Jack Wolfe, MVEA Corporate Counsel, Retires after 31 years
December 16, Falcon, CO – Mountain View Electric Association, Inc. announces the retirement of corporate counsel, Jack Wolfe. Wolfe, who has served MVEA for 31 years, will be succeeded by Matthew Richardson, who is with the law firm Zorn & Richardson, P.C.
“For over three decades, Jack has been dedicated to the mission of MVEA and to the electric cooperative principles,” Joe Martin, MVEA Board of Directors president, said. “He is a trusted advisor and has been integral in shaping and guiding our business practices and policies.”
Wolfe is well educated, he holds a degree in electrical engineering and a law degree, which made him uniquely qualified for his work with electric cooperatives. His first job at an electric cooperative was in the legal department of Tri-State Generation and Transmission, MVEA’s power supplier. Tri-State eventually made Wolfe head of its design and engineering division. After some time, Wolfe decided to start his own practice. In 1988 he interviewed at MVEA and was hired as corporate counsel. Wolfe has not only served MVEA, but over the years, he has represented many electric cooperatives in the western part of Colorado – most notably Sangre de Cristo Electric Association, Inc., which he’s counseled for the last 12 years.
Wolfe was also instrumental in the formation of MVEA’s Operation Round Up Fund. The Fund, which operates as an independent nonprofit with a separate Board, provides grants to organizations who serve MVEA members and to MVEA members who are facing catastrophic needs. Wolfe wrote the original bylaws, rules and guidelines in 1999 and has provided his legal expertise to the Fund pro bono for the last 20 years. Since its inception, Operation Round Up has donated over $2.5 million to the community.
“Starting MVEA’s Operation Round Up Fund is some of my most memorable work,” Jack said. “I’m extremely proud of the philanthropic endeavors of the program, and I’m pleased I had the opportunity to work with all those involved with the Fund.”
Wolfe spoke of several other memorable moments he’s had over the years – MVEA’s growth, notable construction projects, and the addition of substations. But, he said, above all, he’s enjoyed all the people he’s worked with.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with electric cooperatives,” Jack said. “I often find myself utilizing both my engineering background and my knowledge in utility law. I will certainly miss working with utilities and working with the people I’ve gotten to know, but it’s time to step back and focus on my work closer to home.”
Wolfe resides in Longmont, CO and will continue practicing law with local clients and small businesses. He also looks forward to continuing his involvement with his church, with the Longmont Chorale, and spending more time with his family – wife, Ruth who he will soon celebrate a 42 anniversary with, and two children, Beth and Gabe.
To ensure continuity and a smooth transition, Wolfe has been working with Richardson, the newly selected corporate counsel for MVEA, since October.
“I knew I’d have big shoes to fill when I was selected to replace Jack, but I didn’t realize he had size 15 shoes.” Richardson said. “On a serious note, I’m excited to represent MVEA, and I’m eager to continue the work of my predecessor.”
Richardson also has experience representing electric cooperatives; he serves as general counsel for Morgan County Rural Electric Association.