Part of what makes South Central Power unique is that it is governed by the members it serves. As a member-owned cooperative, every member has a voice in shaping the future of the cooperative through trustee elections and participation in important cooperative matters.
That member-driven approach was on full display during South Central Power's 90th annual meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2026.
Three trustees re-elected
Prior to the meeting, members were invited to participate in the cooperative's annual trustee election through both mail-in and online voting. This year's election included trustees representing District 1, which includes primarily northern Pickaway County and portions of adjacent counties; District 8, which comprises portions of Ross and Pickaway counties, and District 13, serving primarily Monroe and Belmont counties.
Following the election, members voted to re-elect all three incumbent trustees whose districts were up for election this year. Thomas Lamb (District 1), Franklin Lucas (District 8), and Stephen Johnson (District 13) will each serve new three-year terms on South Central Power's Board of Trustees. Trustees serve as the voice of the membership, helping guide the cooperative's mission of providing affordable, reliable electric service while adding value to the lives of members.
Cooperative update
During the annual treasurer's report, members received an overview of the cooperative's financial performance and continued investments in the electric system. South Central Power remained in a strong financial position throughout 2025 while continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements that enhance reliability and service across the cooperative's territory.
Members also learned about the cooperative's continued commitment to returning value to those it serves. In 2025, South Central Power returned $11.3 million in capital credits to members and former members. Building on that success, the board of trustees approved a record-high capital credit retirement of approximately $16.8 million in 2026, which will be returned to members and former members who received service during 2005.
Rick Lemonds, president and chief executive officer, provided a business update highlighting South Central Power's continued focus on reliability, affordability, and member service. He also discussed the benefits of the cooperative business model, which prioritizes serving members rather than generating profits for shareholders.
Members heard how the cooperative's strong financial performance continues to create value in other ways as well. Because electricity production costs were lower than anticipated last year, South Central Power is returning approximately $13 million in generation savings to members through reduced generation charges on electric bills. Credits began appearing on bills in June and July and will continue at smaller amounts through the rest of the year.
South Central Power Company update
An update was also provided on the South Central Power Company Foundation and Operation Round Up program. Through the generosity of participating members who round up their monthly electric bills to the next dollar, the foundation continues to support local communities through grants, scholarships, and charitable initiatives throughout South Central’s territory. Members also voted on several amendments to South Central Power's Code of Regulations, all of which were approved.
Thank you to all the members who participated in this year's annual meeting and trustee election. Cooperative principles are built on democratic member control, and member participation helps ensure South Central Power remains focused on serving the needs of the communities it powers.