I might be qualified to fill the open position. I’ve always been interested in the generation and distribution of energy—and after reading material on the Central Lincoln website, I felt I could be of service. I also know several people who work or have worked for Central Lincoln and they are all great people. It just seemed like a good fit.

What is your educational and professional background and how have they prepared you for your role as a board member?
My wife Jane and I have lived north of Florence for 40 years. I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and practiced as a partner in a local area firm for nearly 20 years. While I was there, I was also a board member at Peace Harbor Hospital. At one point, the hospital needed a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and I decided to change careers and go into health care. I was the CFO for 10 years, and then worked as the Chief Administrative Officer for 8 years before retiring from health care in 2018. I am currently working part-time at my old CPA firm.

I have served on several boards and budget committees over the years. I feel I bring a strong financial background and a great deal of experience working with board members and administration to reach common goals.

Any last thoughts you’d like to add?
I have always been impressed with how well Central Lincoln keeps the lights on. When we have our incredible storms resulting in power outages, employees risk life and limb to get the power back on as soon as possible.

Central Lincoln’s mission of ensuring their communities have access to reliable and affordable energy products and services, as well as their vision of connecting communities to their energy future is something I really connect with.

I look forward to meeting as many Central Lincoln employees and customers as possible, and working with an amazing Board of Directors.