Timing
We will hold two virtual roundtables on Thursday, May 21 and Thursday, June 4.
If you are interested in joining us at APPA's offices for an in-person event, learn more about our Public Communications Spring Issues Roundtable!
Registration
Registration is free and only open to APPA members who work for a utility, state association, or joint action agency.
Questions?
Agenda
Thursday, May 21, 2026
1-3 p.m. ET
| 1-1:15 p.m. | Welcome and Introductions |
| 1:15-1:30 p.m. | APPA Advocacy UpdateHear the latest on what’s happening inside the Beltway pertaining to public power and its advocacy priorities. |
| 1:30-2 p.m. | Internal CommunicationsTechnology has made it easy for communicators to reach their organization’s workforce with just a few keystrokes. But are these messages getting read, and are calls to action being heeded? In this session, we’ll share best practices for breaking through the noise to deliver critical messages to a dispersed workforce. |
| 2-2:30 p.m. | Practical Applications of Artificial Intelligence ToolsThis collaborative session will explore the practical application of AI tools within communications workflows. We’ll share insights on which AI solutions have proven most valuable, explore organizational policies and best practices that guide responsible implementation, and discuss strategies for properly crediting AI tools while addressing potential legal considerations. Come prepared to exchange experiences, ask questions, and perhaps learn about a new tool you can start using today. |
| 2:30-3 p.m. | Open Discussion/Wild Card TopicsYou’re in a safe space. Join your fellow public power communicators for an open discussion on what’s keeping you up at night, what successes you are celebrating… or anything else that may be on your mind. |
Wednesday, June 4, 2026
1-3 p.m. ET
| 1-1:15 p.m. | Welcome and Introductions |
| 1:15-1:30 p.m. | APPA Advocacy UpdateHear the latest on what’s happening inside the Beltway pertaining to public power and its advocacy priorities. |
| 1:30-2 p.m. | Rate CommunicationsAffordable service is fundamental to the public power business model, making effective rate communications essential for customer trust and understanding. This session will explore strategies for differentiating costs and rates, crafting transparent messages about rate increases, and sharing examples of approaches that have successfully resonated with customers. |
| 2-2:30 p.m. | Budgeting for SuccessBudget constraints are frequently the main challenge for communicators in public power. In this session, participants will discuss ways to develop an annual spending plan and strategies to advocate for sufficient funding each year. |
| 2:30-3 p.m. | Open Discussion/Wild Card TopicsYou’re in a safe space. Join your fellow public power communicators for an open discussion on what’s keeping you up at night, what successes you are celebrating… or anything else that may be on your mind. |
