Was Golf Complex Denial Racially Motivated?

The issue of race may have played a factor in the individuals from the neighborhood who spoke against the proposed golf course/apartment complex in Springdale on land owned by George.

Many of the same individuals had also fought unsuccessfully against Springdale’s school zone redistricting which would have brought in more of the hispanic population to nearby Walker Elementary and Helen Tyson Middle School.

Beck Campbell was the most outspoken against the project.

“Renters fall into three basic categories,” Campbell said, “individuals who are in transition, individuals who are transient in nature, and individuals who are not financially responsible enough to own a home.”

Lindsey said he understood Campbell’s motivation.

“You read what she said and decide what you think her motivation was,” Lindsey said. “I just hope the council wasn’t intimidated following that kind of mentality.”

When George spoke to the city council, he asked everyone in attendance to raise their hands if they had ever rented. Almost everyone raised a hand, including Campbell, Lindsey said.