Community Support Update – Chief Kristi Bennett

Community Support

Hot Springs Village Police Chief Kristi Bennett updated the HSVPOA Board of Directors at the Board Retreat on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Chief Bennett oversees two divisions: Community Support and the Police Department. This report addresses Community Support.

Tom Benfield, Community Support Manager, has managed the Community Support Department since the end of 2023, when it underwent a rebranding from Compliance to Community Support.

There are two full-time Community Support Officers and two part-time Officers. Over 1200 compliance cases were opened and closed in 2023, and almost 1200 cases have already been resolved this year.

The areas under Benfield’s purview are:

• Community Complaint Investigations
• Animal Control
• Gates Management
• Beach Patrol
• Non-Profit Organization Coordination

Animal Control

Two full-time Animal Control Officers (ACO) and one part-time animal control technician are on staff. Bennett exclaimed, “We have the most efficient shelter in the area. I haven’t found a shelter as clean and efficient as this one we have here in the Village – ever – anywhere!”

Over 238 dogs and 157 cats were processed in 2023 / 2024.

Gate Management

Gate management is one of the biggest responsibilities for Community Support. The Village has seven gates; two gates are manned.

Benfield oversees the security contract for the manned gates. Three companies, including Securitas, our current gate security company, are in the running for the next gate contract.

Beach Patrol (Seasonal)

The Beach Patrol Department was very successful last year. Benfield is currently interviewing candidates for Beach Patrol jobs.

Community Support Accomplishments

1. Animal Control Incinerator – researched value and found a buyer who paid $8,000. This increased the Animal Control storage area.
2. Rewrote Standard Operating Procedures. Delivered clear and concise guidance for daily operations. This is a continuing process.
3. 2023 Beach Patrol season success! – Superb operation/oversight with low violations observed. Great experience for property
   owners/families.
4. increased Animal Welfare League (AWL) coordination – Built strong relationships with AWL leaders for effective teamwork and communications.
5. Implemented the use of the “Shelter Manager” website for effective tracking of animals.
6. Acquired Net Gun for Animal Control. Increased capability to safely capture elusive animals.
7. Completed Goose Pond Gate upgrade. Updated old system for reliable service and modern operation.
8. Over 1200 cases opened – Observed violations and responded to complaints. Tracked violations to closure.
9. 1081 cases closed – Improved properties’ aesthetics in accordance with Protective Covenants/County Ordinances.
10. Community Support transition – Implementing a plan for new department direction to create increased communication/relationship with property owners.