Steven Mays Sr. is seeking reelection to the Pine Bluff City Council, while Nathaniel Baker, seeking to hold public office for the first time, is challenging him in a race for Ward 4, Position 2.
Mays and Baker are Democrats. Since no one filed as an independent or in another party, the winner of this race in the March 3 primary will be sworn into office Jan. 1, 2027.
Mays, who retired from the Pine Bluff Arsenal, and Baker, who is employed with Humana, were asked two questions:
1. What inspires you to run for (re)election?
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
2. What is the most pressing need in your ward, and how do you plan to address it?
These are their responses:
STEVEN MAYS SR.
1. A good question. I love the Fourth Ward and helping all of our citizens daily. I want to finish what I started working (on) as a councilman in Ward 4. However, many are called and a very few are chosen to be elected council members in Pine Bluff.
When I was a young man growing up in Pine Bluff, I would always say that we shall do better and better daily in Pine Bluff. I love helping others along the way by giving back my time and friendship. I love the great city of Pine Bluff. Enough said.
2. Good question. The 71602 shared zip code issue between Pine Bluff and White Hall needs to be addressed ASAP. The city of Pine Bluff owns the right to 71602. However, our city leaders shall come together soon and work together to solve this issue in Pine Bluff. It’s our 71602 zip code. Enough said.
NATHANIEL BAKER
1. I am a bridge builder and a long-standing community leader who is deeply passionate about change. My inspiration comes from a desire to be a solution-based community change agent, focusing on rebuilding Pine Bluff and making it the premier place where people truly want to live, work, and play. I believe in the power of relationships and bring a high level of integrity and resourcefulness to this role. I am dedicated to ensuring we create lasting, positive transformations for all our citizens, with a steadfast focus on the specific needs of Ward 4 residents.
2. The most pressing need is for a strong advocate for Ward 4 residents — someone to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met. I plan to be that advocate by helping residents navigate city government offices and translating complex policies into actionable results.
To ensure accountability, I am proposing a transparency plan that includes:
• Quarterly public updates: Clear reports on committee actions.
• Independent work sessions: Meeting beyond standard council meetings.
• Resident input: Listening before major decisions are made.
• Clear goals and outcomes: Setting benchmarks and tracking results.
• Direct leadership: Providing hands-on, accountable leadership.
By fostering strong relationships and focusing on this transparency, I will work tirelessly to ensure Ward 4 receives the attention and resources it deserves to thrive.