Ark. Code Ann. § 14-58-301: Administration of provisions

(a) For the purpose of assisting the mayor of a first-class city in carrying out the provisions of this subchapter, the municipal governing body may appoint one (1) or more committees, to be composed from its membership, or, by ordinance, it may create one (1) or more departments, fixing the compensation and manner of employment for the employees thereof.

(b) The persons appointed to fill any offices or to head any departments shall be responsible to the mayor and act under his direction.