HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – The city of Hot Springs is hoping to meet the changing needs of the people who live there with the Forward Hot Springs city plan.
There are many different aspects, but one of the main goals right now is new zoning codes that will impact locals.
The last time zoning was done was in 2003 and since then the city has changed greatly. Now they’re hoping to get feedback from the public and meet the needs of today’s Hot Springs.
Kathy Sellman, the city’s planning and development director, said that this zoning is something needed in the community.
“Because people’s land is personal, and they have dreams for their land,” Sellman said.
Sellman said that this extensive plan hopes to update Hot Springs.
Over time, population, land and more can change, which is why modifying zoning codes, and possibly adding new zones, is a priority.
“Having more opportunities to have accessory dwellings, and many people know those as mother-in-law quarters or garage apartments, our code has been difficult with regard to having people be able to do those things, and they are things that they want,” Sellman said.
The new codes could mean more affordable housing, like being able to build smaller homes on smaller lots.
“And we learned that many people are having a very hard time finding decent housing that they can afford,” Sellman said.
Hot Springs’ charm makes the city what it is, changing that isn’t the goal, but meeting the needs of what the city looks like today is.
“Because we’re looking at how to keep the historic aspect of hot springs, but keep it relevant, not change the appearance, but make sure it’s meeting the needs of our residents, both today’s residents and residents that haven’t come here yet,” Sellman said.
This plan is in the beginning stages. Along the way, the city said they need the public’s help and feedback before they can take the next steps.
This will take several months to fully develop, and after a map has been created, it will go to the city planning commission who will provide feedback then to the city board of directors for approval.
There are public town hall meetings where you can express your thoughts on what the new codes and zones should look like on Mar. 13 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Garland County Library and from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Another town hall will be at the Hot Springs Transportation Depot from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
For more information on Forward Hot Springs, visit CityHS.net.