Setting a new foundation for conduct at its meetings, the Pedernales Electric Board of Directors voted July 20 to abide by the rules contained in the 10th edition of "Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised," with specific attention to its "Procedure in Small Boards" section.

"We deemed Robert's Rules of Order the best and most widely used procedures for conducting board meetings," said District 7 Director Patrick Cox, who sponsored the resolution with board president Larry Landaker, District 6 director.

PEC's governing body also voted to streamline its committee structure, dissolving all prior committees except the Audit Committee. The new policy committees, to be approved at the next board meeting, are Governance, Bylaws and Legal; Energy, Conservation and Renewable Generation Programs; and Financial Strategies, Contracts and Budgets.

Guidelines were adopted for charters, meeting minutes and limitations on the number of meetings per year. Committee chairs were given latitude to appoint PEC members and other individuals to serve as volunteer advisers.

The board also recognized the effects of the heat wave gripping Central Texas and unanimously approved a resolution to waive any $100 reconnection fees assessed to PEC members from June through September 2009.

"This reflects the tremendous effect the very hot summer has had on our members, as well as the bad economy we're in," said PEC General Manager Juan Garza.

In other action, the board:

• heard a report that more than $566,000 had been legally deemed Texland funds, to be disbursed after a meeting between Texland's owners.

• approved major infrastructure projects in the Cedar Park and Kyle areas.

• decided that ideas for a long-term strategic planning session would be presented at the Aug. 17 board meeting in Johnson City.