Gravette's mayoral candidates respond

GRAVETTE - Following are brief summaries of answers to questions during the Mayoral Forum held last week. The summaries are not detailed and some are longer and more detailed than others depending upon answers provided.

Mike von Ree: Concerning the proposed sewer improvement for the city suggested that a sales tax would help finance the bond payment. Concerning the annexation project, von Ree said the county failed to properly notify property owners. Had praise for the fire and police departments for their good service. City will need to make necessary cuts if the revenue falls short of needs. Will work with the state and Chamber of Commerce to stimulate business growth. Concerning a full-time mayor, said he is five minutes away from City Hall. Stated Gravette people are its greatest asset and that he will work to make the town better.

Ken Foxx expressed concern about the engineers and their proposals for the proposed sewer project, suggested contacting the engineers with the Environmental Protection Agency. Opposes the annexation plan at this time but said the city mustgrow. Said police and fire departments must be supported and that the school is the heart and soul of the community and is a great positive. To meet revenue shortfalls the city must reinvent its priorities. Must cooperate with the Chamber of Commerce by having a one-person contact plan for promotion. Would be a full-time mayor since he has time, experience and vision. Related that Gravette is great because of its people, churches, school and will work to make it even better.

Byron Warren: Said the sewer project is too expensive and that he has worked many months in an effort to find a better solution, not pleased with the engineers. Said the annexation issue has been a three year project. Warns of possible Bella Vista encroachment. That we need to get a handle on area development. Said more funding is needed for fire and police departments, which always need support. Must focus on city needs rather than wants. Work together with Chamber of Commerce in promoting city and proposed Chamber office in City office in City Hall. Said having city personnel as a team is important and they all need to be on the same page. Said t hat it is the citizens who made up thetown and their support is important and mentioned the several hundred who attended the grand opening at Can-Do Hardware. Being able to listen and respond to citizens’ needs is a major part of the job as mayor. That he will listen.

Deana Deming: Proposes seeking state grants to help finance sewer project. She is opposed to the annexation proposal. Supports the police and fire departments and stresses the importance of volunteers working with and for the city. Said budget cuts will be required when there is a shortfall of revenue. Will work to stimulate and improve the business community. Concerning full time mayor, said she will be there 40 hours a week in the office. Said school is a great selling point for the community. Said she is a hard worker and will work to make the town what it should be.

News, Pages 16 on 10/27/2010