Tensions Rise Over Little Rock City Manager Search
LITTLE ROCK, AR—Tensions surfaced during Tuesday’s Little Rock Board of Directors meeting as a proposal to reshape the city manager selection process emerged. Ward 7 Director B.J. Wyrick indicated plans to introduce a resolution at the board’s June 17 meeting, creating a panel of three city directors to recommend a city manager, which would effectively exclude Mayor Frank Scott Jr. from direct involvement. Mayor Scott vowed to veto the resolution if it progresses, emphasizing his intention to formally nominate a candidate for board approval next month.
The city has lacked a permanent city manager since the death of Bruce Moore in October 2023, a crucial role in Little Rock’s council-manager governance. Scott has appointed several interim managers, the latest being Fire Chief Delphone Hubbard. Speculation suggests that Scott’s preferred candidate is Dakisha “D.K.” Wesley, who previously met with city directors in February.
Wyrick raised concerns about the board’s support for Scott’s nomination, while city attorney Tom Carpenter reminded the board that Arkansas law grants the mayor the authority to appoint a city manager, pending board confirmation.
Another pressing issue discussed was the struggling Metropolitan Housing Alliance (MHA), which mishandled federal housing programs and faces foreclosure on two apartment complexes vital to over 170 residents. The board is expected to vote on a $7.5 million loan to help the MHA avert foreclosure and fund repairs. The conditions would mandate the MHA relinquish all interests in the Madison Heights properties and provide audited financial records to secure city assistance.
Mayor Scott encouraged board action to support the MHA as potential foreclosure looms. The board’s decisions next week could impact both local governance and the stability of affordable housing in Little Rock.
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