Our role goes on
Editor, The Commercial:
Being a citizen comes with great responsibility. We must regularly decide who will represent us in government. Voters recently exercised that power in the 2024 general election. I am thankful to those who elected me to serve as the next 3rd Ward City Council member. Now for the next four years, I will endeavor to support 3rd Ward residents as your voice and advocate on the council, including those who did not vote for me.
The campaign was a long journey. I am grateful to everyone who contributed time, resources and advice. I am grateful to my family for their unwavering encouragement and dedication. Most importantly, I thank God for the strength and grace to complete this journey.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
I also commend my opponent Colton Edwards. As a business owner with a big heart for this community, he is a remarkable example. I wish him the best in future endeavors. I extend additional gratitude to outgoing city Council Member Glen Brown Sr. for his service and love for Pine Bluff. I wish him the absolute best as well.
The voters also elected Vivian Flowers last week to serve as mayor. I wish her success in this role, as her success will be our success as a city. I look forward to working with her. Furthermore, I thank outgoing Mayor Shirley M. Washington for the ways she led progress in our city.
While the 2024 election may be over, our roles as citizens still continue. We all have a responsibility in the next chapter of Pine Bluff because elected officials alone cannot make this city succeed. We will need your help in our schools, law enforcement agencies, healthcare facilities, businesses, factories, nonprofits and wherever else you may be positioned. With gratitude and excitement, I look forward to working with you all.
William Fells, Pine Bluff,
3rd Ward Council Member-elect