City’s Civil Engineer Manager to be Next Department Director

(Little Rock – June 15, 2005) After conducting a nationwide search, Little Rock City Manager Bruce Moore has announced the appointment of Steve Haralson to be the next Director of the City’s Public Works Department. Haralson will start in the position on August 1.

In making the announcement Moore said, “As Manager of our Public Works Civil Engineering Division since 2000, Steve has been an outstanding leader. In searching for the next Public Works Director, I was seeking someone with not only professional expertise but also a commitment to the concerns of citizens. Steve excels in both of these areas. This is an important time for the Public Works Department. In addition to our ongoing operations, the staff is working on over $30 million in projects from the 2004 Bond program. Steve will be an excellent leader as we fulfill our commitments to Little Rock’s citizens.”

Mayor Jim Dailey expressed his support for Haralson. “The City Manager has made an outstanding selection. Steve is uniquely qualified to lead the Department. Because of his experience with the City, he understands the needs of Little Rock citizens. But he also brings a new outlook gained through his work in the private sector. The City Board interacts with the Public Works Director on a weekly basis. It will be a pleasure to work with Steve as we serve the needs of Little Rock’s citizens.”

“I am excited by this opportunity and honored to have been selected,” said Haralson. “The men and women of the Public Works Department are committed to providing Little Rock with an efficient and first-rate infrastructure. This is their focus each and every day. I look forward to working with them, the City Manager, and the Mayor & City Board as we meet the infrastructure needs of Little Rock.”

Haralson joined LR City government in March 2000 as Civil Engineer Manager. He has previous engineering experience in public sector and private sector employment. In addition, Haralson is a licensed attorney and has practiced law. Haralson succeeds Guy Lowes who retired as Public Works Director in March of this year. Since Lowes’ retirement, Assistant City Manager Bob Turner has served as Interim Public Works Director.