Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced a new round of appointments to several key boards and commissions, naming Arkansans from across the state to positions that will help guide policy in areas ranging from natural heritage to judicial discipline and library services.
The appointments include individuals filling vacant terms, as well as new members selected to serve in newly created positions. Sanders emphasized the importance of strong leadership in these roles, noting that the work of these boards directly impacts communities throughout Arkansas. “These appointments reflect my commitment to putting capable and dedicated Arkansans in positions where they can serve their state and help improve the lives of our citizens,” Governor Sanders said.
Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission
Three individuals were selected to serve on the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission, which works to protect and manage the state’s natural areas. Landon Downing of Batesville was appointed to fulfill the remaining term of Deborah Smith, with a term ending January 14, 2034. JD Neeley of Camden will take the seat previously held by Robert Bevis, serving until January 14, 2033. Dennis Nelms of Fayetteville was appointed to the position left vacant by Ellen Turner, with his term set to expire January 14, 2032.
Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board
The governor also named eight individuals to the Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board, which regulates towing and recovery operations statewide. The appointments establish several new positions within the board. Brad Bohannan of Benton and Pete Roberts of Grapevine will serve terms expiring July 1, 2028. Matt Ross of Conway and Tom Brown of North Little Rock were each appointed to terms ending July 1, 2026. Clay Sanders of North Little Rock, Toby Harrington of Greenbrier, and Joseph Spadoni of White Hall will serve until July 1, 2027. Glynn Riels of Hamburg will serve until July 1, 2028.
By filling these positions, the board gains a full slate of members tasked with ensuring fair practices in the towing and recovery industry, an area that directly affects consumers and businesses across the state.
Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission
Jason Ramsey of Russellville was selected to serve on the Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission. His appointment fulfills the unexpired term of John Wells and runs through June 30, 2031. The commission oversees the conduct of judges and judicial officers, an essential role in maintaining accountability and integrity within the state’s judicial system.
State Library Board
Six individuals were also named to the State Library Board, which oversees the state library system and its programs. The new appointees include Jack Fortner of Yellville, Lynlee McMillan of Benton, Sydney McKenzie of Rogers, Emmaline Pilkington of Knoxville, Annette Bailey of Mountain Home, and Clay Goff of Beebe. Each term expires pursuant to law, as is standard for the board.
The appointments expand the board’s representation and bring in a diverse group of members from across Arkansas to guide library services, literacy initiatives, and statewide information programs.
Looking Ahead
Governor Sanders said the appointees reflect a broad cross-section of Arkansas, with each person chosen for their experience, community involvement, and ability to contribute to the work of their respective boards. “From protecting our natural resources to ensuring fair regulation and expanding library access, these individuals will play an important role in shaping the future of our state,” she said.
The appointments come as part of an ongoing effort by the governor’s office to fill key positions across the state with leaders prepared to serve in both regulatory and advisory capacities. Many of the terms extend several years into the future, ensuring continuity and stability in these critical areas of governance.
