Stodola Unveils Economic Plan to Move Little Rock Forward
City Directors Stacy Hurst and Gene Fortson Endorse Stodola for Mayor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2006    

Contact: Robert McLarty
501-374-6000

LITTLE ROCK, AR.    Mayoral candidate Mark Stodola today unveiled his economic action plan and announced two key endorsements from City Directors Stacy Hurst and Gene Fortson.  The announcement of these two major endorsements follows earlier endorsements this week by Pulaski County Sheriff Randy Johnson, Prosecuting Attorney Larry Jegley and Coroner Mark Malcolm.  These recent endorsements are being viewed by the campaign as sign of real momentum heading into next Tuesday’s election.

City Directors Stacy Hurst and Gene Fortson both highlighted the reasons behind their endorsement were focused on the Mark’s economic development plan and his understanding that Little Rock’s high crime rate has a paralyzing effect on recruiting new business and quality jobs to the city.   Director Hurst stated, “Mark Stodola is the only candidate in this race who understands that our current crime problem has a direct bearing on our efforts to bring new business to our city.  He has proven to me as our former prosecutor that he can get things done.”  She added, “Mark’s plan of getting our priorities focused is exactly what the doctor ordered.”

Director Fortson agreed with Hurst on Mark’s ability to make our neighborhoods safer but he added his endorsement was also based on having worked with Mark in the past and in studying  Mark’s economic plan.  Director Fortson added, “As a successful businessman and lawyer, and as a former prosecutor and city attorney, Mark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Mayor’s job.  Mark is well known in our city as person who is committed to creating a business climate which fosters innovation, and which brings new business and investment to our city.”

Highlighted in the plan our efforts to use empowerment zones to attract businesses, develop a strong neighborhood initiative and promote increased business development opportunities at the Little Rock National Airport. 

Click here to read Mark's Economic Development Action Plan