ROCKREPORT
BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Board members authorized a total of $882,000 to two contractors for construction of four new affordable homes on Zion Street in Ward 6 These single-family homes funded by a federal grant are a promise kept toward Mayor Scott’s pledge toward increasing affordable housing opportunities.
Watch the latest Little Rock Board of Directors meeting at: youtube.com/citylittlerock
EVENT REPLAYS
PLAYGROUND UPGRADES
The Board approved $100,000 to improve the playground equipment at War Memorial Park. The playground has been a popular attraction at the park since its initial construction in 2012
Find press conferences, meetings, and event recordings by LRTV linked here.
ReLeaf Rock Creek Trail
April 12, 2025
Little Rock Planning Commission Meeting
April 10, 2025
Board Agenda Meeting
April 8, 2025
Board of Directors Meeting
April 1, 2025
LRFD Fire Station 9 Groundbreaking Ceremony
March 31, 2025
FindallstreamedandrecordedeventsonCLRYouTubechannelandFacebookpage youtube.com/littlerock facebook.com/littlerock
DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOOD PROGRAMS
Homeless Services recently hosted the quarter 2 resource fair where all hands were on deck assisting our Homeless Outreach with feeding the unsheltered population in the City of Little Rock! Other divisions in HNP, like Code Enforcement came out to assist as well. This session was held at Lifeline Baptist Church where services were offered to unsheltered residents, community connections were made, and meals were distributed! This quarter, 115 participants were served, 29 organizations were represented, and 88 vendors/volunteers contributed their time, energy, and compassion.
FINANCE: SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Congratulations to Amanda Robinson and Tametra Smith, who are owners of two of the businesses in Cohort #5 of BUILD Academy. Amanda Robinson, who works as the Senior Deputy Court Clerk in the District Court (3rd Division) is the owner of Brown Skin Jewel.
Tametra Smith, who works as the 311 Service Center Manager, is the owner of Pitch, Please!
With City employees joining in on the fun, BUILD Academy is one of the many programs that helps us Unite, Grow, and Transform Little Rock.
Tametra Smith
Amanda Robinson
FINANCE: GRANTS DIVISION
Shoutout to our Finance Departments Grants Division for their work with the Rape Prevention Education grant from February 2024 through February 2025, in partnership with the RPE team and UAMS. They were able to conduct research regarding sexual violence within the unhoused community, and shared their initial findings from resource reviews, community survey, and focus groups. Based on their research, they were able to make recommendations on how to improve the safety of our unhoused and home insecure residents through refined public transit safety measures and increased community engagement & communication. Thank you to our grants team for being people-centered, equitable, and innovative! You can read the executive summary included as an attachment.
PUBLICWORKS
Shoutout to the Department of Public Works for their diligent work serving all CLR communities during the severe weather. We saw an immense amount of rain, lightning, and strong winds that caused flooding, fallen trees, and significant street and property damage. Our Public Works teams swept the community and assisted residents with hauling away debris from residential and commercial areas. Thank you for the hard work that you’ve done and continue to do for our beautiful city!
Special Shoutout to Maneesh Krishnan, our Assistant Director of Public Works, as he has been instrumental in helping our Communications team create messaging that provides residents with information and resources they need to clean up their properties. Thank you, Maneesh, for being people-centered and for providing exceptional service!
CORE VALUES IN ACTION
New
News
SOUTHERN BANCORP LITTLE ROCK COMMUNITY DAYS
As a mission-focused financial institution and one of the country's oldest and largest community development banks, Southern Bancorp is guided by the belief that everyone in the community should have access to the tools and resources needed to succeed. We are proud to partner with like-minded organizations and programs, like the Little Rock Zoo's "Zoo for All" initiative, to help deliver the opportunity of access to more individuals and families.
Through Southern Bancorp Little Rock Community Days, the Little Rock Zoo is excited to extend special admission discounts exclusively to residents of Little Rock. As a thank-you to the people whose tax dollars help support and improve the Zoo, these special days provide an opportunity for our local community to explore and enjoy the Zoo at a reduced cost. We invite Little Rock residents to take advantage of this offer and experience the incredible wildlife, exhibits, and educational opportunities that make the Zoo a special place for everyone. The following are attributes of the program:
A day once per quarter when residents of Little Rock receive a $2 admission per person
Residency proven by driver’s license, ID, or utility bill. Parking will be $1.
The Zoo will be open regular hours from 9 AM to 4 PM, with the final admission at 3:30 PM.
Dates:
June 7th, 2025
September 20th, 2025
December 6th, 2025
ZOOFARI DAY CAMP
Join us for a wild and fun-filled summer at Zoofari camp! Campers will experience up-close animal interactions, hands-on activities, and make new friends while learning about wildlife and conservation. Campers will be split into groups based on the following ages: 6-7, 8-9, 10-12 Activities and interactions are tailored to be age-appropriate for your camper. Every topic includes opportunities to engage directly with keepers and Zoo staff, meet animals up close, participate in special experiences not offered to the public, and ride the carousel and train!
Link to Camp Information and Registration
LR RECYCLES DAY
Bring your clean and dry items, and we’ll help you recycle them responsibly Here’s what we’re accepting:
�� Documents: Secure shredding for old papers.
�� E-Waste: Anything with a power cord (except fridges and window AC units)
♻ Recyclables: #1 & #2 plastic bottles and jugs, #5 plastic tubs, cardboard, paper, aluminum & steel cans your curbside recycling staples.
�� Plastic Bags & Wraps: Grocery bags, bread bags, bubble wrap, and more stretchy plastics.
�� Glass: Clean glass containers
�� Bicycles: Old bikes in any condition.
�� Housewares: Good-condition items you’d donate to Goodwill.
Stop by the East Parking Lot at the corner of Zoo Drive and Monroe between 9 AM and 12 PM to drop off your items
For questions about this event, email recycle@littlerock.gov or call (501) 371-4646.
Please Note: We only accept recyclables during designated recycling event hours Donations left at the gate before or after these events cannot be accepted. Please drop off items only during the posted times no early or late drop-offs
More information: Little Rock Recycles Day August | Little Rock Zoo
READING IN THE ROCK BOOK DRIVE
Reading in the Rock is a city and school district reading campaign We want to increase access to books at our community centers Bring new or gently used children's books to City Hall to be placed in community centers this summer. Books will be collected until May 30.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FAIR
Come learn about what services our Community Development Division offers!
Location: Willie Hinton Neighborhood Resource Center
Date: 4/24/2025
Time: 4:00 - 5:00 PM
23RD ANNUAL THERAPEUTIC RECREATION ARTS FESTIVAL
WE NEED YOUR HELP, join us for a day you won’t forget!!
Join us for the 23rd Annual Therapeutic Recreation Arts Festival! We are looking for helpers for this event!!
Friday, May 2nd at the Hall of Industry- Arkansas State Fairgrounds
Volunteers Needed
We will need assistance to help with set up as early as 7:00 a.m. at the event center. This will include hanging banners, decorations, as well as getting tables and chairs in order
We will also need help during the event from 9:30 am-1:00 pm to assist with booths, dance contest, selling shirts, sign in tables, etc
If you would like to volunteer and want a specific assignment, please contact Sherri Shinn. sshinn@littlerock.gov
You will be able to park in the vendor parking When you enter the main entrance to the fairgrounds where you will be directed to the left and vendor parking will be at the north end of the building There will be someone directing traffic
If you are available that day please Sherrie know what timeframe you are available to serve, and send your t-shirt size.
*If you are not available for the entire length of the event please let the coordinator know so that they can be sure to have coverage in all areas.
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS W/ THE MARKETING AND COMMS TEAM
The Marketing and Comms team will be hosting several sessions where city team members can come and take professional headshots The sessions will take place across several days, times, and at various locations. There will be a form distributed for sign up, and dates will be announced soon!
Keep in Mind
CITY ON THE MOVE: IPREVAIL
For the 2nd quarter of 2025, the City on the Move program will educate employees on maintaining a healthy mind with iPrevail through Cigna. iPrevail is a digital therapeutics platform, designed by experienced clinicians to help you take control of the stresses of everyday life and challenges associated with life’s difficult transitions. Click the video to learn more about iPrevail
NEW NURSE TRIAGE SERVICES
GET READY: A SAFER, SMARTER WAY TO HANDLE WORKPLACE INJURIES!
Effective March 1, 2025, the City of Little Rock is taking workplace safety to the next level! We’re partnering with Paradigm to roll out a NEW telephonic nurse triage service designed to get you the right care, right away!
Workplace injury? One quick call connects you to a nurse for expert medical guidance, helping you recover faster while simplifying workers’ compensation reporting. Less hassle, more care because safety should be simple!
Stay tuned—big changes are coming!
#OrangeForSafetyLR | Fast. Focused. Protected.
WILD WINES AT THE ZOO
SIP, SAVOR, AND SUPPORT WILDLIFE
Experience one of the year’s most anticipated events Wild Wines at the Little Rock Zoo! Join us on April 25-26, 2025, for this award-winning fundraiser featuring fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and live entertainment, all in support of the Arkansas Zoological Foundation and the Little Rock Zoo. Special Employee Discount: CLREE25
Wild Wines offers an incredible opportunity for sponsors, vendors, and event volunteers to make an impact. Sponsors will gain prominent visibility through event materials, signage, and direct interaction with an engaged audience. Vendors can connect with guests and showcase their culinary and beverage offerings in a fun and festive setting. To get involved, contact us at ZooPartner@littlerock.gov for more information.
Volunteers are welcome to help with the event, but participants must be 21 or older. If you're interested in volunteering, please reach out to Kaylah Jackson at kjackson@littlerock.gov or 501-661-7212 for more information. SIGN UP LINK
&TIPS TIPS Tricks Tricks
Parent/Caregiver Siblings
Be patient
Engage in Floor Activities
Take Care of YOURSELF
Celebrate Quirks and Talents
Make a Schedule
Be Consistent
Increase Social Awareness
Teach Calming Mannerisms
Always Stay Positive
Reward Positive Behavior
NEVER GIVE UP
Learn More
Encourage Open Communication
Learn About Autism
Talk About Autism Openly
Acknowledge and Validate Feelings
Foster Positive Interactions
Spend Quality Time Together
Practice Patience and Empathy
Respect Privacy and Personal Space
Encourage Participation in Activities
Seek Support When Needed
Schedule Alone Time With Parents
Learn More
Teacher Co-Worker
Practice Social Skills
Integrate Their Interests
Avoid Sensory Overload
Support Transitions
Create a Comfortable Classroom
Create Structured Environments
Incorporate Sensory Tools
Provide Positive Feedback
Provide Autistic Students With Regular Choices
Be Respectful
Connect With the Parents
Learn More
Be Direct and Clear
Provide Written Instructions
Allow Ample Time for Responses
Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Cues
Use Visual Supports
Communicate Openly and Directly
Be Aware of Sensory Overload
Provide a Quiet Space
Respect Personal Space and Boundaries
Make Necessary Accommodations
Make Flexible Work Arrangements
Learn More
Friend Partner
Be Direct and Clear
Use Simple Language
Be Patient
Respect Sensory Sensitivities
Encourage Open Communication
Don’t Make Assumptions
Ask Questions
Validate Their Experiences
Focus on Shared Interests
Set Boundaries
Learn More
Be Direct and Clear
Listen Actively
Embrace Different Communication Styles
Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Educate Yourself
Recognize Sensory Sensitivities
Respect Routines and Preferences
Consider Couples & Individual Therapy
Join Support Groups
Practice Empathy and Compassion
Focus on the Positive
Remember to Have Fun
Learn More
DROP BOX
April ‘25
Groundbreaking Ceremony: Fire Station 9
View the photo gallery from the Groundbreaking Ceremony of Fire Station 9 Fire station 9 was one of the structures destroyed in the March 31st tornado
Mobile City Hall and Involvement Fair
View the photo gallery from the first Mobile City, a mayoral initiative that aims to bring city resources, services, and information to residents after City Hall operating hours
National Crimes Victims Rights Week
View the photo gallery for the press conference held for National Crime Victims Rights Week, hosted by the Center for Healing Hearts and Spirits.
#LRStrong: ReLeaf Rock Creek Trail
View the photo gallery for the April 12 ReLeaf Rock Creek Trail event, where volunteers and city leaders alike gathered to plant new trees along Rock Creek Trail
Know a person, business, or group making Little Rock greener and more equitable? Nominate them for a Sustain the Rock Award! We honor leaders driving real change through:
Systemic
Reducing
Protecting
Educating
“Volunteers Make Waves”
Global Volunteer Month is a time to celebrate and recognize the power of people who tackle society's greatest challenges through volunteerism.
Volunteer Opportunities Through The City of Little Rock:
IMPACT THE ROCK: ZOO VOLUNTEERS
Volunteer at one of the Zoo’s largest fundraising events, Wild Wines; the Zoo’s annual award winning wine festival
Dates: Friday, April 25, 2025(VIP Night) and Saturday, April 26, 2025 (Main Event)
IMPACT THE ROCK: A DAY OF UNITY AND SERVICE
On April 26th, residents will come together to beautify our parks, trails, streets, waterways and flowerbeds; care for our animals, and strengthen our city through meaningful service
Details: April 26, 2025
PICK IT UP! LITTLE ROCK
Pick It Up! is Little Rock’s new citywide initiative to encourage and inspire residents, businesses, and visitors to take an active role in picking up litter, preventing pollution, and building pride in our shared community
ADOPT-A-STREET
The Adopt-A-Street program provides an opportunity for civic engagement in removing litter to keep our City beautiful Individuals, families, businesses, civic groups, and neighborhood associations are invited to "adopt" a city street and pledge to keep their streets clean by picking up litter along their adopted streets at least four (4) times a year
PROJECT IMPACT
The mission and goal of Project Impact is to saturate underserved communities with city services to beautify neighborhoods, reduce crime, and expose residents to the resources the City of Little Rock has to offer beyond the day-to-day city support.
Featured Resources
Financial Wellness
$170B liquidity problem: ending the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle
Most Americans live paycheck to paycheck and don’t have enough money for a rainy day.
Americans spend $170B a year just waiting for their next paycheck That includes fees from payday loans, bank overdrafts, subprime credit cards, and various types of late payments.
This means working Americans spend more each year just waiting for their next paycheck than they have in savings. This Liquidity Problem is a terrible situation. For both employees and employers.
Rain solves this problem by making it easy for employers to enable their employees to get paid instantly after each shift.
To read the full article, Click Here
Housing Press Conference
Monday, April 21st, 9:15 AM
4411 Bowers Street
Grand Opening of Temp. Station 9
Monday, April 21st, 10:00 AM TBD
UPCOMING MEETINGS PRESS RIBBON CUTTINGS
Board of Directors Meeting
Tuesday, April 15th, 6:00 PM
City Hall
Land Bank Commission
Wednesday, April 16th, 12:00 PM
City Hall
Civil Service Commission
Thursday, April 17th, 8:30 AM
City Hall
Board of Adjustment
Thursday, April 17th, 4:00 PM
City Hall
Sustainability Commission
Wednesday, April 23rd, 3:00 PM
Centennial Bank Riverdale
City Beautiful Commission
Thursday, April 24th, 4:00 PM
City Hall
