Clay Electric’s Board of Trustees district meetings have concluded, setting the stage for the upcoming Board election and a leadership transition.

Trustee Kelley Smith (District 2) announced he will not seek re-election and will retire at the end of his current term. Carl Malphurs (District 4) and Jimmy Wilson (District 6) were both nominated without opposition, setting the state for the 2026 ballot:

• District 2: Cassie Nettles
• District 4: Carl Malphurs (incumbent)
• District 6: Jimmy Wilson (incumbent)

Cassie Nettles, the nominee running for Smith's seat, is the owner and operator of the East Palatka Fruit Market. She spent more than 20 years in real estate, including eight years as broker and owner of Century 21 Triton Realty, before retiring from the industry. Earlier in her career, Cassie taught middle school for 10 years.

Voting begins Jan. 26, with members electing representatives for Districts 2, 4 and 6. Members may vote online through the MyClayElectric app, by logging into their account at ClayElectric.com, or by absentee ballot. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Feb. 27. Voting closes March 9. All members who cast a vote will be entered into a drawing for bill credits, including a $4,800 grand prize, along with several additional credits.

Election results will be announced March 20. The cooperative’s annual meeting is scheduled for March 28 at Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School.