A second candidate has emerged for the Ward 7 position on the Little Rock Board of Directors.

Joe Gray, who served with the Little Rock Fire Department for over 30 years and retired as Chief Fire Marshal in 2018, has thrown his fire helmet in the ring, according to a press release from his campaign.

Gray is running for the Ward 7 seat currently held by City Director Brenda “B.J.” Wyrick. Wyrick, who serves as vice mayor, has represented Ward 7 for the past 31 years, but recently announced she would challenge Mayor Frank Scott Jr. in 2026 rather than running for another term as city director. 

Ward 7 covers much of Southwest Little Rock, with its northeast corner at the intersection of South University Avenue and Asher Avenue and its southwest corner at Fourth Street and County Line Road near Alexander. It is roughly 50% Black, 29% white and 15% Hispanic.

In his announcement, Gray said his “passion for public safety continues to drive [his] vision for our community.” He outlined three key areas for his campaign — commitment to public safety, focus on infrastructure improvement and a call for community engagement.

“I believe it is essential to foster meaningful community engagement, particularly with our youth,” he said. “By focusing on programs that provide support and opportunities for young people, we can help reduce crime and lower recidivism rates among adults, creating a safer and more vibrant Ward 7 for everyone.”

Gray is the second candidate to jump into the Ward 7 race, joining Rev. Benny Johnson, who announced his own run for the seat last week.