Spring 2025, Vol. 08, No. 01 . A Publication of the North Little Rock Mayor's Office
Iam so proud of all our City has accomplished in 2024. We opened the Blaze Fire Station in the east part of our city and began constructing a new Central Fire Station in Mid City, which will replace the old Central Fire Station, built in 1962. Our police department opened the Real Time Crime Center to help officers work more efficiently. So many exciting things are happening in all areas of our city.
The new Baptist Health Clinic Rose City opened in September, and in October, we unveiled the 31,000-square-foot North Little Rock Event Center, which will be built in downtown North Little Rock adjacent to Simmons Arena. Economic development continues to thrive in all parts of our city, and new businesses continue to choose North Little Rock as their home! Today’s Power opened a Solar Farm, providing our city with two alternative power forms: solar and water!
I am proud of all our city employees’ dedication and hard work. We share a special spirit of community here in North Little Rock. I am honored to be your Mayor and am excited about 2025 and the next four years.
Publisher: Mayor Terry C. Hartwick Editor:
The City of North Little Rock recently held an Open House and Ribbon Cutting at the North Little Rock Animal Shelter. The new addition to the shelter includes an adoption and event room.
Elected Officials Take Oath
Mayor Terry C. Hartwick was sworn in for his third term in January. Hartwick served his first term from 1984 to 1989 and was elected to his second term in December 2020.
“Together, we have accomplished so much and made North Little Rock an even better place to live, work, and play. I am excited about the next four years and everything we will complete,” said Hartwick. Also sworn in were current North Little Rock City Council members Nathan Hamilton
- Ward 1, Ron Harris - Ward 3, and longtime City Clerk and Treasurer Diane Whitbey. North Little Rock City Council’s new members sworn in are Nicole Hart - Ward 2 and Scott Fowler
- Ward 4. Visit the city’s website for more information on all of your elected officials: nlr.ar.gov/elected-officials
New City Council Members
Nicole Hart
Ward 2
• Married to McAlmont native Patrick Hart since 2008
• Children: Paige, Patrick “PJ”, and Arionna
• Member of McAlmont Church of Christ
• Attended Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, Texas, Harding University in Searcy, and University of Arkansas Little Rock studying political science
• Joined the Arkansas National Guard then entered the United States Army in 2001 with a deployment to Iraq from 2003-2005.
• Served as a senior advisor for Military & Veterans Affairs, and served on the Joint Terrorism Task Force under Governor Mike Beebe.
• Managing Partner of Hartworks Strategies, LLC
• Performs Veterans Affairs contract work, specializing is strategic partnership and stakeholder engagement for National Veterans Administration mental health and work force programs
• Served as Chair for Rock Region Metro Board of Directors
• Former Chair and Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Arkansas
• Alum of the distinguished women’s leadership program Emerge, a national organization training and recruiting women to run for office
• Served as a School Board Member with Academics Plus Charter School
• University of Louisiana, Monroe, Louisiana –Bachelor of Business Administration
• North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, Member
• Married to Lauren, two Children
• Lakewood Youth Sports – Coach Baseball, Softball, and Soccer
• Attend Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
• Parent Organizer/Coach for Little Rockers Running Program
• Parent Teacher Organization, Member
• Immaculate Conception Men’s Club, Member
New CENTRAL STATION
...in construction
NorthLittle Rock’s new Central fire Station has been making steady headway in spite of some time lost due to the holiday season and wet weather. While progress may seem slow, our partners at Alessi Keyes Construction have been hard at work putting in underground utilities and foundations, things that may not be obvious to the casual observer. This enabled them to pour the slab for the living quarters and the administrative areas during a very small weather window on January 16. In the last week of January, we started to see both block work and steel rising above the slab. The projected completion date is still January of 2026.
You can have a big impact on the community. Lt. Matchett takes a moment after the fire to make new friends.
To get more information on a career with NLRFD contact our recruiter by filling out an interest form at, https://nlr.ar.gov/departments/firedepartment/recruitment/
Little Rock Fire Department has a full technical rescue team for those that rise to the challenge.
Extensive training program to get you ready for the real thing.
North
Funland Opening Soon
Funland in Burns Park will open this spring! We are excited to share the new splash pad and activities for kids. Visit the city’s website, nlr.ar.gov, for more information on the opening date.
Scan the QR Code to learn more about this exciting new feature!
NLR EVENT CENTER
The new North Little Rock Event Center is now under construction. The 31,000-square-foot structure will have a ballroom over 12,000 square feet, break-out meeting rooms, and pre-function areas. We are excited about the center opening in 2026.
Community Center Updates
The North Little Rock Community Center, located at 2700 Willow Street, has undergone numerous improvements. The gymnasium has been painted, and the entire entrance, meeting rooms, and exercise and weight rooms received a much-needed update. The most notable change was the exterior of the building. The entrance is now more welcoming, and the entire exterior of the building was painted. Thanks to our patrons for your patience during the renovation. We are excited to showcase the new look.
Baptist Health Rose City Welcomes Patients
At Baptist Health Family Clinic-Rose City, we’re thrilled to offer high-quality, accessible healthcare in for North Little Rock residents of all ages! Our services include primary and pediatric care, preventive health, women’s health, family medicine, and support for managing chronic conditions. We are happy to accept most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. Our dedicated team, featuring the wonderful Dr. Jessica Udeogu and Gia Williams, APRN, is proud to be a part of the vibrant Rose City community and its future. We love participating in local events, offering health screenings, and promoting wellness fairs to support our neighbors. Plus, we’re eager to partner with local schools and businesses to provide engaging educational sessions on important healthcare topics! Baptist Health Clinic Rose City, located at 4200 East Washington Avenue, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72117, is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. To make an appointment, call 501-534-1300
Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center…. Age is just a Number!
Dick Blankenbeker and Jim Lewis are the two eldest commissioners of the Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center. Mr. Blankenbeker will turn 91 years young on April 3 and Mr. Lewis will be 91 on May 14. These two men play a very
important role as commissioners of the center. They volunteer as commissioners within the center and Mr. Blankenbeker volunteers with the Master Gardeners to keep the flower beds looking beautiful. Mr. Lewis teaches a water aerobics class to the seniors. It is remarkable to see the stamina these two men maintain at their age. This is proof that age is just a number. This also shows “the Hays Center is a place for the young at heart”! The Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center is located at 401 Pershing Boulevard, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72114. The center is open Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 12:00 -5:00 p.m. Office hours: 8:30 a.m. –4:00 p.m.
more about the Patrick Henry Hays Senior Center.
DOLLAR GENERAL OPENS
DISTRIBUTION CENTER
Dollar General recently opened their new distribution center in North Little Rock. This facility will enhance Dollar General’s supply chain by enabling the transportation of perishable goods to stores through the Dollar General Fresh network. Spanning one million square feet, the facility represents a financial investment of over $160 million and is expected to create approximately 300 new jobs in our city. Pictured left to right: Steve Brophy, Vice President of Public Policy and Government Relations for Dollar General; Colleen Bailey, Director of Economic Development for the City of North Little Rock; Kacey Levine, Senior Director of Supply Chair Optimization for Dollar General; Mayor Terry Hartwick, City of North Little Rock; and Brian Clark, Senior Director of Distribution for Dollar General.
VOLUNTEER
NLR Shows Support for Police and Citizens
Mayor Hartwick signed a new, twoyear contract in January for the North Little Rock Police Department Supervisors Association and the North Little Rock Fraternal Order of Police. The signing renewed the City’s unwavering commitment to public safety with a continued focus on recruiting and retention in the North Little Rock Police Department.
Smart Justice Initiative Celebrates Early Success in
NLR District Court
North Little Rock District Court's Smart Justice District Court Initiative is already making a difference, helping individuals in the justice system find stability and success. More than just a court program, the initiative provides participants with critical resources such as employment support, mental health services, and access to basic needs like food and housing. Judge Paula Juels Jones emphasized that many individuals entering the system lack role models or guidance, and this initiative is designed to change that. Chief Probation Officer Ray Cobbs and Public Defender Tracy Overman echoed her sentiments, highlighting the importance of treating participants as individuals rather than just case numbers. With a focus on long-term support, the program aims to break cycles of hardship and offer real opportunities for change.
The program recently celebrated its first two graduates, Mrs. Terry and Mrs. King-Hayes, who overcame significant obstacles with the help of the initiative. Mrs. King-Hayes set goals to improve her food security, maintain housing benefits, access mental health counseling, and comply with probation. She not only achieved these goals but also secured employment, maintained a 3.5 GPA in college, and is now preparing for nursing school. Similarly, Mrs. Terry worked to increase her income, improve budgeting skills, and receive mental health treatment. She successfully met these objectives and is now working toward obtaining her driver’s license. Their success reflects the power of support and determination, as noted by Court Coordinator Zhane Singleton: “Their journey proves that with the right support and dedication, positive change is within reach.” Judge Juels Jones proudly dismissed multiple charges against both women, marking their official fresh start. With employment rates among participants already rising, and plans to expand services in areas like healthcare, recovery assistance, and transportation, the North Little Rock initiative is proving to be a life-changing opportunity for those willing to take the first step toward a better future
LIBRARY Check out your
Spring Events
The North Little Rock Public Library System (NLRPLS) is gearing up for an eventful spring with a variety of programs designed to engage the community. With nearly every fourth Thursday in 2025 dedicated to a family-themed night, there will be something for all ages to enjoy at all of our locations - Laman, Argenta, The Hub, and Rover. Here’s a look at some of the major events happening this season:
Spring Break – March 24-28
For those planning a Spring Break staycation, NLRPLS will offer a week-long lineup of events designed to provide entertainment and enrichment for all ages. The full schedule will be released soon, promising a variety of engaging activities across library locations.
National Library Week – April 6-12
NLRPLS will celebrate National Library Week with several special events in partnership with the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS). The festivities kick off on Sunday, April 6, with the return of the Rock Paper Run 5K, featuring a brand-new route. The celebration will conclude on Saturday, April 12, with a National Library Week Party in Laman Plaza, offering a community gathering filled with activities, entertainment, and more.
Earth Day – April 24
April’s family night theme is Earth Day, providing a chance to explore sustainability, conservation, and the beauty of the natural world through interactive programs and educational activities.
Speed Puzzling at Laman – Saturday, April 26
Puzzle enthusiasts can put their skills to the test at the Speed Puzzling competition at Laman Library on April 26. Participants will race against the clock to complete a jigsaw puzzle, competing individually or in teams. Space is limited, and registration closes in early April.
Self-Care – May 22
The May family night will focus on self-care, offering relaxation-focused programs to help the community unwind and prioritize well-being. With a strong commitment to providing free, engaging, and educational programming, NLRPLS invites the community to take part in these upcoming events. For more details, visit: www.nlrlibrary.org
Community Gardens
What a Year:
Cultivating Community and Growth
in North Little Rock’s Community Garden Program
As we look back, 2024 was a year of incredible growth and connection for North Little Rock’s community garden program. From record harvests and inspiring service projects, these gardens blossomed into spaces of transformation.
2024 by the Numbers:
Our 15 active gardens produced over 9,200 pounds of fresh produce, with Baring Cross Community Garden leading the charge by distributing more than 6,700 pounds to the community.
Growing Knowledge and Sustainability:
Schools like Pike View Elementary and groups such as Urban Promise participated in hands on workshops designed to empower our youth and encourage learning about sustainability, healthy eating, and the importance of local food systems. These experiences are inspiring future generations while building a foundation for urban agriculture.
Growing New Roots:
The garden program is poised for exciting growth with the addition of three (3) new community gardens in Ward 2: Urban Sol Community Garden, The Tea House, and the NLR Six Academy of Agriculture & Veterinary Sciences (7th Street Elementary). Additionally, four existing gardens—Boone Park Elementary, Iris Park, Dark Hollow, and North Little Rock High School—are set to expand their gardens this season. These projects will enhance the program’s impact and bring fresh energy to the community.
Looking to 2025 and Beyond:
With the leadership of the new Garden Program Manager, Rachelle Kelly, and Garden Technician, Jeff Titus, this year brings exciting opportunities for growth and engagement.
Plans include enhancing community involvement, expanding educational workshops, and strengthening partnerships. Key initiatives such as the construction of an onsite green house, garden expansion projects, and continued support for both new and established gardens are set to make this year productive and impactful.
Community gardens are places where we cultivate resilience, pride, and a sense of belonging. As we celebrate 2024's achievements and look ahead, one thing is clear: the roots we have planted are only the beginning of North Little Rock’s blossoming future.
GARDEN APPLICATIONS FOR FALL DUE ON JUNE 15, 2025
NEW GARDENS ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO $1500
RETURNING GARDENS ELIGIBLE UP TO $5000
STEP 1: Scan the QR Code to review the application located at the bottom of our website
STEP 2: Complete application and compile all required documents
STEP 3: Submit everything to NLRNeighborhoodServ@nlr.ar.gov
For assistance with your application, contact RKelly@nlr.ar.gov or NLRNeighborhoodServ@nlr.ar.gov 501-791-8500
North Little Rock Contact Information
Mayor Terry C. Hartwick 501-975-8601 mayor@nlr.ar.gov
City Clerk/Treasurer Diane Whitbey
City Attorney Amy Fields
Judge (Traffic) Judge Randy Morley
501-975-8617 cityclerkoffice@nlr.ar.gov
501-975-3755 nlrlegal@nlr.ar.gov
501-791-8562 melinda.johnson@nlrpolice.org
Judge (Criminal/Civil) Judge Paula Juels Jones 501-791-8559 janet.hill@nlrpolice.org
Chief of Staff Mike Davis
City Council
Ward 1 Council Member Nathan Hamilton
501-975-8601 mdavis@nlr.ar.gov
501-952-7679 nhamilton@nlr.ar.gov
Ward 1 Council Member Debi Ross 501-753-0733 dross@nlr.ar.gov
Ward 2 Council Member Linda Robinson 501-945-8820 lrobinson@nlr.ar.gov
Ward 2 Council Member Nicole Hart 501-960-2461 nhart@nlr.ar.gov
Ward 3 Council Member Steve Baxter 501-804-0928 sbaxter@nlr.ar.gov
Ward 3 Council Member Ron Harris 501-758-2877 ronharris@nlr.ar.gov
