Return to the main page for 2026 Elections at www.mysaline.com/2026-elections-campaign-announcements.
Benton resident Lamont Cornwell announced on April 22, 2026 his intent to run for the office of City Council. Read his full campaign announcement below.
All candidate announcements are their own words.
Lamont Cornwell, a veteran economic development leader and former state legislator, has officially announced his campaign for Benton City Council, Ward 5, in the 2026 election.
Cornwell currently serves as Executive Director of the Saline County Economic Development Corporation, where he leads efforts to recruit new businesses to the area while supporting the retention and expansion of existing industries.
A resident of Saline County since 1979, Cornwell brings decades of experience in both the public and private sectors. His career includes 27 years in the gas utility industry, where he worked in marketing, community relations, and economic development across a five-state region. He later transitioned into entrepreneurship, owning and operating a small business in Benton for 10 years.
Following his time in business, Cornwell served as State Representative for Saline County before continuing his public service as Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Benton.
He has also pursued advanced training in his field, completing a three-year community and economic development program at the University of Central Arkansas, along with additional coursework and workshops through the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Cornwell has been actively involved in numerous civic and service organizations throughout Saline County and Arkansas. He is a charter member of the Benton Public Utilities Commission and has held leadership roles including:
- President of the Benton Chamber of Commerce
- President of the Saline County Hospital Foundation
- Board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Benton
- Member of the Rotary Club
He has also participated in organizations such as the Saline County and Arkansas Homebuilders Associations, the Saline County Realtors Association, and currently serves on the board of the Metro Little Rock Alliance. He is also a member of Arkansas Economic Developers.
Cornwell is an active member of Benton First Baptist Church. He and his wife, Billie, have four married children and nine grandchildren.
With a background spanning business, government, and community leadership, Cornwell said he is focused on continuing to support Benton’s growth while maintaining a strong quality of life for residents.
“It is my honor to announce I am seeking the Benton City Council seat,” stated Cornwell. “I plan to use my experience in both public and private work environment to serve the people of Ward 5, the city of Benton and Saline County. I humble ask for your support. ‘Together we can make a difference!’”
Return to the main page for 2026 Elections at www.mysaline.com/2026-elections-campaign-announcements.
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