METRO  TASK  FORCE:  TAKING  ACTION  
ON  CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY

The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce’s new Metro Task Force working to improve the community

      Specialized task forces designed to examine issues on behalf of its membership are just one of the significant operational changes implemented in 2007 by The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber’s Metro Task Force is a group of Hot Springs business leaders who are examining key issues within the Hot Springs Metro area and how we, as a business organization, can aid in the improvement of certain areas of our community.      

Most recently, the Metro Task Force began a series of meetings with city and county officials to discuss local crime issues as they specifically relate to the City of Hot Springs and Garland County .  These meetings are focusing on a wide range of topics from the reporting system that produces national crime rates; to the availability of jail space; the priorities of law enforcement, communication system needs, as well as the issues concerning judges in sentencing.   The task force has already held its first meeting with Sheriff Larry Sanders and additional meetings are planned with Hot Springs Chief of Police Bobby Southard, Garland County Judge Larry Williams, District Court Judge Lynn Williams District Court Judge Marcia Hearnsberger, and Fire Chief Ed Davis.  

      “There are a number of complex issues that effect crime and the perception of crime in the Hot Springs Metro area.  The Metro Task Force will examine a number of these factors in depth and create a comprehensive understanding of local crime issues on behalf of the Chamber,” explains Dave Byerly, CEO of The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce. 

The Metro Task Force is comprised of a diverse group of community leaders who are very committed to doing what is necessary to make Hot Springs a desirable place to live and do business.  

“This task force was designed to look at facts, make recommendations and act in areas where Hot Springs might need some attention.  The task force is committed to the excellence of the community and wants to see it flourish,” said Dan Messersmith, Metro Task Force Chairman.  

The members of the task force are: Brian Bell, National Park Medical Center; Mike Dugan, Merritt Wholesale; Dan Messersmith, Duncan, Messersmith & Associates; James Montgomery, B & F Engineering; Lorna Nobles, Trademark Real Estate; Bryan Smith, Alliance Rubber Co.; Forrest Spicher, Regions Bank; Penny Thornton , The Sentinel-Record; John Vines, Wood Smith, Schnipper, Clay & Vines; Todd Woerpel, Selig Commercial Real Estate.  

Once the task force completes this series of meeting the findings will be compiled and presented to the Chamber Board of Directors.  The task force will also make recommendations to the Board as warranted.  

The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce is an active leadership force empowered by its membership to effect economic growth and community development while preserving the area’s high quality of life.

Ref.  Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce