Little Rock, Arkansas – The Little Rock City Board of Directors convened to review the proposed 2025 city budget; however, the motion to move it forward for a second reading did not succeed.
The proposed budget allocates resources for economic development, essential city services, infrastructure improvements, and a 1.75% salary increase for full-time, non-uniformed city employees.
The budget designates $890,000 for public safety equipment and technology, while also providing funding for three new roles aimed at tackling the city’s homeless issue. This includes the hiring of two engagement specialists and a data analyst.
Extra funding has been allocated for affordable housing initiatives and the Little Rock Zoo.
The initial reading of the budget resulted in a tie vote, with four members supporting it and four opposing it.
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. requested that board members who opposed the budget provide a public explanation for their votes.
“I believe we are not prepared to proceed with the budget vote.” “There has been no public discussion regarding this matter,” stated City Director Joan Adcock, a veteran member of the board.
The mayor stated that several weeks were allocated for discussions regarding the budget.
“Just curious, does the public need to discuss it more than the amount of time we have done before? “This year is just like last year,” Scott remarked.
The meeting wrapped up following the conclusion of an executive session.
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. stated that special meetings must be convened for the budget to be approved.
Currently, there are no plans for a special meeting to take place.
