A board of nine elected Trustees is responsible for the overall direction of the business and affairs of the Benton Rural Electric Association, through adoption of policies, budgets, and direction to the General Manager. Trustees are elected by the members of their respective district within the Benton REA service area and serve for a term of three years. The Benton REA service area has been divided into nine districts to allow for equal representation of its members. To be nominated as a Trustee, the member must have resided for at least one year within the district making the nomination. A Trustee may not hold any financial interest in selling electric energy or supplies to the Association. In addition, a Trustee may not be an incumbent or candidate for any elected public office where salaries are paid.