Council’s goals: More industry, infrastructure improvements
RUSSELLVILLE — Mayor David Grissom and the Russellville City Council are preparing to begin new four-year terms Nov. 3, with a focus ongrowth,infrastructure and continuing to serve the needs of the city.
Grissom, beginning his fourth term, said his goals include completing the new Norris Library and media center and working to recruit new businesses while supporting existing industries.
He said job creation will remain a top priority.
Grissom also listed infrastructure as a key focus, from paving projects to maintaining and improving equipment for the city’s Police, Fire and Street departments.
He said he plans to continue promoting the downtown district and pursuing grant opportunities with city, county, state and federal leaders.
Councilman David Palmer, beginning his fourth term representing District 1, said his focus is on maintaining quality of life for residents and completing major projects already underway.
He pointed to the city’s ongoing paving program. He noted that the city previously purchased its own paving equipment.
“We now have the ability to do street work and paving without depending on others outside our control,” Palmer said. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to see that through.”
Palmer also highlighted investments in the Police and Fire departments, including new equipment and grant funding to support both. He said he is committed to continuing that work.
Councilman Darren Woodruff, re-elected to represent District 2, said transparency in government and responsible spending of taxpayers’ funds are his main goals.
“My priorities are to continue fighting corruption in our city and protecting our citizens from fraud and wasteful spending,” Woodruff said. “I will also continue to make sure District 2 has the voice it deserves that was silent too long in local government.”
He added that he wants to see the former College Avenue school site used for something constructive.
Woodruff also pointed to economic development and infrastructure as areas of unfinished business.
Councilman Gary Cummings, who will begin his fifth term representing District 3, said he wants to continue supporting ongoing projects.
“I just want to keep things moving,” Cummings said. “Hopefully, we can keep our paving projects going, get the library completed, and see a few other things come in, maybe even more industry.”
Lonnie Freeman, newly elected to represent District 4, said he wants to approach his role with an open mind and a focus on teamwork.
“I’m a learner. I listen. I try to extract what is factual and make decisions from there,” Freeman said. “I want people to know we’re for the city and not trying to push our own agenda. Whatever we do should be for the good of the whole city, not just certain areas.”
Freeman said he intends to be approachable and straightforward with constituents.
“I take seriously what I’m doing. I am approachable. I can take criticism — I don’t like it, but I can take it,” he said. “If I stand for something I believe in and it causes me to be at odds with somebody, that’s the way it is, but it doesn’t mean compromise can’t happen.”
Councilman Jamie Harris, beginning his fourth term representing District 5, said he plans to continue building on ongoing projects.
“I want to keep District 5 in good shape and keep moving the city of Russellville forward,” Harris said. “My goal is to continue doing a good job and working on the things already underway.”
All terms begin Nov. 3.
