Incumbent, newcomer have different views of Springdale

Amelia Taldo-Williams
Amelia Taldo-Williams

SPRINGDALE -- Rick Culver and Amelia Taldo-Williams view Springdale through the lenses of their experiences. Both are vying for the seat on the City Council representing Ward 3, which covers the southwestern quadrant of the city.

Culver has had the position for four years. This is Taldo-Williams' first run for public office.

Rick Culver

Age: 62

Incumbent

Residency: Has lived in Springdale 60 years

Employment: Executive director, Springdale Benevolent Foundation and Rodeo of the Ozarks

Education: Attended University of Arkansas; graduate, Springdale High School

Political experience: Four years on the Springdale City Council

Amelia Taldo-Williams

Age: 40

Residency: Lifelong resident of Springdale

Employment: Prekindergarten teacher at Young Elementary School

Education: Bachelor’s in education, University of Arkansas

Political experience: None

"I think people are most concerned about fulfilling our obligation with the bond issue, getting everything completed that was promised to the people of Springdale," Culver said. Springdale voters passed a $200 million bond issue in February that included money for roads, parks, fire stations, an animal shelter and a new city administration building.

Taldo-Williams said keeping tax revenues up and increasing them are key to Springdale's success. The revenue will provide support services -- such as police and fire safety -- for the large-scale projects underway with bond money.

Culver agreed infrastructure and police and fire safety are important as more businesses and people build in Springdale.

"We're going to have to adapt how it's going to go."

Taldo-Williams said people in her neighborhood have voiced concerns about policies of the city's Community Engagement Department. Many have received warnings or tickets for grass too high.

"What gauges if the grass is too tall," she asked. "I think Community Engagement is extremely important to see clean, well-kept neighborhoods," she continued. "But we need clear, defined policies with specific measurements."

Tald0-Williams said she would like consistency and transparency in all city departments and suggested an online resource.

"The people of Springdale deserve what they voted for. They need easy access to know how their dollars were spent," she said.

Culver said Springdale needs to be the heart of Northwest Arkansas. "It's truly right in the middle if you look on a map."

Culver said his many years of living, working and serving in Springdale bring him a broad perspective.

"It helps that I've seen changes. From what it was when I grew up to now is a complete 180."

City Council members earn $10,200 annually and serve four-year terms. The election, which is nonpartisan for municipal candidates, will be Nov. 6. Early voting begins Oct. 22.

NW News on 10/14/2018

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