House Joint Resolution 597 honors Fort Loudoun Electric Cooperative (FLEC) on its eighty-fifth anniversary, recognizing its significant contributions to the prosperity and opportunity of East Tennessee residents. Established in the 1940s, FLEC emerged from a collective effort by rural citizens in Blount, Loudon, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe, and Roane counties to provide electricity to areas that previously lacked this essential resource. Over the years, FLEC has grown from serving 364 members with thirty miles of electric lines to over 36,350 members across more than 3,100 miles of distribution lines, all while maintaining rates that are thirty-seven percent below the national average.

The resolution acknowledges FLEC's commitment to delivering quality electric service as a private, nonprofit organization owned by its members. It highlights the cooperative's collaboration with other utilities and the Tennessee Valley Authority to ensure efficient service delivery. FLEC's service area now spans a 750 square-mile territory, which includes parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Forest, reflecting its dedication to meeting the energy and economic needs of the community. The resolution expresses gratitude to FLEC's board of directors, management, and employees for their ongoing efforts in serving the East Tennessee community.