Mayor Pat McCabe honors volunteers with proclamations in Hot Springs

The City of Hot Springs Board of Directors meeting on April 17, 2025, highlighted several significant community initiatives and updates, including proclamations of appreciation and upcoming environmental activities.

During the meeting, the board received two certificates of appreciation. The first was from the Junior Auxiliary of Hot Springs, recognizing the city and Mayor Pat McCabe for their support of volunteer efforts during National Junior Auxiliary Week, celebrated from April 6 to April 12. The second certificate was from the American Cancer Society, acknowledging the city's involvement in the 2025 Relay for Life event, titled "Tales of Hope."

Mayor McCabe also proclaimed April 25, 2025, as National Arbor Day in Hot Springs. The proclamation emphasized the importance of trees in the ecosystem, highlighting their benefits in reducing soil erosion, improving air quality, and enhancing property values. In conjunction with Arbor Day, the city will host a tree giveaway at the county library on April 22, where over 700 seedlings will be distributed to residents.

City Manager Bill Burrow provided updates on various city projects, including the ongoing street paving initiative, which has completed 30% of its goal for the year. He reported that 4.81 miles of city streets have been milled and paved, with plans to complete a total of 15.8 miles. Burrow also discussed the progress of the water plant project, which is expected to be operational by January 2026, and the upcoming Spring Fling event, scheduled for April 26-27, where residents can dispose of unwanted items free of charge.

Additionally, the meeting featured the installation of a new sculpture at the Gene White Wallace Trailhead, created by sculptor Michael Warrick. This installation is part of the ongoing development of the Greenway Trail, which aims to enhance community access to natural spaces.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to community engagement, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure development, with several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Hot Springs.