CEDRIC WILLIAMS: “OUR BEST DAYS ARE STILL AHEAD”

Former Mayor Announces Campaign Focused on Neighborhoods, Youth, Infrastructure, and Public Safety

FORREST CITY, Arkansas — Former Mayor Cedric Williams today announced his candidacy for Mayor of Forrest City, launching a campaign centered on the theme “Forrest City First” and a vision for continuing progress while preparing the city for future opportunities.

Williams, a business owner, community leader, and former Mayor, said his decision to run is rooted in a belief that Forrest City stands at an important moment in its history.

“I am running because I believe Forrest City’s best days are still ahead,” Williams said. “We have opportunities for growth and investment, but we also face challenges involving infrastructure, neighborhood revitalization, public safety, and preparing our young people for the future. I believe my experience, relationships, and commitment to this community can help move Forrest City forward.”

Originally from Stephens, Arkansas, Williams moved to Forrest City in 2013 and quickly became involved in community leadership, business development, youth initiatives, and civic service. He currently serves as a State Farm Agent and remains actively engaged in a variety of community and workforce development efforts throughout Eastern Arkansas.

During his previous administration, Williams helped secure millions of dollars for watershed, drainage, and wastewater infrastructure improvements; implemented ShotSpotter technology; introduced drone capabilities for Police and Fire Departments; strengthened city finances; supported economic development initiatives; and led Forrest City through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while maintaining a focus on public safety, essential services, and long-term community progress.

Since leaving office, Williams has remained actively engaged in the community through youth workforce development initiatives, civic leadership, church service, business leadership, and community partnerships. He currently helps lead programs that provide employment, workforce training, and career development opportunities for young people throughout Eastern Arkansas and serves as Co-Director of the Rumble on the Ridge Basketball Tournament.

“Public service doesn’t begin or end with elected office,” Williams said. “Since leaving City Hall, I have remained committed to helping young people, supporting community initiatives, and creating opportunities throughout our region. Those experiences have strengthened my belief that Forrest City’s best days are still ahead.”

The challenges of the past several years have reinforced the importance of preparation, collaboration, and strong leadership, Williams said. Those lessons continue to shape his vision for Forrest City’s future.

Williams’ campaign will focus on five priorities:

• Revitalize Our Neighborhoods
• Invest In Our Youth
• Prepare for Growth, Infrastructure and Opportunity
• Safe Communities, Strong Communities
• Accountable Leadership and Community Pride

Among his signature proposals are a Neighborhood Revitalization and Land Bank Initiative, a Mayor’s Youth Council, a Water Infrastructure Improvement Plan, a Flood Mitigation and Infrastructure Resilience Strategy, a Smart Public Safety Initiative, and the East Arkansas Regional Public Safety Training Center.

“My vision is simple,” Williams said. “Stronger neighborhoods. Greater opportunities for youth. Reliable infrastructure. Safer communities. Accountable leadership.”

“By putting Forrest City First, we can continue Moving FORWARD Together.”

Follow Cedric Williams’ Facebook Page here.  Get involved or donate here.