Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on the unity and strength of his community. He also outlined his priorities: safety, innovation, education, food insecurity, affordable housing, and workforce and economic development.
Public safety remains a top priority, and the city made significant progress in 2023, including a 22% reduction in homicides and improvements to its 911 Emergency Communications Department. The Fire Department made strides with eco-friendly operations and community engagement. Little Rock also intends to expand its Real Time Crime Center through its new “Eyes of the Rock” initiative, which will partner with local businesses and nonprofits to reduce crime.
Mayor Scott shared updates on educational initiatives the city is leading, including investing in literacy for their youngest residents through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Little Rock has successfully increased participation from 58% to 79% of children under five. Additionally, he is focused on workforce development efforts for students and announced the Little Rock Career Climb initiative, which will expand the Summer Youth Employment program into a year-round apprenticeship program by 2025.
The Mayor discussed efforts to address food insecurity, sharing the establishment of the Food Desert Task Force and community recommendations for a mobile grocery store. Mayor Scott also spoke about efforts to address homelessness and affordable housing. He noted that Little Rock’s homeless village is slated to open by late summer and the launch of a Holistic Housing Initiative, which will include hiring the city’s first Chief Homeless Officer.
Watch the Mayor’s full address here.
At a time when our rights, freedoms, and futures are under threat, Democratic Mayors are showing the nation what real leadership looks like.
