EDITOR’S NOTE: The Eureka Springs Times-Echo sent a series of questions to the two candidates running for the Ward 3, Position 2 seat on the Eureka Springs City Council in the Nov. 3 election. The race is between incumbent Harry Meyer and Shira Fouste, chair of the CAPC. Meyer did not respond to requests to participate in the Q&A. Answers were edited only for clarity.
• TIMES-ECHO: If elected, what would be your priorities during your first term?
• FOUSTE: Respectfully, I would like to reframe this question and tell you my overall goal rather than individual priorities. If elected to the council, I will make a personal commitment to be the council representative that I would like to have. My goal is to listen to the people of this community and use an inquisitive, thoughtful, informed approach to decision-making. During my first term, I hope to earn the trust and respect of my fellow Eurekans. I want them to be proud of choosing me to represent them.
• TIMES-ECHO: What are your thoughts on the proposed 1 percent sales tax on the ballot for water/ wastewater improvements?
• FOUSTE: I support this proposal. Water and sewage are critical to a healthy community. Through our taxes, we all “collectively” pay for the maintenance and improvements that assure quality of life.
• TIMES-ECHO: What is the biggest challenge facing Eureka Springs headed into 2027 and why?
• FOUSTE: I think available housing is going to continue to be a huge issue for Eureka in 2027. As a small, historic mountain town with limited housing, we are faced with the challenge of sufficient living spaces for the people who keep our town going. And, the cost of living keeps going up exponentially. Tourism is our economic driver. We must attract and retain good workers who feel connected and committed, both to visitors and to the local community.
• TIMES-ECHO: What is your personal opinion on a downtown permanent entertainment district?
• FOUSTE: The people who live here have to live with this decision. Many residents came out and asked council to hear their concerns about how having an entertainment district might affect their lives. I was disappointed that the council did not elect to put it on the ballot.
• TIMES-ECHO: Why should residents vote for you over the other candidate?
• FOUSTE: I think that there are a number of reasons why I would be a good choice for Eureka Springs city council:
I don't want to tell anyone why they should pick me over anyone else. I just want them to know who I am and make an informed decision.
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