KINGSLAND, Ark. – The Kingsland City Council has appointed Mayor-elect Samantha Johnson to complete the remainder of Mayor Karen Wiscaver’s term following a meeting Thursday night, according to reporting by the Cleveland County Herald.
Johnson, who was already elected to serve as Kingsland’s next mayor, will complete Wiscaver’s term through Dec. 31, 2026. Her elected term is set to begin Jan. 1, 2027.
The council action comes as Johnson and Kickstart Kingsland are beginning a separate fundraising campaign for a proposed Kingsland Amphitheater.
Johnson launched a GoFundMe campaign on June 20 seeking $25,000 for the project. The campaign describes the proposed amphitheater as a permanent outdoor gathering place that could host concerts, festivals, school functions, community celebrations, outdoor movies, fundraisers and family events throughout the year.
The fundraiser states that organizers hope to build the venue in time for the Get Rhythm Music Festival, which is scheduled for Sept. 26, 2026.
Johnson serves as community development director for Kickstart Kingsland, according to the fundraiser. Paul Abeyta Jr. is listed as the organization’s operations director.
Kickstart Kingsland’s campaign presents the amphitheater as a project intended to create a venue for local talent, attract visitors, support local businesses and provide additional opportunities for community events in the Johnny Cash birthplace.
The City Council’s reported $5,000 contribution and the online amphitheater fundraiser appear to be separate efforts. The council contribution was reported as funding for the Get Rhythm Music Festival, while the GoFundMe campaign is specifically seeking donations for construction of the proposed amphitheater.
More information about the fundraiser is available through the Kingsland Amphitheater GoFundMe campaign.
