Line Outside Corn Palace
Friday | October 3, 2025

Roughly 1,000 people, including 508 registered members and guests, attended Central Electric’s 25th annual meeting on Sept. 9, at the Corn Palace.

The annual meeting is more than just an event, it’s a key part of how cooperatives operate. Because Central Electric is member-owned, the meeting gives you a chance to hear directly from your board and management about the health of your cooperative and stay informed about what’s ahead. It’s one of the ways we ensure transparency and accountability to you, the people we serve.

Board President Duane Wolbrink and General Manager Ken Schlimgen shared updates on cooperative finances
and discussed expected rate changes in 2026.

Attendees were also informed that Schlimgen will retire next summer after 41 years of service to the cooperative. Director Todd Van Walleghen decided not to run for reelection this year, and Jeremy White now represents Sanborn County on the board of directors.

Thank you to all of our members who took time out of their day to join us. Your participation is what keeps our cooperative strong, resilient and member-focused.