I am so honored, humbled and excited to be the 2026-2027 president of the Arkansas Municipal League. I will work tirelessly to represent all the cities and towns in our wonderful state. As the first city clerk to hold this position since the 1950s and the first person from Beebe, I take this responsibility seriously, and I look forward to visiting with all of you. Remember, I enjoy a good festival and love me some funnel cakes.

When I look back on our 92nd Annual Convention, all I can say is what a great week. The education that we offered was wonderful, and I appreciate that every attendee took away something that they can share with their cities and towns to help them move forward. I loved Jason Curry’s speech on “finish empty every day.” This really hits home with me; I have prioritized items that I need to work on. The League staff did an outstanding job putting together a fun, educational Convention.

My theme for the year is moving cities and towns forward while preserving the past through education, service and commitment. This year, I want to encourage everyone to attend training. Whether in person or in the League’s ACE Hub, education is so important for all city officials and employees. Service is an important part of our job. We fulfill this duty because we believe in serving our communities. As city officials, we are committed to doing the best job we can for the citizens that we serve.

The Arkansas Legislature in 2025 enacted Act 671, which requires all municipal treasurers to complete a mandatory eight-hour training course. The League has stepped up and developed the training that we need to complete before December 31. If you were not able to attend the training at the June Convention, please check out the League website under the Resources & Education tab at www.arml.org. There are many opportunities both in person and online to receive this training. I also encourage mayors, council members and employees that work with the treasurers to attend the training so that everyone is on the same page.

I have always loved the League’s slogan, Great Cities Make a Great State. I believe we have the greatest cities and towns in the nation and am honored to be a part of the representation of Arkansas. As League president, I will work with our League staff, the city officials and our legislature to continue keeping this a wonderful state.

I am a phone call (501-858-9815) or email (cwestergren@beebeark.gov) away and here to help. Please reach out with any concerns, questions or suggestions you may have. We are going to have a great year!

Sincerely,