Political experience is not a prerequisite for serving on the Fayetteville City Council. Having a passion for Fayetteville and understanding its peculiarities, however, is a must.
Rhonda Adams says she loves this city, and with 32 years experience working for the University of Arkansas under her belt, she thinks she’s as qualified as anyone to help lead Ward 4.
“I believe my experience as assistant dean at the law school has provided me with the skills that can be very valuable on the city council,” said Adams. “I am a good listener, a good advocate, a good manager of funds, and I have managed a staff and a budget. I understand the importance of our tax-payer dollars.”
Adams last week announced her candidacy for the Ward 4, Position 1 seat that is up for grabs. The position is anyone’s for the taking now that eight-year alderwoman Shirley Lucas is stepping down. Sarah Lewis holds the Position 2 seat.
“My advice for someone running for the Ward 4 position,” Lewis told us, “is to pound the pavement! Going door-to-door is very important in a race for a position such as this.”
Although the official filing date for the November 2 election isn’t for another month, Adams says she’s as ready as she’ll ever be to take Lewis’ advice.
“My team and I are already planning to go door-to-door and ask our neighbors in Ward 4 what they want,” said Adams. “I hope they believe me when I say I will listen to them and will do my best to represent our Ward.”
Helping to develop more “complete streets” that provide safety and efficiency for pedestrians, motorists and bikers is one of Adams’ goals if elected. That, and improving the city’s trails. “We have some very good things going and our trails system is a giant step forward,” she said. “I want to be a part of continuing the efforts and hope to be a part of making it even better for our citizens.”
As reported in Tuesday’s Northwest Arkansas Times, retired Army Green Beret James “Jim” Laubler has set up a website expressing interest in the position, but when contacted, he told us, “As of right now, I see no need to run. Rhonda seems like a decent person.”
