The South Arkansas Fire Protection District (SAFPD) hereby announces the cancellation of the election scheduled to be held on May 6th, 2025. This cancellation comes due to the fact that there were no more candidates for Director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates.

Unfortunately, this cancellation is also accompanied by the resignation of two valued members of the SAFPD Board of Directors. Fred Jackson and Jeff Graf, whose terms have ended due to reaching the board term limits, will be stepping down. Their departure is a bittersweet moment for the district, as both individuals have made significant contributions to the board and the community over the years.

Fred Jackson has been a dedicated member of the SAFPD Board of Directors since 2008. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the department towards a direction that benefits not only the SAFPD program but the Salida and surrounding communities as a whole. Fred has been an active small business owner in the community, and his involvement on the SAFPD Board was a natural extension of his passion for giving back. His positive energy, commitment, and support will be greatly missed by all who have worked with him.

Jeff Graf has served on the SAFPD Board of Directors since 2018. In addition to his role on the board, Jeff has served as the County Coroner, dedicating much of his professional career to public service. He has also spent his free time coaching youth baseball, further exemplifying his dedication to the community. Jeff's steadfast support of the SAFPD Board and the program will leave a lasting impact, and he will be missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

While we are sad to see Fred and Jeff part ways from the board, we are deeply grateful for their years of service and the significant role they have played in supporting the South Arkansas Fire Protection District.

We extend our sincerest thanks to both Fred and Jeff for their dedication and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Thank you for your continued support of the South Arkansas Fire Protection District.