It was years ago that the delivery of Energy became deregulated. That announcement was of interest to most of us in county government, but only in a general sense. We did not make the connection that the situation allowed for the direct purchase of energy by municipalities...which could save our taxpayers a good deal of money. The three people who did make the connection were county legislators from the Southern Tier. Stuart Stein, Fran Leavenworth, and Barbara Blanchard saw the potential, studied the necessary steps to make it happen, and took the first step in the thousand mile journey, leading their counties and eventually many other counties and municipalities to a better place. I can tell you that when they told me about the possibilities for Genesee County, I was very skeptical. What sold me, and I am sure others, was the confidence that they exuded, which grew from the painstaking research and practical procedures developed.
Others are in a better position than I to give the history of the growth of Mega from these modest beginnings, but each of these three individuals had something very special to contribute and they gave it freely. On this occasion, I just want to mention Stuart Stein’s legacy, as I experienced it. Not all of us had the complete understanding of the Alliance, its purpose, potential, and parameters...certainly when we first became members, and then perhaps were privileged to serve on the Board...so I think Stu undertook our orientation. Sometimes informally, other times it was a clear and necessary education session, but always graciously done, with a real understanding of where we came from and our constituency. He was so patient and persistent. Then just when the light went on, and understanding came...he would introduce another idea, another road to follow...energy conservation, other sources of energy, other municipalities to participate, others to educate (the internship programs), his mind was a disco ball of ideas and strategies. At our Board meetings, he would report on the many activities he accomplished since the last meeting, and always ended with a new possibility to explore or a new and improved way of operating. He seemed to take such joy in being able to do something positive for those in the MEGA Alliance, and worked diligently to expand the circle so that more could benefit.
I am so grateful that I had the great pleasure in knowing Stu and working with him. He mentored me, whether he knew it or not. His work ethic, his dedication to excellence, and his endless curiosity will stay with me as shining examples whenever think of Stu.
I send my most sincere condolences to your family at their loss.
Mary Pat Hancock
