LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On Tuesday night, the Little Rock Board of Directors and Mayor Frank Scott Jr. held their first meeting without Bruce Moore, the former city manager who passed away this past weekend.
There were a lot of hugs and tears as the City of Little Rock continued business without one of their own at the table, but leaders ensured Moore was honored.
Moore, the longest-serving city manager in Little Rock's history, had his old seat dressed with a bouquet as it remained empty with his name and title still on display.
Scott gave a heartfelt speech before the meeting, describing how Moore impacted the city with every breath he took.
Then, Director Lance Hines gave the invocation, recited Bible verses, and prayed for his family and friends.
The city manager is the main adviser to the board and mayor and handles operational matters.
"It was Bruce who was really the quiet person behind the scenes that made those things happen," Little Rock Vice Mayor Kathy Webb said.
In the board meeting, one of the last assignments regarding the March tornado was a six-month outlook on recovery efforts.
In the presentation, more than $3 million of FEMA money was granted, and the city is working on Fire Station No. 9, Reservoir Park and Murray Park.
"He knew all the details," Webb said. "He knew the backstory to everything, why we did or didn't do this particular thing. It's a huge job, and while nobody can fill Bruce's shoes, it's a critically important job for the city."
Webb said they will have to fill the city manager spot soon. The mayor will choose someone to fill the position, and the board will vote to approve it.