Third Candidate Enters Race For Rogers City Council Position

ROGERS -- Antonio Covington has filed for the Ward 4, Position 1 seat on the City Council being vacated by aldermen Bob Goodwin.

Covington, the third person to enter the race, said he wants to listen to residents before he makes decisions if elected.

"I always like to gather information before I decide what should be done. I would talk to constituents one-to-one to see what they think and what they want," Covington said.

Longtime friends said seeking advice and talking to others is something Covington has done most of his life.

"I worked with Antonio in Oklahoma City where we grew up. Over a time, we became very good friends. He's usually in tune with people. He listens and learns from people," Jim Hyatt said.

Ceasar Davis, another friend who has known Covington all of his life, agreed Covington is a good listener.

"He is always seeking advice. He's a strong family man. Over the years he has sought advice from me and others about various things before he decides what needs to be done," Davis said.

Covington has some areas of interest he would like to pursue if he's elected.

"I would like to see downtown improved. I know the city is doing a lot to improve the downtown area, but I'm interested in seeing that small businesses survive and thrive downtown," Covington said.

Covington adds he's interested in the entire city and wants to make sure it continues to grow and prosper.

"We are fortunate here," he said. "We have plenty of restaurants and great shopping available and that's great. It brings in a considerable amount of sales tax revenue to the city. I want to see that continue. I would also like to see some mom-and-pop restaurants and shops downtown. We have plenty of chain restaurants and stores, but small, locally owned businesses could be the heart of the downtown area."

His other issues of interest include keeping Rogers a beautiful city and seeing property rights are upheld.

"I see cars parked on the grass, overgrown yards and lots as I drive around the city," he said. "When people don't adhere to city ordinances, it can lower the property value of nearby neighbors. Most people take good care of their property, but those who don't are hurting their neighbors."

Covington moved to Rogers five years ago and fell in love with the city.

"I like the feeling of the town," he said. "It seems to be a close-knit community that welcomes newcomers to the area. When I moved here everybody was very welcoming and nice to me. I would work to help maintain that openness and great community feeling."

One other area the candidate has a particular interest in is the annual Frisco Festival.

"The Frisco Festival is great; it's a wonderful celebration downtown," Covington said. "I think the railroad history should be emphasized more than it is. The railroad built this town. It seems to me more historical information should be added to the festival. The great thing about the festival is that it draws thousands of people downtown for two days."

Hyatt and Davis agree Covington would make an excellent alderman.

"Antonio is a hardworking family man. He's a good friend, and I think he would make a great alderman because he truly cares for people and wants to do the right thing," Hyatt said.

"He would be a fantastic alderman. He's a fine Christian man and has been all of his life. He's a good husband and father, and he loves to talk to people," Davis said.

The other two announced candidates for the Ward 4, Position 1 seat are Carlos Chicas and Carrie Smith.

Chicas and Smith ran for the same seat in 2010 but lost to incumbent Goodwin.

Today is the the last day to file for a position on the council. The deadline for filing is noon.