As an electric cooperative, Benton REA operates on a not-for-profit basis and each member has a vote in how we do business. There are more than 75 million people in the United States of America who are members of cooperatives. Cooperatives encourage people to help themselves by following seven cooperative principles. Its the way we have been serving our members since 1937. Its The Cooperative Way! The Benton Rural Electric Association is a not for profit electric cooperative, owned by those we serve. Benton REA members elect nine board members who represent their interest in terms of policies, the direction of the utility, and actions taken by the Association. Because Benton REA is a not-for-profit cooperative, owned by our members, any profits above cost belong to our members. These net margins that remain, after all expenses, are returned to our members who paid their electric bills. These funds are called capital credits. When sufficient cash reserves are on hand the trustees can authorize a refund of capital credits accrued to the people who were members of the Association during the year authorized for refund. In 2012, Benton REA is returning about $500,000 to members. To date, more than $9 million has been returned to our members. Founded April 1937 Energized May 1938 Total Accounts as of the end of 2011: 15,053 Customer per Mile of Line: 6.76