The Board Report, capturing major elements of the latest regular meeting of the Hot Springs Board of Directors, is part of the City of Hot Springs’ efforts to broaden its communications with the public. City Board meetings are open to the public, and agendas, minutes, and more information can be found at www.cityhs.net/Board or by contacting [email protected] 3, 2026Board Approval of Shared Information Systems Services Agreement with Garland County‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-20 authorizing an interlocal agreement between Garland County, Arkansas and the City of Hot Springs for certain Information System (IS) Services. This contract allows the City of Hot Springs to provide Information Systems (IS) services—such as technology support and system management—to Garland County. Under the agreement, Garland County pays the full cost for three City IS employees, along with a share of management and support costs for the City’s IS Director and Assistant Director.For Garland County, this means continued access to reliable, experienced technology services they have been satisfied with since 2009. For the City, the agreement brings in revenue that helps reduce technology costs that would otherwise be paid entirely by City taxpayers.Both the City and the County benefit from sharing staff and resources. When either organization experiences higher demand, staff shortages, or turnover, IS employees can support both operations as needed. This teamwork helps ensure consistent service and reduces disruptions. The agreement also allows both governments to save money by sharing costs on equipment and services and by purchasing technology at lower prices through combined buying power.City and County leaders meet regularly to review service quality and plan future technology needs. These discussions have been positive, and Garland County has expressed continued satisfaction with the services provided. As a result, the County has recommended approval of a two-year extension of this agreement.‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-19 awarding term contract to Communication Business Services, Inc. for answering services for the Utilities Department.‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-21 approving the purchase of a Caterpillar Backhoe from Riggs CAT Equipment ($135,608.88).‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-22 approving a change order to lease an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle and a $15,000 budget amendment. The lease is necessary to maintain required fire protection services while the airport’s ARFF vehicle remains out of service, ensuring continued compliance with federal aviation regulations.‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-23 approving the purchase of Cla-Val equipment for the water distribution system. The valves are needed to reduce and control water pressure in areas around Lake Hamilton after the new Water Treatment Plant goes into service, helping protect the system from excessive pressure. Cla-Val is the sole supplier of this equipment for the City. ($173,950)‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-24 authorizing a contract with Hanson Engineering, LLC for engineering design and construction management services for the 2026/2027 Water Line Improvement Projects. These projects are part of the City’s ongoing efforts to upgrade the water distribution system and will include water main and fire hydrant improvements at four locations. The contract covers engineering services only; construction is expected to begin in the spring.‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-25 approving the purchase of traffic signal equipment from Temple, Inc. The purchase is made as a sole-source procurement because the equipment is the only option compatible with the City’s existing traffic signal coordination system.‣ The Board passed Resolution 26-26 approving annual GPS mapping software and subscription services to maintain accurate City engineering and utility maps. These services help prevent utility damage, reduce emergency repairs, and control costs. ($26,592.80)‣ The Board passed Ordinance 26-05 waiving competitive bidding and authorizing a $25,000 contract with the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance to administer the City’s Public Art Program. The Alliance provides professional leadership for the program, supports the planning and placement of permanent and temporary public art, explores additional funding opportunities, and helps lay the groundwork for longterm public art planning for the City. ($25,000)‣ The Board passed Ordinance 26-06 authorizing short-term financing with U.S. Bancorp Government Leasing and Finance, Inc. for 2026 capital purchases totaling $2.19 million. The financing allows the City to purchase approved vehicles and equipment at a favorable interest rate of 3.628%, and the ordinance declares an emergency to secure the rate promptly.ComingEvents• Mardi Gras in the Spa February 15 from Noon-6 p.m. Bridge Street Entertainment District. (Dir. Marcia Dobbs-Smith 3)• First Ever 23rd Annual World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade - March 17, Events start at 3 p.m., at Bridge Street Live Entertainment District (Dir. Karen Garcia, District 5)• HomeStar Life & Home Improvment / US 97 Home & Outdoor ShowFebruary 6 -7, Hot Springs Convention Center, 134 Convention Blvd. • Community MeetingFebruary 12 at 5:30 p.m., Garland County Administration Building , 210 Woodbine Street. (Dir. Dudley Webb III, District 4)Other Board actions
Board of Directors City of Hot SpringsPat McCabeMayorErin HollidayDistrict 1Phyllis BeardDistrict 2Marcia Dobbs-SmithDistrict 3Dudley Webb, IIIDistrict 4Karen GarciaDistrict 5Steve TrustyDistrict 6To contact a board member, view a meeting agenda or check the date of the next board meeting, visit the “Board of Directors” webpage under the “Your Government” tab at www.cityhs.net.City Government at Your Service [email protected] • City of Hot Springs Public Information Department • 501-321-6806www.cityhs.net