Mayor Noel Foster announced today that he will seek a fourth term as the Mayor of White Hall, Arkansas. His emphasis will remain on public safety, education, and economic development.
“These are key issues that we must emphasize to remain a successful, growing city.” he said.
Foster’s announcement comes at a time when White Hall is experiencing unprecedented economic growth, ranks as one of the safest cities in Arkansas, and is enjoying a strong benchmark performance by the White Hall School District. It is also undergoing expansion with a new $14 million, 48,000-square-foot fine arts facility and a new $6 million, 53,000-square-foot multipurpose building.
During the past five years, two major hotel brands, a large bank headquarters, a new shopping center and several restaurants, including a number of national chains, have made White Hall their home. Recently, the Jefferson Regional Medical Center announced plans for the construction of a 76-bed inpatient hospital in White Hall, and Varco-Pruden, a nationally recognized designer and fabricator of metal and steel buildings announced their relocation to White Hall. In total, the new construction projects are valued at more than $75 million.
Mayor Foster also created the Military Affairs Advisory Committee to provide focused support to the U.S. Army Pine Bluff Arsenal, which is one of the area’s largest employers. In addition, the clothing manufacturer, ReadyOne Industries, recently opened a facility on the Arsenal.
“Quality of life in White Hall is among the best in Arkansas and that attracts businesses and families,” said Foster. “We take pride in providing a safe and family friendly environment for our residents and the city government is business friendly. You can shop at specialty stores, dine at one of our growing number of restaurants, visit our city-owned water park or play sports in our upgraded city park, which now includes large and small dog parks. These amenities provide a secure and enjoyable natural setting for people of all ages.”
Foster also serves as Secretary-Treasurer of the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation, a member of the White Hall Chamber of Commerce, a member of the White Hall Police Officers Association, Chairman of the Jefferson County 911 Committee, and a member of 25 for Now Civic Organization of Jefferson County.
Mayor Foster a lifelong resident of White Hall and was elected Mayor in November 2010. He has 23 years prior experience in law enforcement including Chief of the White Hall Police Department from August 2003, to December 2010.
Also, the City Attorney Tom Owens, City Clerk-Treasurer Ellen Welch, and City Council Members David Beck, Joel Foster, Beaver Johnson, Sara Lunsford, Scott Ray, and Ken Smith have indicated they would also seek re-election for another term, Foster said. “Our leadership team at City Hall will continue to serve our community and I look forward to being part of a successful team”.
