Arkansas Code Title 14. Local Government § 14-234-801. Findings--Definitions

(1) Oversight of providers in the state is primarily handled by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission and the Department of Health;

(2) The oversight of these providers is spread out and results in the inability of a single state entity to monitor and help initiate necessary changes in public access of water, rate structures, the sustainability of the providers, and the protection of consumer rights;

(3) While local control is important, the current landscape of providers has the potential to create inefficiencies in service and instability in fiscal management;

(4) Combining smaller providers may be necessary in some areas in order to guarantee dependable and plentiful provision of water and to avoid unsustainable rate increases;

(5) Many providers have an aging workforce, and there is a need for education of the governing bodies of these providers concerning the importance of recruiting and retaining an expert workforce; and

(6) Training of local, state, and federal leaders on issues surrounding provider personnel, finances, compliance, and environmental factors is needed.

(1) “Commission” means the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission;

(2) “Provider” means any provider of retail water service; and

(3) “Provider board” means the governing body of a provider, whether the governing body is organized as a board, commission, committee, council, or other type of entity.