City staff told the Hot Springs Board of Directors during an agenda review that they intend to submit a notice of intent to apply for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds administered by the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management to install permanent backup generators at the Hot Springs Community Resource Center (CRC) at 109 Hopson Avenue.

Grant writer Sarah Delozier said the CRC serves year-round as a hub for vulnerable and at-risk residents and is activated as an emergency shelter with a capacity of 112 beds. Staff received a high-level cost estimate from Lucas, Marriott & Associates on Sept. 11 that calls for two distinct 150-kilowatt generators (one for each building), electrical engineering fees, a concrete pad and a short gas line extension. The sizing is preliminary and would be confirmed by a detailed load calculation if the project advances.

Delozier said the state program (FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program administered by the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management) would cover 75% of the project if awarded; the city's estimated 25% local match is about $108,500 based on the $434,000 estimate. Staff said submitting the notice of intent preserves eligibility; the deadline for that submission is Oct. 17. If the city is selected for funding, staff will return to the board to accept the award and approve the local match through the formal process. The item is scheduled for board consideration on Oct. 21; no board action occurred during the agenda review.