Tullahoma names Daryl Welch to Tullahoma Utility Authority board

Tullahoma’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen appointed Daryl Welch to the Tullahoma Utility Authority (TUA) board after a paper-ballot vote during the board’s regular meeting.

The board selected Welch to fill a five-year term ending Aug. 31, 2030. The vote was held by written ballot after the council heard brief statements from six applicants who sought the seat.

Several candidates described their experience and reasons for seeking the post. Bob (Robert) Lindeman, a former TUA board member and a graduate electrical engineer, said, “I believe that board members of the TUA have 3 main responsibilities,” and described technical and customer-service expertise he would bring. Steve Cope, who described long service on local boards and national utility groups, emphasized security and reliability concerns. Ray Knowles and Daryl Welch also summarized backgrounds in engineering, management and local civic involvement. Welch introduced himself to the board as: “My name is Daryl Welch, and I reside at 207 Blue Creek Landing.”

During nominations, aldermen put forward three candidates; the board then cast ballots. The recorded votes were: Alderman Wilson, Alderman Toma, Alderman Mathis, Alderman Glick and Mayor Lynn Seaborn for Daryl Welch; Alderman Byrd for Steve Cope; and Alderman McGee for Robert Lindeman. Welch received a majority and was declared appointed.

The new appointment replaces a retiring member and the TUA board will continue to advise city staff on electric, water and wastewater policy, rate issues and capital planning.

The council did not record a formal motion author name in the minutes; the appointment was made by ballot under the city’s standard appointment process and will be reflected in TUA records.