Hot Springs council approves airport grant and building demolition resolution

The City of Hot Springs, Arkansas, held a Board of Directors meeting on May 27, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including grant approvals, property condemnations, and construction project updates.

The meeting commenced with a review of a previously approved resolution, 10646, which authorized the airport to apply for a grant from the state aeronautics department for repairs on specific hangar roofs. The board confirmed that the grant request was approved for an 80/20 funding split, with the total project cost estimated at $40,200. The local share required from the city amounts to $8,040, which necessitated a budget adjustment to accommodate this expense.

Following this, the board addressed resolution R25107, which involved declaring a structure at 214 Potter Street a nuisance and condemning it for demolition. Chief Building Official Mike Scott reported that the property, owned by Martha Kalix, had been vacant and that Kalix had consented to the demolition on February 7. A title search confirmed her sole ownership, and it was noted that she was current on property taxes. The resolution aims to clear the site of both the main residence and a smaller garage structure.

The meeting continued with the consideration of resolution R25108, which approved a cost-saving change order for the construction of Phase 1 of the Lower Gulf of Interceptor project. Project Manager Todd Pillar explained that through value engineering with Coakley Company, significant savings of $1,281,266 were achieved. This was primarily due to adjustments made in collaboration with the Arkansas Department of Transportation, allowing for more efficient construction methods.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to manage infrastructure improvements and property maintenance effectively. The board's decisions reflect a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community safety, with follow-up actions planned to implement the discussed resolutions.