Robert Earl Davis, District 3 candidate (Democrat)

Davis is a graduate of Gosnell High School and a member of Gosnell Baptist Church. He is retired from a 43 year farming career, and served in the United States Department of Agriculture research service for 30 years and on the Arkansas National Guard for 10 years. He has sat on the Mississippi County Quorum Court for 26 years and was a member of the Gosnell School Board for 30 years. Davis served as the director for Mississippi County Electric Cooperative for 23 years and the director of Arkansas Electric Cooperatives Corporation for 15 years. He has been married to Gail Davis for 57 years, and is currently an active supporter of senior citizens activities in the county.

On the county's current financial situation:

The county's financial situation is fairly stable considering the loss of population we have experienced. It is essential to make sure our budget is balanced and adjusted to match our revenue.

On population loss, economic development, and quality of life in Mississippi County:

Our population loss is mainly due to the mechanization of farming over the past 30 years. Our county has been able to create many manufacturing jobs during the past 10 to 15 years. However, we must continue to create more employment opportunities and to educate a workforce to stabilize our population loss. Every effort must be made to improve the quality of life to encourage people to live and work in Mississippi County.

On relations and communication between the county and its municipalities:

Overall relations between the county and cities is good, with the exception of one dispute over jail fees due to the county. As Quorum Court members, we represent citizens of the cities as well as the rural areas. It is essential to be responsive to all citizens within our district and the county as a whole.

On the reduction of crime in Mississippi County:

It is essential for county government and all citizens to support law enforcement agencies in every way possible. We must provide them with the resources to combat crime wherever it may be. We must insist on rigid enforcement of all laws, especially dealing with drug distribution and use.

On the responsibilities of a Quorum Court Justice:

To represent citizens of District 3 and work with other elected officials in the best interest of Mississippi County. To set and monitor the budget for the county and provide resources needed for all departments of county government. To oversee all finances of the county and to screen and approve expenditures of county funds, including economic development funds. To help provide for the general welfare of the citizens of Mississippi County.

Campaign statement:

It is my goal to continue to serve the citizens of District 3 and all of Mississippi County to the very best of my ability. I will work to provide the leadership and resources needed to make our county a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I believe my experience has prepared me to accomplish these goals. My past and current service on many different boards and organizations has provided me with knowledge and the ability to work with other people. This has enabled me to be an effective representative of the citizens of District 3.