Fire Chief Durham highlights $10M deferred maintenance and ARPA funding request

During the recent Board of Directors Agenda Meeting held on March 11, 2025, in Little Rock, significant discussions centered around the urgent needs of the city's fire department and the allocation of funds for facility improvements. Fire Chief Delphine Hubbard highlighted the critical state of the department's infrastructure, revealing over $10 million in deferred maintenance that has accumulated over the years. This alarming figure underscores the pressing need for repairs and upgrades to ensure the safety and efficiency of fire services in the community.

Chief Hubbard expressed gratitude for the $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds recently awarded to the fire department, which will be used to address some of these urgent repairs. The chief emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, providing an itemized list of how these funds will be utilized to improve facilities that serve both firefighters and the community.

The meeting also featured discussions about ongoing projects and the commitment of firefighters to report maintenance issues promptly. Chief Hubbard noted that the department is actively working with city administration to prioritize these concerns, ensuring that health and safety issues are treated as emergencies.

In addition to the fire department's needs, the meeting included acknowledgments of community members and city staff, fostering a collaborative atmosphere among board members. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing public safety and maintaining the city's infrastructure, which directly impacts the quality of services provided to residents.

As the city moves forward, the focus remains on addressing these critical needs, with plans for continued improvements in the fire department's facilities and resources. The outcomes of this meeting signal a proactive approach to ensuring that Little Rock's emergency services are well-equipped to serve the community effectively.