Public Services Committee focuses: infrastructure, communication, and safety

Walt Black, Chair of the Public Services Committee, began his January 15, 2025, address to the Hot Springs Village Board Directors by explaining the purpose of the Public Services Committee. The committee advises the public services director and staff on infrastructure, facilities, and related matters. He highlighted the vast scope of public services, including but not limited to water, wastewater, culverts, and roads. The committee also focuses on traffic safety issues.

Walt likened the committee to the eyes and ears in assisting the public services staff. The members are spread throughout the village, tasked daily with observing and reporting areas needing enhancement or repair. With 12 members, the committee is now at full strength for the first time since Walt came on board, which he noted as a significant achievement.

The committee comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, including engineering, science, technical skills, IT, and communications. This varied composition enhances their overall output. The terms are staggered three-year terms; four members’ terms will expire in May. New members must be recruited if the members with expiry terms choose to leave the committee.

Exciting Initiatives by the Public Services Committee!

Walt then provided a comprehensive overview of the committee’s activities from the past six months, delving into ongoing projects and outlining future plans.

• The Cortez Lift Station, a significant project with a multimillion-dollar budget, is in progress. Walt said, “You will probably hear about this project for a while.” To date, approximately half a million dollars have been spent. Major components like the building, pump, and generator are being fabricated, and most piping will be done in-house, which will save money by utilizing the staff’s expertise. Staff will work on the installation of the pipes as time allows. GM Ken Unger and Matt Broom, Public Services Director, push to self-execute tasks whenever possible to realize cost savings.

• Another major project, the wastewater plant consolidation, is about 30% designed. The design, handled by an engineering firm, aims to standardize equipment. Public Services will carry out some rough dirt work in-house, again saving money by using filler work. This project is expected to be a multi-year effort, which is estimated to come in at a cost of $40 to $45 M. This article touches on wastewater plant consolidation.

• Road work is a continuous project. The Public Services Committee regularly surveys roads, and their efforts last summer identified specific areas needing repair. There is a shift towards residential street road work. The committee prioritizes areas for the public services staff to address.

• Culvert maintenance is another ongoing effort. With more than 1,000 culverts around the village, keeping them clean is a constant task. Over half of the identified problematic culverts have been completed, and the completion list continues to grow. The committee and public services department continue to evaluate different culvert repair and replacement options.

• Regarding water rights, GM Ken Unger has initiated discussions with Hot Springs about transferring our Lake Ouachita water rights. The agreement, expected to be finalized this month, will save around $42,000 annually. This agreement was made under a former administration, and as it stands, the village has no way of accessing this water or moving it into the village, but the agreement is useful to Hot Springs. Visit here and look under the subheading, “Transferring a Contract to Someone Who Can Use it,” to read about this transfer of water rights.

• The committee is also exploring secondary water sources for the village, identifying old wells and potential piping to Lake Lagos as options. Another possible emergency water source could be tapping into Lake Cortez.

• A few months ago, the Coronado Fitness Center pool underwent a transformation, switching from a chlorine-based system to a saltwater system. This change has received glowing feedback from the community, praising the improved water quality and reduced odors. Additionally, this conversion has proven to be a cost-saving measure. Temporary measures are in place for humidity and temperature in the pool area. The committee continues to explore options to improve and enhance the pool.

• With over 100 POA-owned buildings, the committee aims to push for more facility condition inspections. They want to collaborate with staff to regularly inspect the POA’s buildings and potentially implement a building manager program.

• The road safety enhancement program is conducted in collaboration with the police department. A new committee member with extensive ARDOT traffic expertise contributes significantly to traffic flow and safety improvement solutions. Walt explained, “The village is really very safe right now, but as vegetation grows and line of sight becomes a problem, right of way clearing, etc – this is where the committee can come into play.” The committee will continue to look at ways to enhance public safety on village roadways.

• Lastly, the committee emphasizes resident education and communication. With several long-term, big-ticket projects in progress, the committee plans to set up a communication program to keep residents informed. Monthly articles for various communication media will ensure residents know about ongoing and future initiatives.

Ready to make a real impact in Hot Springs Village?

While there are currently no Public Services Committee openings, that situation may change in May, when several terms are set to expire. The Public Services Committee always looks for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals like you! This is an incredible opportunity to dive into community engagement, infrastructure projects, and more, all while making a positive difference in our beautiful village.

As a member of the Public Services Committee, you’ll collaborate with a dynamic team of professionals committed to enhancing our community’s infrastructure and quality of life. Your contributions will be pivotal in promoting and maintaining the many amenities, public services, and unique qualities that make Hot Springs Village an amazing place to live and visit.

Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of something great! Apply now to get on the list. Send your applications via email to Julie White, Administrative Assistant to the General Manager at JWhite@hsvpoa.org. Applications are available here and can also be submitted in person at the HSVPOA Administration Building, 895 DeSoto Boulevard, with attention to the administrative assistant.

By Cheryl Dowden; Media by Joe Dowden