Heber Springs Water and Wastewater Utility

The Commission reviewed and approved the FY2026 budget and an affidavit for record destruction. Reports were provided regarding bond fund expenditures, specifically for upcoming aeration system and pump house rehabilitation. Operational discussions covered the status of the annual audit, the replacement of faulty water meters, and ongoing maintenance at the water treatment plant and various lift stations. Furthermore, the Commission addressed planning initiatives including a hydraulic model, rate study, and master plan.

The Commission discussed several operational and administrative items. Key topics included a review of the bond project spending report, the approval of the FY26Q2 quarterly bad debt write-off, and the adoption of an Artificial Intelligence policy. The Commission also approved a 3.5% employee raise proposal. Reports from the Manager and engineering department covered equipment status such as meter replacements, wholesale contract updates, staff role changes, infrastructure projects like water main work and wastewater plant maintenance, and upcoming scheduling changes for the next meeting.

The commission reviewed checks over $2,000 and received an update on bond project spending regarding lagoon maintenance and headworks coating. Key business included the approval of wholesale water contracts and a requested policy variance regarding water main requirements. Operational discussions focused on water meter replacements, equipment failures and repairs at the water treatment plant, and lift station maintenance following recent storm activity. Additional topics included the procurement of a leak detector, status updates on staffing and training, and the upcoming bidding process for an aeration project.

The meeting included a review of checks over $2,000, a bond spending report, and a general manager's report. Key topics discussed included meter replacements due to screen issues, internet connectivity problems, server cabinet installation, cybersecurity updates, flushing and maintenance of hydrants, and repairs to leaks and sewer mains. Additionally, the commission discussed energy credits from Entergy regarding wastewater treatment plant upgrades, employee CDL training updates, and the cancellation of the December 2025 meeting.

The commission reviewed the bond spending report, noting funds will be allocated for aeration system and pump house rehabilitation. Approval was granted for an 18% rate increase for the Eden Isle Sewer Facilities Board. The commission approved an affidavit for record destruction. Reports provided updates on the replacement of faulty meters, federal compliance audits, and ongoing cyber security assessments. Operational reports included updates on leak repairs, valve installations, treatment plant deficiencies, and the maintenance contract with Eden Isle for lift stations. Planning activities were discussed, including an upcoming kick-off meeting for the master plan and hydraulic model, as well as antenna installation projects by AT&T.