Clay County Electric office re-opens

Clay County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) members came out Thursday, Sept. 2, to support the re-opening of the 2650 Highway 49 office during a special open house event.

The celebration took place in recognition of the office's return after it was closed for four and-a-half years. Visitors to the office, which is located between Rector and Greenway to serve all Clay County Electric customers, were able to meet with employees Thursday, as well as take part in delicious refreshments.

"This open house is a way for us to greet our members in this area and let them know this office has re-opened," CCEC communications and media representative Tanya Tucker said.

According to Tucker, the decision to re-open the office was made with local customers in mind.

"Having this office open and available will be a convenient alternative for our members in the surrounding towns and communities. It will give them another option for paying bills or getting assistance."

During the period of time the office was closed, many local CCEC members made payments at Liberty Bank or would mail in their bills. Most technical questions and responses were handled by the Corning office.

The office's return also has allowed members to see some familiar faces.

Customer service representative Lou Robinson has been employed by Clay County Electric for more than 22 years. Most of that time has been spent at the Highway 49 office, where she has greeted and assisted countless customers. While the office was closed, Robinson worked at the Corning site, making the commute from her Rector home.

If local customers are happy to see Robinson and the office return, they can rest assured the feeling is mutual.

"I'm very happy to be back here," Robinson said. "I'm just tickled to be back home with all the people I've always worked with and known. Over the years, I've had a lot of good memories of this office and the people who come in."

Fred Bowers is the serviceman on call for this area. He will operate out of the Highway 49 office as well.

Built in 1958, the office has been a part of the local surroundings for over 50 years. The office is a familiar part of the landscape, catching the eyes of many as they travel along Highway 49.

The office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Persons may call the office at (870) 522-3826 during business hours.

Clay County Electric Cooperative serves more than 8,400 members throughout Clay, Greene and Randolph counties in Arkansas and Butler, Ripley, and Oregon counties in Missouri. Founded in 1938, the cooperative currently operates two full-service offices in Corning and Pocahontas.

Those who want more information may visit www.claycountyelectric.com.