LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — With one Little Rock director expected to be out of office for the foreseeable future, some people have been left wondering what the laws are around extended leave and what this means for a ward without representation.
The City of Little Rock shared that Director Ken Richardson has been out since mid-May due to medical reasons.
Officials explained that Director Richardson has had multiple life-threatening surgeries and is currently being hospitalized.
Mayor Frank Scott Jr. also expressed that before he can resume his city duties, Director Richardson has many hurdles while on the path to recovery.
Several directors shared their support for Richardson, including Vice Mayor Kathy Webb, Director Andrea Lewis, and Director Antwan Phillips.
"Director Richardson and I have been colleagues and friends for a long time. I hope he returns to good health soon," said Vice Mayor Webb.
"Our hearts and prayers go out to Director Richardson. I know he is ready to be back out here advocating for his residents. In God’s timing, he will be back to serve in his full capacity. In the meantime, I’m here to assist in his absence," said Director Lewis.
"I’m happy to hear that Director Richardson is on the road to recovery. I will continue to pray for complete restoration of his health and I look forward to seeing him on Tuesday nights," said Director Phillips.
You may be wondering, what happens to Director Richardson's position if he is gone for long periods of time?
According to City Attorney Tom Carpenter, Little Rock has a city manager-style government.
This means that if Director Richardson was to be removed then 35% of people who voted in his ward would have to sign a petition.
Once approved, that would go to the ballot to let voters decide whether or not to remove him.
"The idea that it would have a specific provision on how to remove somebody from the board of directors is more specific to this form of the manager form of government and therefore controls," Carpenter explained.
We were also asked how will Richardson's constituents have assistance while he is away. We were told that many directors, including the at-large positions, are making sure they don't go without help.