
Our Elected City Officials

Mayor
Ralph Carruth
Ralph was born in Malvern, Arkansas, and attended Magnet Cove schools before transferring to Poyen School, where he graduated.
He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Arkansas.
Ralph enjoyed a distinguished 42-year career with NASA, working at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, CA, and the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, AL. For the last 18 years of his career, he served as a Senior Executive.
After retiring in 2020, Ralph and his wife, Cindy, returned to the area where he grew up, settling in Diamondhead.

Treasurer/Recorder
John Barnhart
John was born and raised in Iowa, where he grew up on his family farm. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Iowa State University in 1970 and began his career as a Farm Supply Salesman with a cooperative in western Illinois.
In 1973, John relocated to Wisconsin, where he advanced through several roles, ultimately serving as Assistant General Manager and Operations Manager.
He returned to Iowa in 1982 to manage and operate the family farm. In 1996, John launched J&K Dryer Service, a small agri-business specializing in selling, constructing, and servicing grain handling, storage, and drying equipment.
After retiring from the agri-business world, John and his wife, Kathy, embraced the adventure of retirement. Following several trips, they chose Arkansas—and specifically Diamondhead—for its semi-rural charm and welcoming community. Their retirement home was completed in June 2022, and they’re thrilled to call Diamondhead home for good!

Council Position 1
Melanie Landrum
Melanie was born in Clarksville, Tennessee, and grew up in Memphis. Her career in education began in Memphis, where she served as both a teacher and a principal in Memphis City Schools for 28 years before retiring and moving to Arkansas with her husband, Charles.
They built their home in Diamondhead in 2007 and have loved being part of this wonderful community ever since.
After relocating, she continued working in education with the Arkansas State Department of Education and the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, until her second retirement in 2020. Over the years, she has served on the POA Board, is chairing the Social Committee, and now is holding a council position for the new City of Diamondhead.
Council Position 2
Juliana Robison
Juliana Robison is a passionate public servant dedicated to strengthening the Diamondhead community.
A proud mother of three and wife of fourteen years, Juliana combines personal commitment with professional expertise in her role as a city leader.
She holds three degrees from Henderson State University: a Bachelor’s in Political Science and History, a Bachelor of Science in Education, and a Master of Science in Education with a focus on leadership.
Her strong foundation in education and governance gives her a unique perspective on policy-making. Juliana’s approach centers on sustainable community development, educational excellence, and family-friendly initiatives—reflecting the values and priorities of Diamondhead residents. Her blend of political insight and educational experience continues to shape a vision for a thriving, inclusive community.

Council Postion 3
Leon Hess
Leon was born in Wichita, Kansas, and moved frequently with his family before settling in Memphis for his high school years. He graduated from Wooddale High School and earned a B.A. in English from the University of Memphis (formerly Memphis State).
Today, Leon is a seasoned software developer and IT executive, working with businesses both locally and across the country. He and his wife, Dana, have lived in Diamondhead since 2021 and in the Hot Springs area since 1999. Together, they enjoy traveling, exploring nature, and spending time with their four sons and five grandchildren.
Council Position 4
David Talbert
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Council Position 5
Pattie McCord
Born and raised in Hope, Arkansas, Pattie moved to Diamondhead in 2020.
She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and dedicated 43 years to the university, retiring in 2019 as Associate Registrar.
With a lifelong commitment to education and service, she is excited to bring her experience and passion to support the growth and development of the City of Diamondhead. She looks forward to working with others to help make the community an even better place to live.