The Holiday Island Suburban Improvement District Commissioners met virtually via Zoom for a 38-minute special meeting Monday, June 29. A week before the district performed a test meeting to work out the functionality of the online platform, giving the members and the public an opportunity to become comfortable with the temporary interactive video format.
This practice run was determined a success but commissioners decided to also allow the public to physically attend the meeting if they did not have online access. All attendees were required to wear a face covering while inside the building and keep a six-ft. social distance before, during, and after the meeting.
Commissioner Dan Kees said that despite the health pandemic there have been four new building permits issued in 2020 noting, “Real estate is looking pretty good in Holiday Island.” Commission Chair Ken Brown was encouraged saying “That’s great that we are seeing a positive financial uptick here.”
HISID was awarded $15,000 from the Arkansas Rural Community Grant Program to construct two double walled 4,400-gallon storage tanks to hold liquid road deicing chemicals for improving road conditions during inclement weather. Arkansas State Senator Bob Ballinger supported the district’s request for the grant in a letter to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission saying, “This is a much-needed project that will benefit the district and its citizens.”
District Manager Lawrence Blood said the total project cost is estimated at $36,000 and is a preemptive measure to help avoid dangerous road conditions and support driver safety during winter. Blood reminded the public that the district approved the application in February for the 50/50 matching grant requiring the district to match its grant award if received.
“I think it is great that we have received the funds already,” commissioner Nita Holley said.
Brown thanked Blood and his staff for their work at keeping both the golf club and the swimming pool open during the pandemic. He also reminded the public that the Independence celebratory fireworks have been postponed to July 2, 2021.
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 20.