White Hall Mayor Noel Foster announced on Wednesday that he will retire at the end of this year, marking a very successful 16 year run as the city’s chief executive. In his announcement, Foster said he wants to spend time with his family and work with his brother. He plans to go into his family’s business, Foster Heavy Duty Services of White Hall.
Foster was only the third Mayor in the city’s history, with White Hall incorporating in 1964. Prior to running for Mayor, Foster was the city’s Police Chief from 2003 until late 2010.
While the previous two Mayors, Jack Moody and James Morgan both left their mark, what Foster has been able to accomplish was nothing short of remarkable. During his tenure, he saw a sustained period of economic development, especially on the commercial corridor on Sheridan Road.
His last act though, may have the biggest impact, as he was able to work with the U.S. Army to secure a $1.3 billion dollar addition to the Pine Bluff Arsenal campus, which will bring as many as 200 high skilled jobs to the area.
