Washington County Enterprise-Leader
New Alderman Sworn In
STUMBAUGH TO REPRESENT WARD 3 ON COUNCIL
PRAIRIE GROVE — Prairie Grove’s newest alderman comes from a family of public servants.
Doug Stumbaugh, 33, was sworn into office Jan. 7 and will represent Ward 3 on the Prairie Grove City Council.
Stumbaugh, who works for the University of Arkansas, ran unopposed for the seat held for more than 30 years by Murph Pair. Pair did not seek re-election this year.
Stumbaugh’s father, Weyland Stumbaugh, has worked for the state for 40 years. His mother, Cathy Stumbaugh, recently retired after teaching in the Lincoln School District for 37 years.
His father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and an uncle all have served as school board members.
His uncle, George Overbey, served as mayor of Lamar for 24 years, is a past president of the Arkansas Municipal League and was a state legislator for six years. He’s worked in city government for 34 years.
Overbey’s wife and Stumbaugh’s aunt, Betty Overbey, is now serving her second term in the state Legislature.
Stumbaugh said several city officials approached him about running for office, including Pair, who lives across the street from him.
“I’m just interested in serving the city and doing my part,” Stumbaugh said after he was sworn into office.
Mayor Sonny Hudson administered the oath of office for council members at the new City Hall
building on Douglas Street. The other members of the council are all incumbents and ran unopposed in the November General Election: Buddy Lyle, Tony Cunningham, Marquita Smith, Dale Reed, Doug Bartholomew, Rick Clayton and Casey Copeland. Stumbaugh said he does not have any goals yet as a new city council member.
“I’m still trying to figure it out,” he said.
His first official meeting will be Jan. 21.