Kelley Smith, whose career has spanned public service and state government, has served on the co-op’s Board of Trustees since 1987. He's retired after one of the longest tenures in Clay Electric’s history.

Smith represented District 2 for nearly four decades, bringing decades of public service experience to the role and serving in each of the Board’s officer positions during his tenure. Over the years, he was part of decisions that guided the co-op through periods of growth, change and increasing demand across its service territory.

A Palatka resident, Smith has served in local, regional and state leadership roles, including time in the Florida House of Representatives. His background in land management has closely mirrored the rural communities the co-op serves, giving him a perspective shaped by both the land and the people who depend on it.

“Kelley brought a level of experience and perspective that’s hard to replace,” said GM/CEO Andy Chaff. “He understood this co-op, the communities we serve, and the decisions that come with it — and that made a difference over the years.”

Smith said his approach to Board service remained consistent throughout his tenure, rooted in the responsibility to represent members and keep their interests at the forefront.

“I always tried to keep the members in the back of my mind — how would this affect them?” he said.

That mindset, he said, is part of what kept him committed to the role for nearly four decades. Along the way, he saw the co-op evolve from a system built largely on manual processes and fieldwork into one shaped by advancing technology and growing expectations.

“It’s a labor of love," Smith said. "Once you understand what a cooperative represents, it becomes something that’s very rewarding to be part of.”

While much has changed over the years, Smith said one thing has remained consistent.

“The culture has always been to provide the best service you can at the most reasonable price,” he said.

As he steps away, Smith said the decision comes with mixed emotions. His mantra going forward is “grandkids, traveling and fishing.”

“It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve enjoyed it so much,” he said. “It’s been hard for me to let go, but I know the time has come.”