LR directors voice issues about UAMS development pitch

Little Rock City Hall
Brian Chilson

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is looking for to acquire two lots-- 0.34 acres of land -- from the city of Little Rock near the UAMS school, however some members of the Little Rock Board of Directors expressed issues about the plan on Tuesday.

Realty representatives with UAMS told the city board Tuesday that the land would serve as green area near a proposed hotel.

The land lies in between Pine Street and Cedar Street. The website likewise abuts UAMS Boulevard, and city directors stated they were worried about infringing upon close-by residences.

" We simply keep moving a bit more east," Director Dean Kumpuris said. "We make it harder to have homes and neighborhoods in that area."
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UAMS personnel said the organization had no plans to make the dive eastward across UAMS Boulevard. Instead, the teaching hospital is attempting to strategically utilize the footprint it presently has. The draft proposal presently states the city of Little Rock would sell the property to UAMS for $1.

Director Joan Adcock requested that all homeowners in the location be informed of the proposal. Other board members asked for additional information before they took the resolution to a vote, which is arranged for Sept. 5.
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A more detailed report on the proposed hotel will come at a later date, UAMS staff said. The hotel is anticipated to supply lodging for families with clients who are getting care at neighboring medical facilities.

Later on at the meeting, Director Lance Hines revealed discontentment with Mayor Frank Scott Jr.'s management regarding the city's financials. Hines, who has not been shy about his opposition to the sales tax proposition, stated he 'd like to see city officials prove they can use the money already offered before requesting for more.

Hines stated the city remained in infraction of state code by not submitting its yearly compliance financial report on time. Scott said the hold-up is since of staffing lacks, and finishing the audit is "the main concern."

" I've gone through some public hearings and recently I just hear reasons regarding why we're not getting things accomplished," Hines stated. "It's reason after reason, and frankly, I'm tired of it. This lies at the head of your administration, mayor."
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Scott asked Hines to not spread false information as it relates to city departments. He also later on said the Government Finance Officers Association granted the city an extension to complete its financial reporting. Scott said the report needs to be submitted Sept. 12, prior to the Sept. 29 due date.