Let’s cut through the chaos— The position of Washington County Judge requires a new kind of leadership.

According to Arkansas Economic Development Institute projections, Washington County’s population will reach 428,382 by 2045 from 261,549 in 2023. The Northwest Arkansas Council assesses that the population of the metropolitan area will reach one million by 2050.

The future promises economic opportunities, rising property values, and more and more entertainment options. However, the population growth we’ve already experienced brings big challenges. We cannot ignore:

• Increasingly unaffordable housing.
• Ever-present traffic congestion significantly detracting from our quality of life.
• A looming wastewater crisis.
• Failing rural infrastructure.

Our Judge must lead a partnership between the county, our municipalities, the University of Arkansas, and our leading employers, as well as with neighboring counties.

The challenges of Washington County should not look like the challenges of Washington D.C. Recently, we’ve seen the Quorum Court fall into culture wars and chaos. This position should solely be interested in the business of the county. 

There is a better way. Dana is meeting with residents, experts, elected officials, and stakeholders in every corner of Washington County to fully address the issues and develop concrete solutions.

In Dana Deree we have a leader with strong executive experience who is dedicated to bringing people together so we can make the most of what makes Washington County special while tackling the challenges head on.