TY 2024 Form 990

- TIN:

Form990

Department of the TreasuryInternal Revenue Service

Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax

Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private foundations)

Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.

Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2024

Open to Public Inspection

A For the 2024 calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2024 , and ending 12-31-2024

BCheck if applicable: Address change Name change Initial return Final return/terminated Amended return Application pending

CName of organization
STEARNS COOPERATIVE ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Doing business as
STEARNS ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
900 KRAFT DR SE PO BOX 40

Room/suite

City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
MELROSE, MN56352

D Employer identification number

41-0558175

E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 71,828,603

F Name and address of principal officer:
MATTHEW O'SHEA
900 KRAFT DR SE PO BOX 40
MELROSE,MN56352

Tax-exempt status: 501(c)(3) 501(c) ( 12 ) (insert no.) 4947(a)(1) or 527

Website:

WWW.STEARNSELECTRIC.ORG

H(a)

Is this a group return for
subordinates? Yes No

H(b)

Are all subordinates
included?

Yes No

If "No," attach a list. See instructions.

H(c)

Group exemption number

K Form of organization: Corporation Trust Association Other

L Year of formation: 1937

M State of legal domicile: MN

Part I

Summary

1	Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: GENERATION AND PURCHASE OF ELECTRICITY FOR DISTRIBUTION ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS TO MEMBERS.
2	Check this box
3	Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ........	3	9
4	Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .....	4	9
5	Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2024 (Part V, line 2a) ......	5	86
6	Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .............	6	0
7a	Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ........	7a	70,590
b	Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, Part I, line 11 .........	7b	48,497

		Prior Year	Current Year
8	Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) .........	0	0
9	Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) .........	64,959,492	68,905,868
10	Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) ....	411,286	558,855
11	Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e)	3,563,433	2,045,560
12	Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)	68,934,211	71,510,283
13	Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...	0	0
14	Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4).....	5,985,270	6,632,331
15	Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10)	982,606	839,703
16a	Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e) .....	0	0
b	Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) 0
17	Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24e)....	61,966,335	64,038,249
18	Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25)	68,934,211	71,510,283
19	Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12.......	0	0
		Beginning of Current Year	End of Year
20	Total assets (Part X, line 16).............	164,428,387	190,422,858
21	Total liabilities (Part X, line 26).............	85,284,516	106,763,853
22	Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20.....	79,143,871	83,659,005

Part II

Signature Block

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.

Sign Here

	Signature of officer	Date

	Type or print name and title

Paid Preparer Use Only

Print/Type preparer's name

Preparer's signature

Date

Check if
self-employed

PTIN

Firm's name

Firm's EIN

Firm's address

Phone no.

May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See Instructions. ..........YesNo

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.

Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2024)

Form 990 (2024)

Page 2

Part III

Statement of Program Service Accomplishments

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part III..............

Briefly describe the organization’s mission: GENERATION AND PURCHASE OF ELECTRICITY FOR DISTRIBUTION AND SALE ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS TO MEMBERS.

Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ..................... Yes No

If "Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O.

Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program
services? ........................... Yes No

If "Yes," describe these changes on Schedule O.

Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.


4a	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )
	SOLD 524,306,568 KWH'S TO OUR COOPERATIVE MEMBERS IN 2024. THE AVERAGE NUMBER OF TOTAL SERVICES WAS 28,559. WE OPERATE ON A COOPERATIVE BASIS TO GENERATE, PURCHASE, DISTRIBUTE, AND SELL ELECTRICITY TO OUR MEMBERS. NET PATRONAGE MARGINS, OUR NET INCOME, IS USED TO GROW OUR PLANT AND RETIRE CAPITAL CREDITS. NET MARGINS ARE ALLOCATED TO MEMBERS AND RETURNED TO OUR MEMBERS OVER TIME.

4b	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )












4c	(Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )












4d	Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
	(Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ )
4e	Total program service expenses

Form 990 (2024)

Page 3

Part IV

Checklist of Required Schedules

Yes

Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If "Yes," complete Schedule A.....................

Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? See instructions. ...

Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part I.............

Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part II.........

Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Rev. Proc. 98-19? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part III..

Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part I Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

.........................

Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas, or historic structures? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part II Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

....

Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If "Yes,"
complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

..............

Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21 for escrow or custodial account liability; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IV Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

..............

Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi endowments? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part V......

If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X, as applicable.

Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line 10? If "Yes," complete
Schedule D, Part VI. Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

...................

11a

Yes

Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VII Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

.......

11b

Yes

Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIII Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

.......

11c

Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IX Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

............

11d

Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part X Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

11e

Yes

Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part X Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

11f

Yes

12a

Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," complete
Schedule D, Parts XI and XII Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

......................

12a

Yes

Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," and if the organization answered "No" to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI and XII is optional Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

12b

Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If "Yes," complete Schedule E

14a

Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States? .....

14a

Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States, or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If "Yes," complete Schedule F, Parts I and IV.........

14b

Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for any foreign organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts II and IV.....

Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or other assistance to or for foreign individuals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts III and IV...

Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000 of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part I. See instructions. ....

Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part II............

Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part III...................

20a

Did the organization operate one or more hospital facilities? If "Yes," complete Schedule H....

20a

If "Yes" to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statements to this return?

20b

Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to any domestic organization or domestic government on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II.....

Form 990 (2024)

Page 4

Part IV

Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)

Yes

Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for domestic individuals on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III........

Did the organization answer "Yes" to Part VII, Section A, line 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If "Yes," complete Schedule J....................... Click to see attachment

List of Attached Documents:

// Content

Yes

24a

Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer lines 24b through 24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25a...............

24a

Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...

24b

Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds? ...............

24c

Did the organization act as an "on behalf of" issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...

24d

25a

Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I ....

25a

Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I.......................

25b

Did the organization report any amount on Part X, line 5 or 22 for receivables from or payables to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part II...........

Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity (including an employee thereof) or family member of any of these persons?

If "Yes," complete

Schedule L, Part III.........................

Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties (see the Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):

A current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, or substantial contributor? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV......................

28a

A family member of any individual described in line 28a? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....

28b

A 35% controlled entity of one or more individuals and/or organizations described in line 28a or 28b? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....................

28c

Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M..

Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M .................

Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part I

Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part II........................

Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part I............

Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part II, III, or IV, and Part V, line 1.........................

35a

Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?

35a

If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2 ...

35b

Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2.............

Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part VI

Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations on Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11b and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............

Yes

Part V

Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part V...........

Yes

Enter the number reported in box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable ..

Enter the number of Forms W-2G included on line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable .

Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................

Form 990 (2024)

Page 5

Part V

Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance (continued)

Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and
Tax Statements, filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return ..................

If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Yes

Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?...

Yes

If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No” to line 3b, provide an explanation in Schedule O...

Yes

At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)? ..

If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country:
See instructions for filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).

Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year? ..

Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?

If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ............

Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible as charitable contributions? ...

If "Yes," did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible? ......................

Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).

Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor? ....................

If "Yes," did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided? .....

Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282? .........................

If "Yes," indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....

Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?

Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract? ..

If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required? ......................

If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C? ..........................

Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds. Did a donor advised fund maintained by the sponsoring organization have excess business holdings at any time during the year? ........

Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.

Did the sponsoring organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?........

Did the sponsoring organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?...

Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:

Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...

10a

Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities

10b

Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:

Gross income from members or shareholders .........

11a

70,847,801

Gross income from other sources. (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ..........

11b

723,810

12a

Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?

12a

If "Yes," enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.

12b

Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.

Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state? .........
Note. See the instructions for additional information the organization must report on Schedule O.

13a

Enter the amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans ....

13b

Enter the amount of reserves on hand ............

13c

14a

Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....

14a

If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If "No," provide an explanation in Schedule O..

14b

Is the organization subject to the section 4960 tax on payment(s) of more than $1,000,000 in remuneration or excess parachute payment(s) during the year? ....................
If "Yes," see the instructions and file Form 4720, Schedule N.

Is the organization an educational institution subject to the section 4968 excise tax on net investment income? ..
If "Yes," complete Form 4720, Schedule O.

Section 501(c)(21) organizations. Did the trust, or any disqualified or other person engage in any activities that would result in the imposition of an excise tax under section 4951, 4952, or 4953? ..
If "Yes," complete Form 6069.

Form 990 (2024)

Page 6

Part VI

Governance, Management, and Disclosure. For each "Yes" response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a "No" response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VI..............

Section A. Governing Body and Management

Yes

Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year

If there are material differences in voting rights among members of the governing body, or if the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.

Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent

Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................

Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .

Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed? .

Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .

Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................

Yes

Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? ....................

Yes

Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ...................

Yes

Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:

The governing body? .......................

Yes

Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............

Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If "Yes," provide the names and addresses in Schedule O.......

Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal Revenue Code.)

Yes

10a

Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............

10a

Yes

If "Yes," did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes?

10b

Yes

11a

Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form? ............................

11a

Yes

Describe on Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review this Form 990. .....

12a

Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If "No," go to line 13.......

12a

Yes

Were officers, directors, or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ..........................

12b

Yes

Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If "Yes," describe on Schedule O how this was done...................

12c

Yes

Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............

Yes

Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........

Yes

Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?

The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........

15a

Yes

Other officers or key employees of the organization ................

15b

Yes

If "Yes" to line 15a or 15b, describe the process on Schedule O. See instructions.

16a

Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................

16a

If "Yes," did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............

16b

Section C. Disclosure

List the states with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filed

Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (1024 or 1024-A, if applicable), 990, and 990-T (section 501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.

Own website Another's website Upon request Other (explain in Schedule O)

Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how) the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.

State the name, address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the organization's books and records:
CINDY ANDERSON900 KRAFT DR SE PO BOX 40 MELROSE,MN56352 (800) 962-0655

Form 990 (2024)

Page 7

Part VII

Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VII..............

Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees

1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet

List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See the instructions for definition of "key employee."

List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (box 5 of Form W-2, box 6 of Form 1099-MISC, and/or box 1 of Form 1099-NEC) of more than $100,000 from the organization and any related organizations.

List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

See the instructions for the order in which to list the persons above.

Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organization compensated any current officer, director, or trustee.

(A) Name and title	(B) Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line)	(C) Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee)				(D) Reportable compensation from the organization (W-2/1099-MISC/1099-NEC)	(E) Reportable compensation from related organizations (W-2/1099-MISC/1099-NEC)	(F) Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
(A) Name and title
(1) ERIC PETERSON...................................................................... PRESIDENT	8.00 .................	X	X			21,050	0	0
(2) RANDALL ROTHSTEIN...................................................................... VICE PRESIDENT	5.00 .................	X	X			17,000	0	0
(3) MICHAEL CRAMER...................................................................... SECRETARY/TREASURER	7.00 .................	X	X			20,550	0	0
(4) ROBERT NIEHAUS...................................................................... DIRECTOR	6.00 .................	X				16,000	0	0
(5) ARLYN LAWRENZ...................................................................... DIRECTOR	8.00 .................	X				16,000	0	0
(6) GREG BLAINE...................................................................... DIRECTOR	5.00 .................	X				16,000	0	0
(7) JEROME FRIES...................................................................... DIRECTOR	7.00 .................	X				16,000	0	0
(8) JEFF KOEHLER...................................................................... DIRECTOR	6.00 .................	X				15,750	0	0
(9) SCOTT DIRKES...................................................................... DIRECTOR	8.00 .................	X				18,500	0	0
(10) MATTHEW O'SHEA...................................................................... CEO	45.00 .................		X			280,547	0	116,317
(11) VICTORIA A HERKENHOFF...................................................................... VP OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE	45.00 .................			X		192,344	0	93,645
(12) CINDY ANDERSON...................................................................... MANAGER OF FINANCE	45.00 .................				X	149,559	0	81,014
(13) GLENN BLOMMEL...................................................................... MANAGER OF OPERATIONS	48.00 .................				X	176,921	0	88,825
(14) RYAN ZIERDEN...................................................................... MANAGER OF IT	50.00 .................				X	163,745	0	67,503
(15) JAMES TURNER...................................................................... MANAGER OF ENGINEERING	43.00 .................				X	147,008	0	51,698
(16) JACOB RONNING...................................................................... JOUNEYMAN LINEMAN	47.27 .................				X	142,966	0	27,844

Form 990 (2024)

Page 8

Part VII

Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)

(A) Name and title	(B) Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line)	(C) Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee)						(D) Reportable compensation from the organization (W-2/1099-MISC/1099-NEC)	(E) Reportable compensation from related organizations (W-2/1099-MISC/1099-NEC)	(F) Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
(A) Name and title

1b	Sub-Total..............
c	Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A..
d	Total (add lines 1b and 1c).........	1,409,940	0	526,846

Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organization 35

Yes

Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such individual ..............

For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such
individual...........................

Yes

Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such person ........

Section B. Independent Contractors

Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.

(A) Name and business address	(B) Description of services	(C) Compensation
CARR'S TREE SERVICE PO BOX 250 OTTERTAIL,MN56571	TREE CLEARING	1,787,477
GLT ARCHITECTS (GLTA) 808 COURTHOUSE SQUARE ST CLOUD,MN56303	ARCHITECT SERVICES	994,236
INTEGRITY CONTRACTING INC 17827 COUNTY ROAD 2 SHEVLIN,MN56676	UNDERGROUND POWER LINE UTILITY CONTRACTI	927,885
NATIONAL INFO SOLUTION COOP PO BOX 1147 MANDAN,ND58554	SOFTWARE SERVICE SUPPORT	483,340
JOHNSON LOCATING SERVICE INC 7170 SKI CHALET PO BOX 246 PEQUOT LAKES,MN56472	CABLE LOCATES	270,976
2 Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization 7

Form 990 (2024)

Page 9

Part VIII

Statement of Revenue

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VIII.............

(A)
Total revenue

(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue

(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512 - 514

1a	Federated campaigns..	1a
b	Membership dues..	1b
c	Fundraising events..	1c
d	Related organizations	1d
e	Government grants (contributions)	1e

f	All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above	1f

g	Noncash contributions included in lines 1a - 1f:$	1g

h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......

		Business Code
2a	SALE OF ELECTRICITY	221000	68,905,868	68,905,868
b
c
d
e
f	All other program service revenue.
g	Total. Add lines 2a–2f .....		68,905,868

3 Investment income (including dividends, interest, and othersimilar amounts) ......			555,311			555,311
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds
5 Royalties...........
			(i) Real	(ii) Personal
6a	Gross rents	6a	45,867
b	Less: rental expenses	6b	0
c	Rental income or (loss)	6c	45,867
d	Net rental income or (loss).......			45,867			45,867
			(i) Securities	(ii) Other
7a	Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory	7a		87,982
b	Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses	7b		84,438
c	Gain or (loss)	7c		3,544
d	Net gain or (loss).........			3,544			3,544
8a	Gross income from fundraising events (not including $ of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ....
			8a
b	Less: direct expenses ...		8b
c	Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..
9a	Gross income from gaming activities. See Part IV, line 19 ...
			9a
b	Less: direct expenses ...		9b
c	Net income or (loss) from gaming activities..
10a	Gross sales of inventory, less returns and allowances ..
			10a	232,228
b	Less: cost of goods sold ..		10b	233,882
c	Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..			-1,654	-1,654

Business Code
11a	CAPITAL CREDITS		523000	1,897,007	1,897,007
b	SUBSIDIARY INCOME		523000	94,336	23,746	70,590
c	MISCELLANEOUS FEES		523000	10,004	10,004
d	All other revenue ....
e	Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......			2,001,347
12	Total revenue. See instructions.....			71,510,283	70,834,971	70,590	604,722

Form 990 (2024)

Page 10

Part IX

Statement of Functional Expenses

Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A).Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............

Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b, 7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII.		(A) Total expenses	(B) Program service expenses	(C) Management and general expenses	(D) Fundraising expenses

1	Grants and other assistance to domestic organizations and domestic governments. See Part IV, line 21 ....
2	Grants and other assistance to domestic individuals. See Part IV, line 22 ...........
3	Grants and other assistance to foreign organizations, foreign governments, and foreign individuals. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16. .............
4	Benefits paid to or for members .......	6,632,331
5	Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees ...........	839,703
6	Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) .........
7	Other salaries and wages........
8	Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) ....
9	Other employee benefits .......
10	Payroll taxes ...........
11	Fees for services (non-employees):
a	Management ......
b	Legal .........
c	Accounting ...........
d	Lobbying ...........
e	Professional fundraising services. See Part IV, line 17
f	Investment management fees ......
g	Other (If line 11g amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 11g expenses on Schedule O)
12	Advertising and promotion ....
13	Office expenses .......
14	Information technology ......
15	Royalties ..
16	Occupancy ...........
17	Travel ............
18	Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials .
19	Conferences, conventions, and meetings ....
20	Interest ...........	2,428,448
21	Payments to affiliates .......
22	Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..	5,237,243
23	Insurance ...
24	Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24e. If line 24e amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24e expenses on Schedule O.)
a	COST OF POWER	42,433,055
b	MAINTENANCE	4,290,066
c	OPERATIONS	4,143,891
d	GENERAL & ADMIN	3,048,973
e	All other expenses	2,456,573
25	Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24e	71,510,283
26	Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).

Form 990 (2024)

Page 11

Part X

Balance Sheet

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX..............

				(A) Beginning of year		(B) End of year

1	Cash–non-interest-bearing ........			1,568,470	1	1,517,414
2	Savings and temporary cash investments .........			693,520	2	9,021,713
3	Pledges and grants receivable, net ......				3
4	Accounts receivable, net .............			6,373,420	4	7,372,762
5	Loans and other receivables from any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons .......
					5
6	Loans and other receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)), and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ...
					6
7	Notes and loans receivable, net ...........				7
8	Inventories for sale or use ............			3,940,563	8	4,261,955
9	Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ......			551,321	9	443,893
10a	Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D	10a	179,710,051
b	Less: accumulated depreciation	10b	54,113,231	111,285,372	10c	125,596,820
11	Investments—publicly traded securities .				11
12	Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 .....			39,343,619	12	41,698,262
13	Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..				13
14	Intangible assets ...............				14
15	Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ...........			672,102	15	510,039
16	Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 33)...			164,428,387	16	190,422,858

17	Accounts payable and accrued expenses .....	10,233,350	17	11,425,405
18	Grants payable ...		18
19	Deferred revenue .........		19
20	Tax-exempt bond liabilities .........		20
21	Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D		21
22	Loans and other payables to any current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, creator or founder, substantial contributor, or 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons .........
			22
23	Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..	69,848,504	23	90,333,076
24	Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ..		24
25	Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17 - 24). Complete Part X of Schedule D	5,202,662	25	5,005,372
26	Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..	85,284,516	26	106,763,853

	Organizations that follow FASB ASC 958, check here and complete lines 27, 28, 32, and 33.
27	Net assets without donor restrictions ..........		27
28	Net assets with donor restrictions ...........		28
	Organizations that do not follow FASB ASC 958, check here and complete lines 29 through 33.
29	Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....	0	29	0
30	Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund ...	0	30	0
31	Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds	79,143,871	31	83,659,005
32	Total net assets or fund balances ...........	79,143,871	32	83,659,005
33	Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ........	164,428,387	33	190,422,858

Form 990 (2024)

Page 12

Part XI

Reconcilliation of Net Assets

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XI..............

Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ............

71,510,283

Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ............

71,510,283

Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ..............

Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 32, column (A)) ..

79,143,871

Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ...............

Donated services and use of facilities .................

Investment expenses .....................

Prior period adjustments .....................

Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ........

4,515,134

Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3 through 9 (must equal Part X, line 32, column (B))

83,659,005

Part XII

Financial Statements and Reporting

Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XII.............

Yes

Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990: Cash Accrual Other
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain on
Schedule O.

Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?

If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were compiled or reviewed on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:

Separate basis Consolidated basis Both consolidated and separate basis

Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?

Yes

If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were audited on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:

Separate basis Consolidated basis Both consolidated and separate basis

If "Yes," to line 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?

Yes

If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O.

As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Uniform Guidance, 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart F?

If "Yes," did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits.

Form 990 (2024)

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

Form 990, Special Condition Description:

Special Condition Description

- TIN:

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Supplemental Financial Statements

Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b.
right arrow

Attach to Form 990.
right arrow

Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.

OMB No. 1545-0047

Open to Public Inspection

Name of the organization

STEARNS COOPERATIVE ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Employer identification number

41-0558175

Part I

Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 6.

		(a) Donor advised funds	(b) Funds and other accounts
1	Total number at end of year .........
2	Aggregate value of contributions to (during year)
3	Aggregate value of grants from (during year)
4	Aggregate value at end of year ........

Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised funds are the organization’s property, subject to the organization’s exclusive legal control? ............

Yes No

Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................

Yes No

Part II

Conservation Easements.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 7.

Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).

Preservation of land for public use (e.g., recreation or education) Preservation of an historically important land area

Protection of natural habitat Preservation of a certified historic structure

Preservation of open space

Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.


a	Total number of conservation easements ......................	2a
b	Total acreage restricted by conservation easements ....................	2b
c	Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) .....	2c
d	Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after July 25, 2006, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register ...	2d

Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during the
tax year right arrow

Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located right arrow

Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? ............

Yes No

Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
right arrow

Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
right arrow

Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section 170(h)(4)(B)(i) and section 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? .............................

Yes No

In Part XIII, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.

Part III

Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 8.

If the organization elected, as permitted under FASB ASC 958, not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide, in Part XIII, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.

If the organization elected, as permitted under FASB ASC 958, to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide the following amounts relating to these items:

(i)

Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ......................... right arrow

(ii)

Assets included in Form 990, Part X ............................... right arrow

If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under FASB ASC 958 relating to these items:

Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .......................... right arrow

Assets included in Form 990, Part X ............................... right arrow

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.

Cat. No. 52283D

Schedule D (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Page 2

Part III

Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)

Using the organization’s acquisition, accession, and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection items (check all that apply):

Public exhibition

Loan or exchange programs

Scholarly research

Other

Preservation for future generations

Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIII.

During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?...

Yes No

Part IV

Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.

Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................

Yes No


b	If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII and complete the following table:		Amount
c	Beginning balance .............................	1c
d	Additions during the year ............................	1d
e	Distributions during the year ..........................	1e
f	Ending balance ................................	1f

Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21, for escrow or custodial account liability? ...

Yes No

If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII. Check here if the explanation has been provided in Part XIII ....

Part V

Endowment Funds.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 10.

		(a) Current year	(b) Prior year	(c) Two years back	(d) Three years back	(e) Four years back

1a	Beginning of year balance ....
b	Contributions ...
c	Net investment earnings, gains, and losses
d	Grants or scholarships ...
e	Other expenditures for facilities and programs ...
f	Administrative expenses ....
g	End of year balance ......

Provide the estimated percentage of the current year end balance (line 1g, column (a)) held as:

Board designated or quasi-endowment right arrow

Permanent endowment right arrow

Term endowment right arrow

The percentages on lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.

Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes

(i) Unrelated organizations .................

3a(i)

(ii) Related organizations .................

3a(ii)

If "Yes" on 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........

Describe in Part XIII the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.

Part VI

Land, Buildings, and Equipment.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11a. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.

Description of property		(a) Cost or other basis (investment)	(b) Cost or other basis (other)	(c) Accumulated depreciation	(d) Book value

1a	Land .....	969,166		969,166
b	Buildings ....	6,203,988	2,597,943	3,606,045
c	Leasehold improvements
d	Equipment ....	172,536,897	51,515,288	121,021,609
e	Other .....
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)..				125,596,820

Schedule D (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Page 3

Part VII

Investments - Other Securities.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 11b. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.

(a) Description of security or category (including name of security)	(b) Book value	(c) Method of valuation: Cost or end-of-year market value
(1) Financial derivatives.........
(2) Closely-held equity interests........
(3) Other (A) PATRONAGE CAPITAL	31,520,522	C
(B) INVEST IN CFC-LOAN CTCS	1,093,751	C
(C) INVEST IN ASSOCIATED ORG	13,625	C
(D) INVEST IN ECON DEV PROJECTS	4,348,155	C
(E) OTHER INVESTMENTS	4,722,209	C
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)	41,698,262

Part VIII

Investments - Program Related. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11c. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.

(a) Description of investment	(b) Book value	(c) Method of valuation: Cost or end-of-year market value

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)

Part IX

Other Assets.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11d. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.

(a) Description				(b) Book value

(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........

Part X

Other Liabilities.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11e or 11f. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.

1.(a) Description of liability	(b) Book value
(1) Federal income taxes
DEFERRED CREDITS	4,564,945
ACCUMULATED PROVISION FOR PENSIONS	440,427







Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)	5,005,372
2. Liability for uncertain tax positions. In Part XIII, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740). Check here if the text of the footnote has been provided in Part XIII

Schedule D (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Page 4

Part XI Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1	Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements .......			1	71,476,059
2	Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a	Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ....	2a
b	Donated services and use of facilities .........	2b
c	Recoveries of prior year grants ...........	2c
d	Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ...........	2d
e	Add lines 2a through 2d .....................			2e	0
3	Subtract line 2e from line 1..................			3	71,476,059
4	Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a	Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .	4a
b	Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ...........	4b	34,224
c	Add lines 4a and 4b....................			4c	34,224
5	Total revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ......			5	71,510,283

Part XII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1	Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ...........			1	64,843,728
2	Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a	Donated services and use of facilities .........	2a
b	Prior year adjustments ............	2b
c	Other losses ................	2c
d	Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ...........	2d
e	Add lines 2a through 2d....................			2e	0
3	Subtract line 2e from line 1...................			3	64,843,728
4	Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a	Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b ..	4a
b	Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ...........	4b	6,666,555
c	Add lines 4a and 4b.....................			4c	6,666,555
5	Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ......			5	71,510,283

Part XIII

Supplemental Information

Provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b; Part V, line 4; Part X, line 2; Part XI, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.

Return Reference	Explanation
PART X, LINE 2:	THE COOPERATIVE IS EXEMPT FROM INCOME TAXES UNDER SECTION 501(C)(12) OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE CODE (IRC). GAINS AND LOSSES FROM THE COOPERATIVE'S EQUITY INVESTMENTS ARE INCLUDED WITH THE COOPERATIVE'S UNRELATED BUSINESS INCOME FOR TAX REPORTING PURPOSES. THE COOPERATIVE UTILIZES AN ASSET AND LIABILITY APPROACH TO FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING FOR INCOME TAXES. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES ARE COMPUTED ANNUALLY FOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT AND TAX BASIS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES THAT WILL RESULT IN TAXABLE OR DEDUCTIBLE AMOUNTS IN THE FUTURE BASED ON ENACTED TAX LAWS AND RATES APPLICABLE TO THE PERIODS IN WHICH THE DIFFERENCES ARE EXPECTED TO AFFECT TAXABLE INCOME. AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2024 AND 2023, THE COOPERATIVE HAS A DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSET OF $-0- AND $6,498, RESPECTIVELY, SEE NOTE 17. VALUATION ALLOWANCES ARE ESTABLISHED WHEN NECESSARY TO REDUCE DEFERRED TAX ASSETS TO THE AMOUNT EXPECTED TO BE REALIZED. THE BENEFIT FOR INCOME TAXES IS THE TAX PAYABLE OR REFUNDABLE FOR THE PERIOD PLUS OR MINUS THE CHANGE DURING THE PERIOD IN DEFERRED TAX ASSETS AND LIABILITIES. THE COOPERATIVE EVALUATED ITS TAX POSITIONS AND DETERMINED THAT IT HAS NO UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2024 AND 2023.
PART XI, LINE 4B - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS:	EXPENSES RECORDED AS REVENUE 34,224.
PART XII, LINE 4B - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS:	PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS ALLOCATED 6,632,331. EXPENSES RECORDED AS REVENUE 34,224.

Schedule D (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

- TIN:

Schedule J
(Form 990)
(Rev. January 2025)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Compensation Information

For certain Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest
Compensated Employees
medium right arrow graphic

Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 23.
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Attach to Form 990.
medium right arrow graphic

Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.

OMB No. 1545-0047

Open to Public Inspection

Name of the organization

STEARNS COOPERATIVE ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Employer identification number

41-0558175

Part I

Questions Regarding Compensation

Yes

Check the appropiate box(es) if the organization provided any of the following to or for a person listed on Form
990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a. Complete Part III to provide any relevant information regarding these items.

First-class or charter travel Housing allowance or residence for personal use

Travel for companions Payments for business use of personal residence

Tax idemnification and gross-up payments Health or social club dues or initiation fees

Discretionary spending account Personal services (e.g., maid, chauffeur, chef)

If any of the boxes on Line 1a are checked, did the organization follow a written policy regarding payment or reimbursement or provision of all of the expenses described above? If "No," complete Part III to explain .....

Did the organization require substantiation prior to reimbursing or allowing expenses incurred by all
directors, trustees, officers, including the CEO/Executive Director, regarding the items checked on Line 1a? ....

Indicate which, if any, of the following the filing organization used to establish the compensation of the
organization's CEO/Executive Director. Check all that apply. Do not check any boxes for methods
used by a related organization to establish compensation of the CEO/Executive Director, but explain in Part III.

Compensation committee Written employment contract

Independent compensation consultant Compensation survey or study

Form 990 of other organizations Approval by the board or compensation committee

During the year, did any person listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, with respect to the filing organization or a related organization:

Receive a severance payment or change-of-control payment? .............

Participate in, or receive payment from, a supplemental nonqualified retirement plan? .........

Participate in, or receive payment from, an equity-based compensation arrangement? .........

If "Yes" to any of lines 4a-c, list the persons and provide the applicable amounts for each item in Part III.

Only 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations must complete lines 5-9.

For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the revenues of:

The organization? ....................

Any related organization? .......................

If "Yes," on line 5a or 5b, describe in Part III.

For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the net earnings of:

The organization? ..................

Any related organization? ......................

If "Yes," on line 6a or 6b, describe in Part III.

For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization provide any nonfixed
payments not described in lines 5 and 6? If "Yes," describe in Part III ............

Were any amounts reported on Form 990, Part VII, paid or accured pursuant to a contract that was
subject to the initial contract exception described in Regulations section 53.4958-4(a)(3)? If "Yes," describe
in Part III ..........................

If "Yes" on line 8, did the organization also follow the rebuttable presumption procedure described in Regulations section 53.4958-6(c)? .........................

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.

Cat. No. 50053T

Schedule J (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Page 2

Part II

Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees. Use duplicate copies if additional space is needed.

For each individual whose compensation must be reported on Schedule J, report compensation from the organization on row (i) and from related organizations, described in the
instructions, on row (ii). Do not list any individuals that are not listed on Form 990, Part VII.
Note. The sum of columns (B)(i)-(iii) for each listed individual must equal the total amount of Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, applicable column (D) and (E) amounts for that individual.

(A) Name and Title		(B) Breakdown of W-2, 1099-MISC compensation, and/or 1099-NEC			(C) Retirement and other deferred compensation	(D) Nontaxable benefits	(E) Total of columns (B)(i)-(D)	(F) Compensation in column (B) reported as deferred on prior Form 990
(A) Name and Title		(i) Base compensation	(ii) Bonus & incentive compensation	(iii) Other reportable compensation	(C) Retirement and other deferred compensation	(D) Nontaxable benefits	(E) Total of columns (B)(i)-(D)
1MATTHEW O'SHEA CEO	(i) (ii)	257,221 ------------- 0	11,638 ------------- 0	11,688 ------------- 0	82,908 ------------- 0	33,409 ------------- 0	396,864 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
2VICTORIA A HERKENHOFF VP OF ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE	(i) (ii)	177,507 ------------- 0	10,474 ------------- 0	4,363 ------------- 0	60,612 ------------- 0	33,033 ------------- 0	285,989 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
3GLENN BLOMMEL MANAGER OF OPERATIONS	(i) (ii)	157,921 ------------- 0	9,310 ------------- 0	9,690 ------------- 0	54,891 ------------- 0	33,934 ------------- 0	265,746 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
4RYAN ZIERDEN MANAGER OF IT	(i) (ii)	153,705 ------------- 0	9,310 ------------- 0	730 ------------- 0	51,175 ------------- 0	16,328 ------------- 0	231,248 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
5CINDY ANDERSON MANAGER OF FINANCE	(i) (ii)	139,026 ------------- 0	9,310 ------------- 0	1,223 ------------- 0	48,198 ------------- 0	32,816 ------------- 0	230,573 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
6JAMES TURNER MANAGER OF ENGINEERING	(i) (ii)	137,619 ------------- 0	6,445 ------------- 0	2,944 ------------- 0	18,916 ------------- 0	32,782 ------------- 0	198,706 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0
7JACOB RONNING JOUNEYMAN LINEMAN	(i) (ii)	140,253 ------------- 0	2,328 ------------- 0	385 ------------- 0	11,143 ------------- 0	16,701 ------------- 0	170,810 ------------- 0	0 ------------- 0

Schedule J (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Page 3

Part III

Supplemental Information

Provide the information, explanation, or descriptions required for Part I, lines 1a, 1b, 3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7, and 8, and for Part II. Also complete this part for any additional information.

Return Reference	Explanation

Schedule J (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version:

- TIN:

SCHEDULE O
(Form 990)
(Rev. January 2025)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service

Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or 990-EZ or to provide any additional information.
Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Go to www.irs.gov/Form990 for instructions and the latest information.

OMB No. 1545-0047

Open to Public
Inspection

Name of the organization

STEARNS COOPERATIVE ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Employer identification number

41-0558175

Return Reference	Explanation
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 6	PERSONS AND ENTITIES, INCLUDING JOINT MEMBERS, RECEIVING ELECTRIC SERVICE FROM THE COOPERATIVE, HAVE VOTING RIGHTS AS REFLECTED ON THE RECORDS OF THE COOPERATIVE.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7A	MEMBERS ELECT THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS (GOVERNING BODY) BY BALLOT THROUGH ELECTION PROCESS (9 VOTING DISTRICTS).
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 7B	REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS FOR CAUSE & REINSTATE AN EXPELLED MEMBER. DISPOSAL OF MORE THAN 25% OF THE COOPERATIVE PROPERTY. MERGE OR CONSOLIDATE WITH ANOTHER ENTITY AND FILE BANKRUPTCY. A BYLAW CHANGE MUST BE APPROVED BY THE MEMBERS.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION A, LINE 8B	THE ORGANIZATION DOES NOT HAVE ANY COMMITTEES THAT HAVE AUTHORITY TO ACT ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNING BODY.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11B	THE CEO AND THE MANAGER OF FINANCE PROVIDE AND REVIEW FORM 990 WITH DIRECTORS BEFORE FILING.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 12C	STEARNS ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION'S "CONFLICT OF INTEREST" POLICY APPLIES TO DIRECTORS, OFFICERS, AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT OF THE COOPERATIVE. ANNUALLY, DIRECTORS, OFFICERS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT SIGN A GIFT STATEMENT ACKNOWLEDGING THEY UNDERSTAND THE COOPERATIVE'S GIFT POLICY AND THAT THEY HAVE NOT RECEIVED GIFTS OF SUCH NATURE. EACH YEAR, THEY ALSO SIGN A "CONFLICT OF INTEREST CERTIFICATION AND DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND DISCLOSE ANY POSSIBLE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AS DEFINED IN THE CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS REVIEWS SIGNED AND COMPLETED "GIFT STATEMENTS AND "CONFLICT OF INTEREST CERTIFICATIONS" EACH YEAR AND TAKES ACTION AS DEEMED NECESSARY BASED UPON THE POLICY. IF THERE WAS A POTENTIAL / ACTUAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST, THE PROCEEDINGS WOULD BE DOCUMENTED IN THE BOARD MINUTES. ANY NUMBER OF RESTRICTIONS MAY BE IMPOSED ON PERSONS WITH A CONFLICT OF INTEREST SUCH AS REQUIRING DIVESTITURE OF PROPERTY, OR INABILITY TO PARTICIPATE IN, DISCUSS, OR VOTE UPON DECISIONS OR ACTIONS TO WHICH THE CONFLICT IS OR MAY BE RELEVANT. VIOLATION OF THE POLICY MAY RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: TERMINATION OF DIRECTORSHIP OR EMPLOYMENT. FINALLY, ALL EMPLOYEES ARE ALSO EXPECTED TO DISCLOSE POSSIBLE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AS OUTLINED IN THE EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 15	A NATIONAL SURVEY IS USED FOR COMPARABILITY DATA. THE BOARD TAKES ACTION INDEPENDENTLY TO ESTABLISH COMPENSATION FOR THE CEO. SALARY ADJUSTMENT FORM IS SIGNED BY BOARD PRESIDENT. THE CEO DETERMINES COMPENSATION FOR KEY EMPLOYEES. A NATIONAL SURVEY IS USED FOR COMPARABILITY DATA. ALL EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION IS DETERMINED BASED UPON PERFORMANCE AND A NATIONAL SURVEY FOR COMPARABILITY DATA. CEO SIGNS OFF ON ALL WAGE ADJUSTMENTS. A SALARY FORM IS SIGNED BY EMPLOYEE SUPERVISOR. THE PROCESS DESCRIBED HERE WAS LAST COMPLETED IN 2024.
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19	GOVERNING DOCUMENTS & CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST FROM THE PERSON LISTED IN PART VI-C, LINE 20. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE PER THE PUBLIC INSPECTION RULES. ARTICLES AND BY-LAWS ARE ON OUR WEBSITE.
FORM 990, PART XI, LINE 9:	CAPITAL CREDITS RETIRED -2,243,014. PATRONAGE MARGINS ALLOCATED 6,632,331. ESTATE OR CC'S APPLIED TO BAD DEBT DISCOUNTS RETAINED 125,817.
PART XII, LINE 2C:	THE PROCESS FOR OVERSIGHT OF THE ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENT AUDIT AND SELECTION OF AN INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANT HAS NOT CHANGED.
FORM 990, PART IX, LINE 4:	THE IRS INSTRUCTIONS STATE THAT PATRONAGE MARGINS ALLOCATED BY SECTION 501(C)(12) ORGANIZATIONS TO THEIR MEMBERS SHOULD BE REPORTED ON LINE 4. THE ORGANIZATION HAS INTERPRETED PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS PAID TO MEAN PATRONAGE DIVIDENDS ALLOCATED OR TO BE ALLOCATED FOR THE CURRENT YEAR. SINCE THIS ALLOCATION IS NOT AN EXPENSE UNDER GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (GAAP), THIS HAS RESULTED IN A RECONCILING ITEM TO NET ASSETS IN PART XI, ON PAGE 13 OF THE FORM 990.

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.

Cat. No. 51056K

Schedule O (Form 990) (Rev. 1-2025)

Additional Data

Software ID:
Software Version: