NORTH LITTLE ROCK — The four mayoral candidates in North Little Rock detailed their visions for the future of the city Thursday, speaking at a forum organized by the city chamber's Next Generation Young Professionals.
Mark Clinton, John Parker, Joe Smith and state Rep. Tracy Steele took turns answering questions during a lunchtime forum at the Bank of the Ozarks Conference Center at the chamber's headquarters.
The candidates offered opening and closing remarks and then each responded to a series of pre-submitted questions, addressing topics ranging from a withdrawn proposal to develop Big Rock Quarry to the future of the city's maritime museum to whether Park Hill establishments should sell alcohol.
On the museum, the candidates put forth different ideas. Clinton said he's "not a fan" of the facility, noting there are parts of the city lacking in "essential services" that should get funding first. Parker said he wants to see the museum ultimately funded by donations and private funds, though he noted it's "here to stay."
Smith called it a "living memorial" whose "economic impact is ten times the cost of the museum" in attracting visitors to the area. Steele said more pressing concerns should come first.
Asked about economic development, Steele said he would be able to attract companies to North Little Rock by offering incentives while Smith stressed the importance of building partnerships throughout the community.
Smith, on leave from his position as Commerce and Governmental Affairs director, said his experience in city government makes him the best candidate. He called his experience "overwhelming" compared to the other three and urged voters to talk to people he's worked with to learn his past impact.
"We've made North Little Rock a better place to live in the past 20 years," he said.
Steele pointed to his record as a state lawmaker, noting he has sponsored or co-sponsored more than 50 bills including one reducing the tax on groceries and one placing defibrillators in schools. He called for more openness from the mayor's office and said a better relationship is needed between the city and the school district.
"No city can reach its full potential when the city is suing its school district," he said, saying he would pursue a settlement in the ongoing legal dispute.
Parker likened the mayor to the CEO of a company and said his experience is critical, adding his time on the city council, planning commission and board of adjustment qualifies him for the role. Parker works as a district circulation manager for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
"I understand management," he said. "I understand how to run companies."
Mark Clinton, a risk management consultant, said North Little Rock's sales tax is too high, a new fire station is needed near the Rose City area and 25 percent more police officers should be hired. He also called for a restored focus on private property rights and toning down some aspects of government.
"Our government is supposed to be a limited government," he said during his closing remarks. "Limited means there are limits."
Mayor Patrick Hays did not run for reelection after six terms in office.