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What Happened at the Water & Sewer Committee meeting

Highfill Highlights

Posted July 28, 2026

The Highfill Water & Sewer Committee met on Monday, July 27, 2026, to receive public input and review updates on the City’s water and wastewater infrastructure, capital improvement projects, and utility operations.

Public Comment

During the public comment period, a resident from the Gailey Hollow area shared concerns about the lack of public water service in the area. The resident described the challenges of hauling water for multiple households and thanked City staff for maintaining communication regarding potential future service.

Committee members discussed the challenges associated with extending water infrastructure into rural areas, including funding availability, engineering requirements, and regulatory considerations. No action was taken during the public comment period.

Capital Improvement Projects

ESI Engineer Jeff Dehnhardt provided updates on several utility infrastructure projects currently underway.

Lift Station No. 2

  • Lift Station No. 2 is substantially complete and operational.
  • During the warranty period, staff identified a structural issue with a concrete valve vault lid.
  • The contractor submitted a replacement plan, and the City conditionally approved the proposed replacement.
  • The contractor will complete the repairs after mobilizing back to the project site.

Booster Pump Station

  • The City recently opened bids for a new booster pump station near the existing Tilly Hill Road facility.
  • The project is designed to increase pumping capacity.
  • The increased capacity will improve system reliability and support future growth.

18-Inch Water Transmission Main

  • The City also received bids for the 18-inch water transmission main project.
  • The transmission main will improve water delivery throughout the system and support long-term infrastructure needs.

Utility Operations Update

Public Works Director Dustin Kahrl presented an update on utility operations and system growth.

Key updates included:

  • The City’s water system has grown from approximately 2,077 active water meters to 2,285 active water meters over the past year.
  • Highfill’s population has increased by approximately 30 percent during the same period.
  • Water demand continues to increase as residential and commercial development expands.
  • Staff continues to monitor water production, system performance, and water loss while maintaining daily operations.

Funding and Long-Term Planning

The committee discussed current and future infrastructure funding opportunities.

Topics included:

  • Grant applications submitted for water and wastewater improvement projects.
  • Regional water supply challenges affecting Northwest Arkansas.
  • Rising wholesale water costs.
  • Long-term planning to maintain reliable utility service while meeting state regulatory requirements and supporting future growth.

Meeting Adjournment

After completing the agenda and committee discussion, the meeting adjourned.

The City appreciates residents who attend committee meetings and provide public input. Community participation helps inform discussions as Highfill continues planning for future water and wastewater infrastructure improvements.

The next regular Water & Sewer Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Audio and video recordings from the July 27, 2026, Water & Sewer Committee meeting are available below:
• Audio Recording
• Video Recording

To learn more about the Water & Sewer Committee, visit the Water & Sewer Committee page.

Water & Sewer Committee Vacancy

The City of Highfill is currently seeking one additional member to serve on the Highfill Water & Sewer Committee.

If you’re interested in contributing to your community and helping shape the future of Highfill’s water and sewer services, we encourage you to apply. Citizen volunteers play an important role in supporting City initiatives and providing valuable input to the City Council.

For more information or to apply, please visit the City of Highfill Employment & Board Vacancies page.

It’s My Town!