I hope this message finds you well and thriving! It’s been an exciting quarter for the Arkansas Municipal League, and I’m thrilled to share the highlights of our recent Annual Planning Meeting. As always, our work continues to be both a serious and rewarding endeavor, but I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to add a bit of humor to our journey:

City council wanted to demolish the local clown museum.
They couldn’t because it’s a “hysterical landmark.”

I’m pleased to report that the Annual Planning Meeting was not only a success, it was also a shining example of what can happen when you put the League staff, officers, executive committee, advisory council chairs, board members and a bunch of past presidents in one room with caffeine, snacks and an agenda. We gathered representatives from cities large and small across the state, and despite my lame attempt at humor we accomplished some serious work. We discussed key legislative priorities including local government autonomy and strategies for handling the unexpected joys of municipal budgeting. But in true Arkansas fashion, we also made sure to keep things light. After all, what is government without a bit of humor and comradery?

A big thank you to Mayor George McGill in Fort Smith for sharing his great city for the August meeting. I was informed the hotel accommodations were excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed our two evening excursions to the U.S. Marshals Museum and dinner at StoneHouse at Chaffee Crossing. Back in Greenwood, I hope everyone enjoyed our visit to the historical district followed by a tour of the 12-time state champion Greenwood Bulldogs training facility, which was followed by an inspirational visit with Greenwood Schools Superintendent John Ciesla and Head Football Coach and Athletic Director Chris Young. Thank you to our dinner sponsors JTS Financial and VC3 along with entertainment sponsors Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and Farmers Bank. I hope all attendees enjoyed their time in our fair city and truly grasped the spirit of our slogan: “Feels like home.”

I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank my executive assistant Danielle Smith for the tremendous effort you put into planning and preparing for our recent meeting. Your attention to detail, clear organization and thoughtful approach made a noticeable difference—and it truly showed.

Looking ahead, we are committed to ensuring that the fruits of our planning meeting translate into tangible action. We’ll continue working closely with state legislators to advocate for the needs of Arkansas cities. And while we plan, we’ll make sure that the humor doesn’t fade, because as much as we love what we do, if we don’t find joy in it, what’s the point?

I encourage you to attend the next regional meeting on November 14 in Jonesboro! These gatherings are a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate and stay informed on the latest developments impacting our region. Please come and join the conversation. These meetings are your chance to share your input, hear from regional leaders and engage with peers who are passionate about sharing the future of our communities.

Thank you to everyone who attended our recent meetings in Cave Springs, Russellville and Stuttgart. They were well attended and full of meaningful discussion, a great sign of the momentum we’re building together. Let’s keep that energy going in Jonesboro!

And speaking of future meetings, registration is now open for the Called to Serve ’26, the League’s 2026 Winter Conference, January 14-16 in Little Rock. Why you should attend:

Inspiring speakers
Professional development
Networking opportunities
Fresh perspectives

Please know that I am still in disbelief that I serve as your League president. I have already had the honor of visiting a few of our great cities. Recently on our way to a Destination Downtown Conference in El Dorado, we had the pleasure of visiting with Mayor John McAnally of Amity to hear of his city’s progress and to offer any assistance and support I could. Mayor Paul Choate of El Dorado was so kind and offered his generous hospitality as well. My goal of visiting as many of you as possible in your communities is still my plan, even without the help of the “AML Helicopter!” And my promise of sharing your success stories is a priority of mine. So please feel free to reach out to me. I continue to remember you all in my prayers daily.

Until next time, stay strong, stay funny, stay connected and stay committed to making our communities even better.