Words or Deeds?

Texarkana residents have chance to make a difference

Lots of local residents complain about city government—on both sides of the State Line. We get letters and phone calls. And if you look at social media, you’ll find a near-constant stream of invective against city policies, actions and leadership.

Everyone, it seems, has an idea about what Texarkana needs and how the two cities should be run. Everybody is more than willing to air their opinions and share their ideas.

Which is fine. But while venting may make you feel good—especially when you get a chorus of agreement on Facebook—it usually doesn’t do a whole lot of good.

What does? Taking action.

For example, Arkansas-side residents have an opportunity to run for mayor and for the city Board of Directors seats in Wards 3, 4 and 5 in the upcoming November general election.

On the Texas side, residents can file for mayor and for City Council seats in Wards 1, 4 and 6.

But the deadline to file is almost here—Friday at noon in Arkansas and at 5 p.m. Monday in Texas.

There are residency qualifications to be met and forms to be filed. On the Arkansas side, potential candidates must also file a petition with at least 50 registered voters supporting the candidacy.

There is no filing fee on either side. Citizen participation is the key to a representative democracy. That includes not just voting, but serving in office if you really think you can do a better job for the people. Here’s your chance if you are willing to take it.