The Task Force for the 21st Century Economy presented interim findings and unveiled its new Web site to Gov. Mike Beebe and the state legislature during a meeting Thursday at the state Capitol.
In an effort to facilitate communication among members and the general public, the task force created a Web site at www.taskforce21.arkansas.gov that details information and actions by the group. Included on the site is information about the task force, legislation, members, information on meetings, presentations, reference materials and links to government offices and agencies.
The task force said it will present its final report with recommendations to the governor and legislature on or before Oct. 31.
The interim report contained information gathered over the past seven months as the group continues to study how to make the state more globally competitive. The task force is also studying whether the state constitution should continue to prohibit public funds from being invested in private enterprise, along with other organizational questions related to economic development.
Since its inception, the task force has met in cities throughout Arkansas. A total of 81 communities were invited to share their perspectives and present challenges they face.
Guest speakers presented information on areas impacting Arkansas in the 21st Century economy including globalization, education, funding, research and development, workforce issues, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
The task force is composed of 12 members appointed by Beebe, Speaker of the House Benny C. Petrus and President Pro Tempore of the Senate Jack Critcher. Dianne Lamberth of Batesville was appointed chair.
Two members were nominated by Accelerate Arkansas. Also serving as ex-officio members are the heads of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Arkansas Development Finance Authority and the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority. Serving on the task force and their appointers are as follows:
- Chairperson Dianne Lamberth, Batesville, Beebe
- Judy Adams, Foreman, Beebe
- Guy Fenter, Charleston, Beebe
- Bill Ferren, Pine Bluff, Beebe
- Gene Hill, Camden, Beebe
- Mike Maulden, Little Rock, Beebe
- John Barnes, Little Rock, Petrus
- Mikey Pierce, Stuttgart, Petrus
- Brad Lacy, Conway, Petrus
- Sam Walls, Little Rock, Critcher
- Pat Lea, Batesville, Critcher
- Clay Curtner, Newport, Critcher
- Gary Campbell, Fort Smith, Accelerate Arkansas
- Dr. James Hendre, Little Rock, Accelerate Arkansas
- Dr. John Ahlen, Little Rock, ASTA
- Mac Dodson, ADFA
- Maria Haley, AEDC
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