As the only candidate running for District #8, Richard Talbert of Wayne City was elected as the newest Board Member at the Annual Meeting on June 6. Richard or "Rich" resides at 713 County Road 1000 N with his wife Judy. Judy retired from Wayne-White Electric after 32 years of service in January of 2024.
Retired after 36 years in the banking industry as Vice President and Loan Officer, Rich currently farms grain and livestock, as well as running a small trucking operation.
Rich has two children, Jacob and wife Jenna Talbert and Emma and Husband Joseph Erwin, all of Wayne City. He also has 5 grandchildren.
Following an Associate's Degree from Rend Lake College, Rich completed a Bachelor's Degree in Agribusiness Economics from Southern Illinois University. He has served on the Illinois Banker Association Ag Advisory Committee, Greater Wabash Regional Planning Commission Board, Wayne City High School Scholarship Foundation as Secretary, Starting at Home Not-for-Profit Board as Secretary, and was the former Berry Township Trustee for 25 years.
Rich replaces long-time Director Steve Becker in District #8 after Steve made the decision not to run for the Board for another term. We thank Steve for his many years of dedicated service to Wayne-White Electric. We will miss you, Steve!