Grayson Collin News
Fathers day weekend and the weekend following, a group of storms of mass destruction came across both Grayson and Collin counties on back to back weekends destroying approximately 80 poles and leaving almost 40,000 members without power.
This group of storms brought heavy rotation, 100 mph of straight-line winds and thousands of lightning strikes. Thus leaving mutilated vegetation, broken poles, poles on fire, broken and downed power lines and countless pieces of debris across the Grayson-Collin Electric service area. The storm caused us to have to rebuild several sections of line – each taking several hours to repair and rebuild. We received mutual aid from two electric cooperatives in the area, seven linemen from United Electric Cooperative as well as four linemen from CoServ. We called in 5 contract linemen crews composed of five to six linemen each from both Techline and Linetec. We also had crews from Vaquero Underground Services who assist us daily. Apex Tree trimming service sent 15 tree trimming crews to help clear roads and lines of vegetations so the linemen could work behind them to restore power. The tree trimming crews were composed of three-to-six-man crews. Although we had prepared to our best abilities and have tree trimming crews who work daily throughout our service area – Mother Nature left the two counties mangled in destruction. Crews worked around the clock for nearly 65 hours working to restore power. As we look back on what CEO/General Manager David McGinnis is calling one of the worst storms in his career, we understand the frustration of being without service for many hours – but believe we serve some of the best members in the State and we will continue to provide the best possible service at the least possible cost. As always, we are here for you, 24 hours and 7 days a week – 365 days a year – we strive to serve you, our members – to our best ability.
Recent News
Government in Action Youth Tour Contest
Each year, GCEC proudly sponsors outstanding high school students for the Texas Electric Cooperatives Government in Action Youth Tour—a unique and immersive trip to Washington, D.C. This program offers young leaders the opportunity to experience the nation’s capital like never before. Participants will meet their Legislators, explore historic landmarks, and gain valuable insights into government, history, and the role of electric cooperatives.
This year’s Youth Tour is scheduled for June 15–23, 2025, with the following travel itinerary:
- June 15: Arrive in Austin, TX
- June 16: Fly to Washington, D.C.
- June 22: Return flight to Austin
- June 23: Drive home
Past participants often say the most memorable part of the Youth Tour is the lifelong friendships they form along the way. Traveling with other motivated, like-minded students from Texas, they create meaningful bonds through shared experiences and exciting adventures. These connections, along with the unique opportunities the trip offers, make it truly unforgettable.
GCEC covers all travel, meal, and lodging expenses—valued at over $4,000—allowing students to focus entirely on making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime journey. Participants only need to budget for snacks, souvenirs, and personal items. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your horizons and engage with history firsthand. To learn more about the Youth Tour and apply, visit gcec.net/youth-tour.
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Information for reporting your outage on the App
We have learned that when our members go to report an outage on our app, they have run into an issue. Members have received a message stating “There are no other account available on your service to report an outage.” This response happens because your meter has already notified our office that your home is without power. If you have any other accounts, like a barn or another building, that is currently not listed in the outage, it will allow you to select and report those meters as “out”. We want to assure you that though this can be a frustrating response – it just means that our office is aware of your outage, allowing us to work towards restoration as quickly and safely as possible. We have someone at our office 24/7 all year round and will be here to field your calls and help anyway we can.
903-482-7100
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