"We project to have a million folks in the region in a couple of decades," he said, pointing to the challenges growth will bring in infrastructure and services.

"The job of the judge is to coordinate our response to that growth."

"They tried to ram through a massive change without talking to the community and to stakeholders," he said. "We just need a different approach to county business that will bring everybody to the table."

Deree said he wants people to feel government listens to them and understands their concerns, something he said is not always the case as, for example, when the county proposed sweeping changes to its land use and zoning laws.

If you prefer, you can mail a check to Dana Deree for Washington County, 1847 North Choctaw Court, Fayetteville, AR 72701.

Chip in if you are ready for a Washington County government that listens and collaborates, balances the need for growth and affordable housing with protecting our natural beauty and the vitality of our farms, and rejects the ideological politics that are causing so much damage at the national level.

Challenging an incumbent - even one who only received 52% of the vote last time - requires robust resources. The ability to raise money is an indication of broad support, organizational skills, and trust in my ability to run a winning race and serve effectively. secure.actblue.com/donate/dddfo...

Change begins at the local level.

It is a little early for that.