Rich Hillman will continue as president of Arkansas Farm Bureau after being reelected during the organization’s annual convention on Thursday, Dec. 3.
Hillman was first elected to the president role after former president Randy Veach retired in December 2019. He previously served as the organization’s vice president for 11 years.
“I am once again humbled and honored to be chosen to lead Arkansas Farm Bureau,” Hillman said in a statement. “Arkansas farmers and ranchers are critical to this state and our country and that’s only become more evident during this challenging year. I look forward to working on their behalf for a better, brighter future.”
The Arkansas Farm Bureau convention was virtually this year, with delegates holding elections for the president position and eight board members. The voting members also established Arkansas Farm Bureau’s policy priorities for the coming year.
Mike Freeze and Dan Wright will resume their positions as vice president and secretary/treasurer, respectively.
Seven board members were reelected this year for two-term years. These members include Caleb Plyler of Hope; Joe Christian of Jonesboro; Rusty Smith of Des Arc; Jeremy Miller of Huntsville; Tom Jones of Pottsville; Terry Dabbs of Stuttgart; and Dan Wright.
Jack Evans of Carlisle was also elected to the board. He was the only new member elected.
During the convention, delegates established a range of priorities for 2021. Some of these priorities include reinstating a state meat inspection for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture and program funding, as well as improving the Levee and Drainage Board structure. Members also supported increasing broadband access sources and expanding state lemon laws to cover additional farm vehicles.
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