Director Candidates
Meet the 2026 Director candidates for Districts 2, 5, and 7.
District 2
There are 10 candidates for District 2.
Paul Berning is a director candidate for District 2. He has been a WH member since 1980. He and his wife Stacy have four children.
Berning works in the fertilizer industry as a custom applicator for Federated Co-op. Prior to accepting the position, he was a member of Federated Co-op’s Board of Directors for seven years, where he assisted in the hiring process for a new CEO, and reviewed profit and loss statements of a company with $130 million in gross sales. He worked closely
with the Land O'Lakes Board of Directors on company standards, and attended and presented at various meetings and workshops. Berning was an owner-operator of a dairy farm for over 25 years, and was heavily involved in the logistics of relocating the operation from Otsego to Monticello Township.
Berning is involved with Wright County’s 4H extension program, the Knights of Columbus, and is a substitute teacher at St. Michael-Albertville. He has also worked as a youth baseball and hockey coach.
"I feel my past experiences of serving on a cooperative board will help me work with WH management and fellow board members. Together, we can meet the challenges ahead and serve our members of WH cooperative.”
Tom Campbell is a Principal at Olsen Thielen, where he works within the CPA Firm serving telecommunications organizations. With extensive experience in financial advisory services, Tom helps organizations navigate complex regulatory, operational, and strategic issues. He is well-regarded for his practical, straightforward approach and for translating detailed financial and operational data into clear, actionable insights.
A longtime cooperative member, Tom is rooted in the community he hopes to serve. He and his wife, Kelly, raised four daughters in the area, staying closely involved in local schools, sports programs, and community service initiatives.
As a board member that oversaw the transition of New River Medical Center to CentraCare, he helped guide a complex transition that ensured stability, continuity of services, and a stronger long-term future.
Tom’s blend of financial expertise, cooperative values, and demonstrated board leadership equips him to effectively represent Wright-Hennepin members and help guide the cooperative through future growth, innovation, and stewardship.
“I am a longtime member of the cooperative and care deeply about our community. I’m running for the board to help ensure reliable service, fair rates, and sound long-term planning. I believe the cooperative should continue investing in system reliability and new technologies while staying focused on member needs.”
Kyle Eichhorst is a family man, business leader, and entrepreneur running to represent District 2 on the Wright-Hennepin Board of Directors. As a WH member-owner,
he believes the cooperative must operate with fiscal discipline, reliable infrastructure, and transparent decision-making that puts members first.
Kyle serves in sales within Tommy Gate, partnering with contractors, distributors, and municipalities across the Midwest. He evaluates customer needs, pricing structures, supply chain challenges, and long-term return on investment. That experience aligns directly with the financial oversight and strategic responsibilities of a director.
He is also Co-Founder of MUDPIK, an innovative track-out protection mat company. Building the business from the ground up has provided hands-on experience in budgeting, capital allocation, supplier negotiations, and operational scaling. He understands how to grow responsibly, control costs, and protect those who ultimately pay the bills.
If elected, Kyle’s priorities include:
- Rate stability through disciplined budgeting and long-term planning
- Grid reliability and infrastructure investment
- Transparency and member engagement in board decisions
- Developing a practical energy strategy focused on reliability, affordability, and innovation
“I’m committed to ensuring Wright-Hennepin remains financially strong and truly member-driven for the long term. I would be honored to earn your support.”
Brandon Huth is a director candidate for District 2. After graduating from Iowa State University with degrees in Chemical Engineering and Environmental Studies,
Brandon worked for PepsiCo for 12 years as a director across Quality, Production, Capital Improvements, and Warehouse departments in Iowa, Virginia, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Brandon, and his wife Cierra, originally settled in Burnsville and have three wonderful, energetic children. During a relocation to Wisconsin, they realized their strong desire to return to the vibrant, welcoming communities of Minnesota. Settling down in Otsego, Brandon is now the Operations Director for Water Control Corporation in Ramsey. Brandon and his team build water filtration systems for residential, commercial, educational, and medical facilities throughout the United States.
Brandon is a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and continues to expand his knowledge on process optimization, quality assurance, and business communication. Brandon plans to use the same commitment to safety, expansion, and high standards that he utilizes to bring clean water to thousands, to bring clean energy, low costs and transparency to the members of Wright-Hennepin. In his free time, Brandon enjoys coaching baseball and Lego robotics league, volunteering, and exploring state parks.
“I look forward to serving my neighbors and expanding our communities in an efficient, economical way."
Rachael Kolles is a director candidate for District 2. She has been a WH member since 2013. Rachael and her husband, Trenton, have three children.
Kolles is an Executive Assistant at Solifi, where she serves as the primary point of contact for executive leadership, external stakeholders and liaison between the Board of Directors, ownership, and clients. Her experience allows her to work with domestic and global entities and provides experience in budget and project planning. Kolles has experience with managing contracts and RFPs, budget analysis, grant writing, and legislative funding requests. Outside of work, she serves as a Board member of the St. Michael-Albertville Girls Fastpitch Association, and a coach for the North Wright County Riverhawks hockey team.
“As a business professional, wife, and mom, I understand how much our families and local businesses depend on reliable, affordable energy. I’m running for the Board of Director position to bring thoughtful leadership, embrace smart innovation and ensure our membership remains strong, and forward-thinking for the future.”
Odell Kruah is a candidate for the District 2 Board of Directors for the Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association. A WH member since 2020, she lives in Otsego, is engaged, and is a proud mother of one child.
Odell serves as a Project Manager at SPS Commerce, where she leads cross-functional teams, manages budgets and timelines, and ensures accountability in every phase of a project. She is also a licensed Minnesota Realtor, advocating for transparency, compliance, and ethical negotiations. She holds an MBA in Project Management.
Odell believes leadership requires integrity, thoughtful decision-making, and a commitment to serving others. She understands the importance of balancing innovation with financial responsibility to protect members’ interests today and in the future.
“If elected, I will lead with integrity, prioritize fiscal responsibility, and work diligently to ensure our cooperative remains strong, member-focused, and prepared for the evolving energy landscape.”
LeRoy Lindenfelser is a director candidate for District 2. He has been a member since 1993. He and his wife, Molly have four children.
LeRoy serves as Chief Financial Officer of The Bank of Elk River, where he leads financial strategy, budgeting, and stakeholder reporting while ensuring regulatory and organizational goals are met. His role has provided extensive analytical experience in developing both short- and long-term policies that support sustainable growth. In recognition of his leadership, he was named CFO of the Year by the Minneapolis–St. Paul Business Journal in 2019.
In addition, LeRoy serves as Treasurer for Metro North Bancshares, Inc., helping align strategic goals with the objectives of its ownership group.
Outside of work, LeRoy has a long history of community involvement. He has served on several Boards of Directors, including the I-94 West Chamber of Commerce, St. Michael Community Education Endowment, STMA Girls Fastpitch Association, and City of Otsego Economic Development Authority Advisory Committee. LeRoy is also an active member of the Elk River Chamber of Commerce, Knights of Columbus Council #4174, and the St. Michael Catholic Church.
"I believe careful planning and sound stewardship are essential to meet today’s challenges while ensuring our cooperative remains strong and affordable for all members.”
Joe Noonan is a director candidate for District 2. He has been a WH member since 2015. He and his wife Melissa have two children.
Noonan has served as the Vice President of Sales for Element Fleet Management since 2022, where he leads strategic sales initiatives to drive revenue growth across several Midwest states. He has achieved 10% revenue growth in his territory, while developing and maintaining strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders. As Senior Vice President of Sales for TLC Companies, he drove top-line growth of a $90 million business, and increased bottom line revenue by over 20% annually. Noonan brings skills
in strategic planning, market analysis, sales forecasting, revenue growth, and business development.
Outside of work, Joe and his wife enjoy golf and taking their two dogs on walks. Noonan is a Board member for Peace House, a non-profit organization that supports the needs and voices of homeless individuals.
“Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.”
Karen Skepper is a director candidate for District 2. She has been a WH member since 1993. Skepper has three adult children.
Skepper recently retired after 40 years in local government. Most recently, she worked for Anoka County as the Director of Community and Governmental Relations. As a member of the senior management team, she oversaw the community development and government relations departments and led the formation of the County Economic Development Authority. As the executive director of both the Economic Development and Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, Skepper was responsible for budget preparation, management, and implementation of capital improvement programs. She has extensive experience testifying before the legislature and setting legislative priorities
for local governments. Skepper’s most recent volunteer work includes Alexandra House Women’s Shelter and the Anoka Technical College Foundation Board. Skepper currently sits on the Anoka Ramsey Community College Advisory Committee.
“My experience working with government, businesses, and the non-profit community for more than 40 years has made me an excellent candidate for the open seat in District 2. If elected, I will use my qualifications to serve the members of Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association.”
Brandon Wexler is a candidate for the District 2 Board of Directors. A member of Wright-Hennepin Cooperative Electric Association since 2017, he lives in Otsego with
his wife, Amy, and their two children.
Wexler held senior project and product marketing roles at Emerson Electric Co., managing a $20 million portfolio and leading global teams delivering growth, efficiency, and cost savings. His experience includes financial stewardship, risk management, regulatory oversight, and long-range planning across automation, aerospace, defense, and energy markets.
Wexler now serves as Senior Project Manager in Process Excellence at Essentia Health, leading initiatives improving operational reliability and experiences for patients, staff, and the community. His work emphasizes accountability and ensuring operations perform when needed most.
Wexler serves as President of the Parent Advisory Council at Prairie View Elementary, representing parent voices and partnering with school leadership to align initiatives with the school’s mission. He also coached elementary STEM teams in Northwest Metro Robotics, mentoring students in problem-solving, teamwork, and integrity.
In his youth, Wexler earned the rank of Eagle Scout, reflecting a lifelong commitment to service, preparedness, and principled leadership.
“As a director and member-owner, I will ensure reliable power, responsible rates, and thoughtful decisions through strong advocacy for the families and businesses we serve.”
District 5
There is one candidate for District 5.
Chris Lantto is the incumbent director running in District 5. Lantto has served as District 5 director since 1987 and was chairman of the Board for 15 years. He has
been a WH member since 1979. He and his wife Vicki have nine children and 10 grandchildren.
Lantto owned Lantto’s Store in French Lake for more than 40 years and is a past member of the Annandale and Cokato Chambers of Commerce. His other volunteer efforts include serving on the Riverside Cemetery Association Board and as a past chairman and board member of the First Apostolic Congregation of Cokato and a board member of Pioneer Park in Annandale.
"I consider it a privilege to be a director of such a progressive organization as WH and to be able to work with talented individuals on the board and management. The last few years have been especially challenging with wholesale rate increases, renewables, natural gas gaining market share and coal playing a lesser role in our power supply mix, and our members using electric vehicles. Keeping our retail rates competitive and reliable for our members is still our number one priority. The years ahead will have more challenges and I am eager to be a part of the process.”
District 7
There is one candidate for District 7.
Audrey Britton, the incumbent director for District 7, has been a WH member since 2001. She and her husband Craig have three children.
During her first term, Britton became a Credentialed Cooperative Director and earned a Board Leadership Certificate. She represented WH in Washington, D.C., and at the Minnesota Capitol, and recently became WH’s NRECA and CoBank delegate.
Britton brings an extensive background in strategic communications in global businesses, a government agency, and nonprofits, reporting directly to CEOs and executive teams. She has developed plans for mergers and acquisitions, crisis situations, government relations, marketing and internal programs. She earned accreditation and won numerous awards for her work. Britton once guided a team to surpass sales goals by 32% despite the distraction of large-scale changes due to a merger.
Britton is a creative problem solver, quick study and natural relationship builder, skills that will help WH thrive in the face of legislation moving through the Minnesota state government. She is founder of the 1,000 member Plymouth Equity and Inclusion group and previously chaired the Plymouth Transit Advisory Committee.
“As a WH board member, I am excited to represent District 7 members, to bring their voices forward and ensure WH meets its long-term objectives while ensuring rates remain stable.”