SPRINGDALE — A City Council candidate said his youth is a plus in helping the city.
“I think it will help me bring a different viewpoint to the council,” said Christopher Pryor. “The council has been the same people for a long time. It needs to have a wider range of people.”
Pryor, 24, is in a four-person race for the Ward 3, Position 2, seat held by incumbent Jeff Watson, who is running for re-election. Dan Runge and Teresa Powers have also filed for the seat.
Position 2 in each of four Springdale council wards is up for election on Nov. 6. Voters will also choose between candidates for mayor and city clerk.
Candidates must live in the ward they represent but are elected by the entire city. They are all elected to four-year terms and receive $850 per month in pay. Filing began July 27 and will end at noon today.
Pryor said he may be young, but he does have some experiences that would make him a good alderman.
“I have studied overseas,” Pryor said. “I’m a foreign language major and speak French and German. I’ve seen how cities in other countries do things. What works could help us here.”
Pryor said he will take input from anyone to make council decisions.
“I’m a good listener,” Pryor said. “I have to learn what people’s positions are. I wouldn’t be on the council with just my own objectives. I have to represent all the residents as well.”
Pryor said he would like to see downtown become a vital part of the city again. He supports the Razorback Greenway and the construction of the Don Tyson Parkway interchange on Interstate 540, he said.
“We have to attract new businesses to the city,” Pryor said. “That is the only way we can keep improve it.”
Pryor said his involvement with the city could bring other young people to city government.
“I think it is important to become involved with government when you are young,” Pryor said. “There is not a lot of young people who do that and I hope I can change it.”
Profile
Christopher Pryor
Springdale City Council
Ward 3, Position 2
Age: 24
Residency: Springdale for his entire life
Family: Single
Employment: Student at University of Arkansas
Education: Scheduled to graduate in December from University of Arkansas. Graduated from Springdale High School in 2006.
Military Experience: None
Political Experience: None