Parks and Recreation Meeting Addresses Pool Maintenance and Butler Park Issues

The City of Hot Springs is taking significant steps to enhance community facilities and address maintenance issues following a recent city meeting held on August 18, 2025. The meeting highlighted key updates from the facility director regarding the local aquatics program and ongoing maintenance needs at various parks.

The facility director reported a slow rally week as school resumed, but efforts are underway to keep the outdoor pool open through Labor Day. There were four incidents reported at the pool in the past month, prompting a focus on safety and training. The aquatics director confirmed the recertification of two lifeguards, with additional training planned for another staff member, Lillian.

Maintenance concerns were a major topic, with requests for new fitness equipment and repairs to the outdoor pool and steam room. The fitness area is looking to replace a leg press and free weights, with funding considerations for the 2027 budget. Immediate repairs include plumbing issues in the men's locker room and ongoing roof inspections to address potential hidden problems.

In the parks and recreation segment of the meeting, community concerns were raised about poison ivy at Chautauqua Park and the need for tree watering at Butler Park. The basketball court at Butler Park remains designated for basketball use, with no current plans to convert it for pickleball, despite community interest.

City Administrator Jacqueline Kelsey provided updates on the lighting issues at the Butler Park basketball court, assuring attendees that the maintenance team will explore solutions. The resurfacing project for the basketball court has been completed and is now open for use.

The meeting concluded with a new regular meeting time set for 1 PM moving forward, ensuring continued engagement and oversight of community facilities. The next meeting is scheduled for September 11 at the Plunge, where further discussions on these important community issues will take place.