Need on-the-ground help

[Paul Kubin]

I have two properties in Fort Smith, Arkansas.  I purchased them with the help of a good friend who lives there and has managed them for me for the last year.  He has taken a job out of state and won't be able to manage them anymore.  I'd like to avoid hiring a property manager (I've heard uniformly bad things about them, not to mention the cost), and things are pretty stable (solid properties with great tennants).  I can do most of it remotely, but there are times where I really need someone on the ground to run an errand for me, like meet the utility company and show them where the trees need trimming near the power lines, to drain the water heater, etc.  I have a handyman I like, but I can't call on him for management errands.

1) Does anyone know anyone who might do this kind of stuff in Fort Smith?

2) Anyone have ideas on how to find someone?  I considered reaching out to the community college and asking for an enterprising business student who might need a little extra money and a letter of reference while he/she is learning real estate.  I am willing to pay a decent hourly when something needs to be done.  I'd rather avoid paying someone monthly, there is only work to be done intermittently.

Any ideas you all have would be much appreciated.