The Hope Lions Club heard a program from former Hempstead County resident Jim Jackson. Jackson is an attorney in Little Rock. He and his wife also developed a neighborhood in North Little Rock called Rockwater Village. The development took a blighted area in North Little Rock adjacent to the Arkansas River and have turned it into an upscale residential development. Over the past twelve years, the area has grown to about 1,100 residential units. Jackson and his wife Lisa Ferrell bought the initial property about twenty-five years ago. Most recently they have developed a 365-unit resort-style apartment complex.
Jackson talked about a proposed initiative called Issue 3 which would help economic development in the state if approved by voters in November. The proposed constitutional amendment is aimed at expanding economic development tools for communities across the state. The measure would allow lawmakers to create economic development programs. These would include local economic development districts where cities or counties could offer incentives to attract businesses, housing, and other projects. Jackson notes the six states around Arkansas have passed similar legislation and Arkansas is at a disadvantage without more options for public-private partnerships. The amendment would not raise taxes, but instead use new revenue generated by development projects. Supporters argue the measure could help address issues like lack of grocery access, housing shortages and vacant properties, especially in rural areas. Jackson urged the Lions to study the proposal prior to voting this fall.
In addition to Jackson’s address on Issue 3 and details on he and his wife’s real estate development, he talked about his father who was a career naval officer. When Mr. Jackson retired from the Navy, he returned to operate a store in Columbus. Jim Jackson detailed his roots in Hempstead County as well as his childhood friendship with current Hope City Manager J.R. Wilson.
The Lions enjoyed the program which included Hempstead County history, Jackson’s efforts in real estate development in North Little Rock, and details about the proposed amendment.
