The Candidates
Elm Springs City Council
Editor’s note: Candidates for the only competitive Elm Springs City Council race, Ward 3, Position 1, were asked two questions. Their answers were edited for length and clarity. The election is Nov. 6.
Dorothy Blythe
Age: 81
Residency: Elm Springs, since 1965
Family: Husband, Ralph; two sons and one daughter, all of Springdale
Employment: Retired; ran a poultry business for many years; now does some substitute teaching
Education: Attended Arkansas Tech University, went to Bentonville High School, 1949
Military Experience: None
Political Experience: None
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your city in the next two years?
Growth. The city of Elm Springs is the oldest town in Northwest Arkansas. Elm Springs still maintains the same conveniences of a city, which is close to three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Other challenges are roads and infrastructure along with annexation.
How would you deal with those challenges?
Planning Commission and City Council can deal with these challenges by preserving the feel of a small-town community while pursuing growth and financial stability. These can be accomplished by holding on to the foundation and heritage of our community.
Harold Douthit
Age: 62
Residency: Elm Springs, since 1999
Family: Wife of 20 years, Cynthia Douthit; one son, one daughter.
Employment: Cattle farmer; retired from Springdale Police Department in 1989 after 10 years in law enforcement
Education: Springdale High School, 1967
Military Experience: Honorably discharged from Army in 1968 as a specialist after one year of active duty; spent about eight years with National Guard, finishing as section chief
Political Experience: None.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing your city in the next two years?
Our sewage disposal, city services. Plans for future growth.
How would you deal with those challenges?
I would research possible grants, refinancing of debt on current sewage STEP system.