Fixing Up the Old Girl
McLaughlin genuinely wanted to fix the city. He worked on ongoing issues such as flooding by installing more grilles and grates for run off.
He fixed the city hall’s roof ($5,000) which was not allowed previously due to budget concerns. With excess money he ordered repairs such as exterior paneling and window replacement. He personally inspected the repairs, ensuring they were done correctly and under budget. Any left over money was used for other projects such as fixing the women’s prison, replacing the city auditorium’s boiler, and repainting the health department offices.
Businesses, groups, and organizations flocked to Hot Springs for entertainment, which meant more revenue.
McLaughlin saved the city $500 dollars a month by restructuring the police department, which the tax payers approved. He cut the officers' pay and supplemented it through gambling pay offs.