Fort Smith public meetings in 2025

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting / Special Study Session

The Board of Directors will hold a public hearing to adopt the fiscal year 2026 Operating Budget and consider an ordinance to amend the 2025 Budget. The meeting includes several contract approvals for infrastructure and climate projects.

• Public hearing and ordinance to adopt the fiscal year 2026 Operating Budget
• Contract with Western Millwright Commercial Construction, Inc. for Alleyway Rehabilitation Project ($2,744,272.50)
• Agreement with Francis Energy, LLC for electric vehicle charging stations ($3,250,000.00)
• Professional services agreement with McClelland Consulting Engineers, Inc. ($177,653.00)
• Lease agreement with Sebastian County for the Ben Geren Regional Park aquatics facility

River Valley Communications Center Board - Regular Meeting

The River Valley Communications Center Board will present the 2026 operating budget and a consolidation plan for July 1st. These items follow a previous decision to cease design and engineering at 4501 Burrough Road.

• Presentation of 2026 Operating Budget totaling $3,495,362
• Presentation of 2026 Consolidation Plan for July 1st
• Discussion of temporary location of consolidated operations at Fort Smith PD for 2.5 years

Board of Directors - Special Meeting

The Board of Directors will hold a special meeting to conduct candidate interviews for the position of City Administrator during an executive session.

• Interviews for City Administrator candidates: Scot Rigby, Dean Johnson, Matthew Harline, and Jeff Dingman

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning and development plan for the Boy Scouts of America to allow office use in an existing building. The body will also review plat applications for a property at 2313 Royal Scots Way.

• Rezoning request #34-12-25: Change 0.70 acres at 1401 Old Greenwood Road from RSD-2 to Transitional (T)
• Development Plan #23-12-25: Office use in a proposed Transitional zone at 1401 Old Greenwood Road
• Preliminary and Final Plat approval for 0.54 acres at 2313 Royal Scots Way to combine a portion of the former Fianna Hills Golf Course with Lot 1323

Board of Directors - Study Session

The Board of Directors will discuss a request from Fort Smith Cemeteries, Inc. for the City to assume operational responsibility for Rose Lawn, Holy Cross, and Forest Park cemeteries. Staff reports indicate that contracted grass cutting alone would cost at least $100,000 per year, which is not currently in the 2026 budget.

• Request for City to assume responsibility for Rose Lawn, Holy Cross, and Forest Park cemeteries
• Estimated $100,000 annual cost for contracted grass cutting at cemeteries
• Presentation of initial survey data for the Five-Year Consolidated Plan
• Discussion on non-consent towing procedures policy
• Review of preliminary agenda for the December 16, 2025 regular meeting

Property Owners Appeal Board - Appeal Hearing

The Property Owners Appeal Board will consider an appeal from Charles Tidwell regarding a $2,054.62 lien for tree removal and code enforcement fees. The Neighborhood Services Department performed the abatement after the property was found in violation of nuisance ordinances involving dead trees.

• Appeal of property cleanup lien: $2,054.62
• Property address: 1515 North 34th Street
• Abatement services provided by All American Tree Service

The Property Owners Appeal Board denied an appeal regarding a $2,054.62 delinquent cleanup lien for a dead tree at 1515 North 34th Street. The board voted to keep the lien in full and instructed staff to present an ordinance certifying the lien plus a 10% penalty to the Board of Directors for placement on tax records. The meeting concluded with the approval of previous minutes and an adjournment.

• Denied appeal of $2,054.62 cleanup lien (3-0)
• Ordered ordinance for lien certification with 10% penalty to be presented to Board of Directors
• Approved minutes from July 14, 2025, and September 4 and 10, 2025
• Adjourned meeting at 11:31 a.m.

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will consider several rezoning ordinances, including changing 3706 Towson Avenue from Industrial Light Special to Industrial Light to allow an RV park. They will also vote on multiple capital improvement plans for streets, parks, police, fire, and other departments, along with consent agenda items for legal services, insurance, and grants.

• Rezoning 3706 Towson Avenue from I-1 SPL to I-1 for a 5.02-acre RV park with 39 pads (Item 1)
• Rezoning 3505 Johnson Street from RM-3 to Planned Zoning District (Item 2)
• Rezoning 1815 and 1819 Wirsing Avenue from I-2 to RSD-4 (Item 3)
• Resolution approving 2026-2030 Sales Tax Program for Streets, Bridges, and Drainage ($2,354,800 for 2026 Sidewalk Program) (Item 6A/6B)
• Resolutions approving capital improvement plans for parks, solid waste, transit, water, wastewater, police, and fire (Items 6C–6J)

River Valley Communications Center Board - Regular Meeting

The River Valley Communications Center Board will hold a regular meeting to continue discussing budgetary items for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The meeting is scheduled for November 20, 2025, at 3:00 pm at The Blue Lion in Fort Smith.

• Continued discussion on 2026 and 2027 budgetary items
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Meeting at The Blue Lion, Room 2, 101 North 2nd Street

The board voted 9-0 to cease all design and engineering at 4501 Burrough Road and remove it from consideration as a site for consolidated 911 operations, after the Fort Smith Board of Directors rejected a Motorola purchase due to cost concerns. The board also rescinded the previously approved 2026 budget (9-0), and tabled a motion to set a consolidation date of July 1, 2026, with temporary relocation to Fort Smith PD, until a finalized budget is presented.

• Ceased design and engineering at 4501 Burrough Road and removed location from consideration (9-0)
• Rescinded previously approved 2026 budget (9-0)
• Tabled motion to set full consolidation date to July 1, 2026, with temporary PSAP at Fort Smith PD for 2.5 years (9-0)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (unanimous)

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to certify $175,230.01 in delinquent property cleanup liens to the Sebastian County Tax Collector. Other actions include establishing requirements for Board study session review of major capital projects, amending business license fees and solid waste charges, and awarding a $2.19 million contract for the Alleyway Rehabilitation Project. The consent agenda includes several property and contract approvals.

• Public hearing and ordinance certifying $175,230.01 in delinquent property cleanup liens to Sebastian County Tax Collector (326 liens, 152 properties, 143 owners).
• Ordinance to establish Board study session review of major capital projects before approval (sponsored by Catsavis/Martin).
• Ordinance amending business license fees (Chapter 13, Article III).
• Ordinance amending solid waste service charges (Section 25-278).
• Resolution awarding $2,189,410 contract to Western Millwright Commercial Construction for Alleyway Rehabilitation Project (funded by Climate Pollution Reduction Grant).

Board of Directors - Budget Hearing

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will hold a budget hearing to introduce and discuss the proposed 2026 operating budget. The meeting includes a review of the city's financial condition and revenues and expenses for the General Fund, Solid Waste Fund, Streets Maintenance Fund, and Water and Sewer Fund.

• Introduction of Proposed 2026 Operating Budget
• Discussion of City's financial condition
• General Fund – review of revenues and expenses
• Solid Waste Fund – review of revenues and expenses
• Water and Sewer Fund – review of revenues and expenses

Future Fort Smith Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will meet to receive a presentation from Deputy Chief of Police Anthony Parkinson. Members will also debrief on a Leadership Fort Smith discussion and receive updates from the Parks and Planning Commissions.

• Guest speaker: Deputy Chief of Police Anthony Parkinson
• Debrief on Leadership Fort Smith discussion
• Parks Commission update from Sam Hanna
• Planning Commission update from Vicki Newton

River Valley Communications Center Board - Special Meeting

The River Valley Communications Center Board is meeting to discuss the purchase of radio infrastructure, equipment, and installation from Motorola Solutions, Inc. for a planned facility at 4501 Burrough Road. The board is evaluating the project's funding and its impact on the 2027 budget.

• Proposed Motorola radio infrastructure purchase totaling $5,332,928.35
• Potential $713,497 discount available through November 21, 2025
• Discussion of 20-year funding for facility construction with an estimated annual cost of $409,960
• Review of 2026 RVCC Budget with $4,037,400 in revenue and $4,313,392 in operating expenses
• Purchase of Priority Dispatch/ProQA protocol dispatching software for $380,913

The board approved a $5,332,928.35 purchase of Motorola radio infrastructure and installation, with five annual payments starting in February 2027. The 8-1 vote passed after discussion about cost allocation between Fort Smith (69.7%) and Sebastian County (30.3%). Members raised concerns about county and city ability to pay, and the board tabled a question about waiving 2026 personnel reimbursements for further discussion with city and county governing bodies. Minutes from October 25 were also approved 9-0.

• Approved minutes from October 25, 2025 meeting (9-0)
• Approved Motorola Solutions proposal for radio infrastructure, equipment, and installation (8-1, Tom Sizemore opposed)
• Tabled discussion on waiving personnel reimbursements for Fort Smith, Sebastian County, and FS EMS in 2026 to fund first payment

Board of Directors - Special Meeting / Study Session

The Board of Directors is meeting to decide on several tabled contracts for public safety and infrastructure projects. The session includes a review of proposed Capital Improvement Plans for water, wastewater, police, and fire departments for 2026-2035.

• Agreement with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for River Valley Communications Center radio equipment: $5,333,048.50
• Contract with Timco Blasting and Coatings, Inc. for 2016 SSA Remedial Measures (Sub-Basin P008): $17,741,767.50
• Contract with Morgan Contracting, Inc. for 2017 SSA Remedial Measures (Sub-Basin FL02): $9,111,352.00
• Engineering services agreement with Hawkins-Weir Engineers, Inc. for Project No. 17-13-EC1: $658,300.00
• Engineering services agreement with Hawkins-Weir Engineers, Inc. for Project No. 19-19-EC1: $344,250.00

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will consider several land use requests including rezoning for industrial and residential properties. The agenda includes a request for an RV park on Towson Avenue and a restaurant with drive-through services on Rogers Avenue.

• Rezoning: 3706 Towson Avenue from I-1-SPL to I-1
• Development Plan: RV park at 3706 Towson Avenue
• Variance: 1815 and 1819 Wirsing Avenue regarding lot width
• Variance: 8450 Rogers Avenue for parking and landscaping requirements
• Development Plan: Restaurant with drive-through at 8450 Rogers Avenue

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider two ordinance rezonings: one at 5724 Wheeler Avenue from RM-3 to C-5 for an event center, and another at 8716 Rogers Avenue from RSD-2/C-5 to C-2. The board also faces multiple resolutions for sewer remedial measures contracts funded by 2025 Sales and Use Tax Bonds, including a $17.7 million contract with Timco Blasting and Coatings. A tabled resolution for a $1.65 million vehicle wash bay and a consent agenda with items like $5.3 million for radio infrastructure will also be decided.

• Ordinance rezoning 5724 Wheeler Avenue from Residential Multifamily Medium Density (RM-3) to Commercial Heavy (C-5) for an event center
• Ordinance rezoning 8716 Rogers Avenue from Residential Single-family Duplex Low/Medium Density (RSD-2) and Commercial Heavy (C-5) to Commercial Light (C-2)
• Resolution awarding $17,741,767.50 contract to Timco Blasting and Coatings for SSA Remedial Measures Sub-Basin P008
• Resolution (tabled) authorizing $1,649,700.00 agreement with Steve Beam Construction for Solid Waste Services Vehicle Wash Bay
• Consent Agenda: Resolution accepting $5,333,048.50 bid from Motorola Solutions for radio infrastructure for River Valley Communications Center

River Valley Communications Center Board - Regular Meeting

The River Valley Communications Center Board will consider adopting a $4.3 million 2026 operating budget that consolidates Fort Smith telecommunicators as RVCC employees with no general fund impact on the city or county. The board will also discuss funding for the new facility at 4501 Burrough Road, including a lease agreement with Motorola for radio equipment and a proposed purchase of Priority Dispatch ProQA dispatching software.

• 2026 operating budget of $4,329,340 with no general fund impact to Fort Smith or Sebastian County
• Transfer of Fort Smith dispatchers and supervisors from Police Department to RVCC employment
• Lease agreement with Motorola Solutions for radio infrastructure and installation at new facility
• Purchase of Priority Dispatch ProQA software for emergency medical, fire, and police dispatching ($380,913 implementation and year 1 maintenance)
• Discussion of using AR State 911 Board revenue exclusively for facility construction, temporarily increasing city/county operating costs

The River Valley Communications Center Board approved the 2026 operating budget and a software purchase, but tabled a $5.3 million radio infrastructure contract to gather more information on costs and member availability.

• Approved 2026 RVCC budget (6-0)
• Approved Priority Dispatch/ProQA software purchase (6-0)
• Tabled $5.3M radio infrastructure purchase until Nov 4 special meeting (6-0)
• Set special meeting for Nov 4, 2025 at 1pm in Fort Smith Police Dept Community Room

Board of Directors - Study Session

The Board will consider proposed Capital Improvement Plans for streets, bridges, drainage, parks, solid waste, and transit for the next five to ten years. Funding is affected by the voters' reduction of the sales tax from 1% to 5/8% in the 2025 special election. The Board also will discuss an ordinance requiring study session review of any capital project estimated to cost $500,000 or more before full board consideration. A preliminary agenda for the November 4 regular meeting will be reviewed.

• Five-year CIP for streets, bridges, and drainage proposes $32.6 million in 2026 spending, including $7.4 million for street overlays and $5.7 million for neighborhood drainage.
• Ten-year CIP for Public Works/Streets and Traffic Control and Sidewalk Program.
• Discussion of ordinance requiring Board study session review of major capital projects with estimated costs of $500,000 or more.
• Five-year CIP for Parks and Recreation funded by the 1/8% sales tax.
• Transit Asset Management Plan presented for review.

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will consider several resolutions including employee insurance coverage renewals and a liquid chlorine purchase for water treatment. Additionally, the board will review payments for traffic signal detection improvements on Rogers Avenue and Phoenix Avenue, and a new vehicle wash bay for Solid Waste Services.

• Employee insurance renewal agreements for medical, dental, life, and disability coverage
• Purchase of liquid chlorine for 2025-2026 water treatment at Lake Fort Smith & Lee Creek
• Partial payment of $1,559,421.30 for 2024 Traffic Signal Detection Improvements (Project No. 24-09-B)
• Construction of a Solid Waste Services Department Vehicle Wash Bay for $1,649,700.00
• Contract for the purchase of renewable natural gas from Clean Energy Fuels

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will consider a request to rezone 5724 Wheeler Avenue from Residential Multifamily to Commercial Heavy and amend the Master Land Use Plan for an event center. Other items include a convenience store with gasoline sales at 3825 Jenny Lind Road, a drive-through restaurant at Grand Avenue, a sports complex at 5615 South 73rd Place, and a shopping center at 8716 Rogers Avenue. Several variance requests for setbacks and parking are also on the agenda.

• Rezoning, land use amendment, and development plan for an event center at 5724 Wheeler Avenue
• Conditional use for a convenience store with gasoline sales at 3825 Jenny Lind Road
• Conditional use and variance for a drive-through restaurant at 4322-4328 Grand Avenue
• Conditional use for a sports complex and variance at 5615 South 73rd Place
• Rezoning and development plan for a shopping center with drive-through at 8716 Rogers Avenue

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board will consider annexing a 45-acre unincorporated enclave at Highway 271 and Texas Road, along with rezoning the parcels into several classifications (Mixed-Use Residential, Office/Research/Light Industrial, Industrial Light, etc.). They will also receive the 2026 Proposed Operating Budget presentation, set 2025 millage rates totaling 8 mills (5 general, 1 library, 1 police pension, 1 fire pension), and vote on multiple contracts and project completions.

• Annexation of 45-acre enclave (20 parcels) at Highway 271/Texas Road
• Rezoning of parcels within enclave to Mixed-Use Residential, Office/Research/Light Industrial, and Industrial Light Special
• Millage ordinances: 5.0 mills general, 1.0 mill library, 1.0 mill police pension, 1.0 mill fire pension for 2025
• Emergency sewer rehabilitation: $130,000 to Vortex Services and $304,762 to Krapff-Reynolds Construction
• Loaned personnel agreement with Burns & McDonnell for engineering staff augmentation up to $155,121.80

Parks and Recreation Commission - Regular Meeting

The Parks and Recreation Commission will consider and potentially vote on the FY26-FY30 Capital Improvement Plan funded by the 1/8% parks sales tax, after action was postponed in September due to commissioner absences. They will also hear a proposal from a local Girl Scout for a mural project at Woodlawn Park and receive updates on project statuses, including cost overruns at Cisterna Park requiring redesign.

• Formal action on FY26-FY30 Capital Improvement Plan ($8.93M in FY26 projects, funded by 1/8% sales tax)
• Proposed Girl Scout mural project at Woodlawn Park
• Cisterna Park pumphouse replacement bids came over budget, redesign underway
• Maybranch Greenway Phase IB – coordinating with railroad, 60% design submitted to ArDOT
• Creekmore Park parking lot Phase II completed $1K under budget

Board of Directors - Special Meeting / Study Session

The Board of Directors will consider an ordinance to authorize Sales and Use Tax Bonds to finance wastewater and capital improvements. A study session will also address personnel agreements, cemetery options, and solid waste management.

• Ordinance for Sales and Use Tax Bonds up to $385,000,000 for sewer system improvements
• Review of loaned personnel agreement with Burns and McDonnell Engineering, Inc.
• Discussion regarding Fort Smith Cemeteries, Inc. options for Rose Lawn, Holy Cross and Forest Park cemeteries
• Discussion of Long-Term Solid Waste Management Strategic Plan
• Review of 2025-2026 City Strategic Priorities

Transit Advisory Commission - Regular Meeting

The commission will review Transportation Assistance Program (TAP) ticket requests for three organizations and receive updates on infrastructure projects. Members will also discuss service objectives and goals for the 2026 budget.

• TAP ticket reviews for Ronald McDonald House, Comprehensive Juvenile Services, and Antioch for Youth and Family
• Update on the access road project including a new road to South 28th Street and a rail crossing
• Update on the CNG time fill project and bid status
• Procurement update for a new fare access system
• Discussion of 2026 budget goals and service objectives

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting / Special Study Session

The Board of Directors will vote on two amendments to the OVG Facilities, LLC management agreement regarding the convention center's term, parking, and off-site catering. The meeting also includes several water utility easement acquisitions and transit equipment purchases.

• Second and Third Amendments to OVG Facilities, LLC management agreement for the Convention Center
• Payment of $1,228,815.70 to Forsgren, Incorporated for 2016 SSA Remedial Measures
• Contract with Nicosia Consulting International, LLC for CNG Time Fill Upgrade ($746,502.00)
• Purchase of a large heavy duty transit bus from Gillig, LLC ($724,700.00)
• Contract with FORVIS MAZARS, LLP for 2025 financial statement auditing ($195,000.00)

Board of Directors - Special Study Session

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will hold a special study session to review the Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Budget. Discussion will focus on the General Fund, including revenue comparisons, spending allocations, turnover trends, and specific budget requests from the Fire, Parks, and Police Departments.

• Review of Budget Comparison Summary - General Fund
• Review of General Fund Statement of Revenue Comparison
• Review of allocation distribution of all programs to the General Fund
• Review of turnover trends and position vacancies
• Review of specific budget requests for Fire, Parks, and Police Departments

Property Owners Appeal Board - Appeal Hearing

The Property Owners Appeal Board will hear appeals from property owners who are 90+ days delinquent on fees for abatement of nuisance violations. Two appeals are scheduled: one for 1515 North 34th Street ($2,054.62) and one for 5300 Wilson ($415.26). The board may adjust liens or recommend certification for tax collection.

• 1515 North 34th Street cleanup lien of $2,054.62 for dead tree removal, owned by Reba and C.W. Tidwell
• 5300 Wilson cleanup lien of $415.26, owned by Bennett Properties
• Board may adjust liens or forward unpaid balances to Sebastian County Tax Collector with 10% penalty
• Property owners can enter 12-month payment contract with City Clerk to avoid tax certification

Parks and Recreation Commission - Regular Meeting

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review the proposed five-year Capital Improvement Plan (FY26–FY30) funded by the 1/8% sales tax. The plan outlines projects including trail extensions, pool upgrades, playground replacements, and park improvements totaling about $36 million. The commission will also hear project updates on Creekmore Park, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, and others.

• Maybranch Greenway Phase I and II: estimated $8.85M total, connecting Riverfront Drive to Kelley Park
• Creekmore Park Pool Upgrades: $2.77M in FY25, with additional $1.6M planned through FY28
• Carol Ann Cross Park Improvements: $875,927 in FY25, plus $350,000 in FY29 for path repairs
• John Bell, Jr. Park: $225,000 in FY25, with $1M planned in FY28–FY29
• Tilles Park Improvements: $1.37M in FY25 for playground replacement and parking resurfacing

Future Fort Smith Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will hear from a guest speaker from Discover Fort Smith and receive updates regarding the Parks Commission and Planning Commission. The meeting also includes a discussion of upcoming events.

• Guest Speaker: Ashleigh Bachert, Executive Director at Discover Fort Smith
• Parks Commission update by Sam Hanna
• Planning Commission update by Vicki Newton
• Discussion of Upcoming Events by Jennifer Terry

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will consider several requests to change land use classifications and zoning districts for properties along Highway 271, Texas Road, and Massard Road. The agenda also includes variance requests for residential and commercial properties and a conditional use request for a homeless shelter.

• Master Land Use Plan Amendment #9-9-25 for properties on Highway 271 and Mesa Drive
• Zoning #21-9-25 to change districts from unclassified to Open-1 and Industrial Light Special
• Variance #24-9-25 for a street access change at 6001 Prairie Drive
• Conditional Use #9-9-25 for a homeless shelter at 615 North B Street
• Rezoning #27-9-25 to Planned Zoning District at Massard Road addresses

Board of Directors - Study Session

The Board will discuss a proposal from the River Valley Film Society/Border Town Live to create a city-funded entertainment fund to attract shows to the Fort Smith Convention Center/ArcBest Performing Arts Center. They will also review a proposed second amendment to the management agreement with OVG Facilities, LLC for the convention center. Additionally, the board will review preliminary 2026 budget comparisons and the draft agenda for the September 16 regular meeting.

• Discussion of a nonprofit proposal to operate a city-funded Entertainment Fund for shows and events at the Fort Smith Convention Center/ArcBest Performing Arts Center
• Review of proposed Second Amendment to the management agreement with OVG Facilities, LLC for the convention center
• Review of preliminary 2026 budget comparison summaries
• Review of preliminary agenda for the September 16, 2025 regular meeting

Sales Tax Review Committee - Regular Meeting

The Sales Tax Review Committee will review quarterly reports on city and county sales tax revenues and expenditures. The meeting is scheduled for September 4, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. at the Blue Lion.

• Review of Countywide sales tax
• Review of City sales tax (Police)
• Review of City sales tax (1/8 - Parks)
• Review of City sales tax (1/8 - Fire)
• Review of City sales tax (Consent Decree)

Property Owners Appeal Board - Appeal Hearing

The Property Owners Appeal Board will hear an appeal from Bennett Properties regarding a $415.26 cleanup lien for 5300 Wilson Rd. The property was abated in April 2024 after code enforcement found trash, debris, and indoor furniture stored outdoors. The board may adjust the lien or recommend forwarding it to the Sebastian County Tax Collector for collection.

• Appeal of $415.26 cleanup lien for 5300 Wilson Rd (parcel 10860-0010-00000-00) after city abated trash, debris, dead limbs, indoor furniture, and open storage in April 2024.

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider two ordinances rezoning properties: 1400/1404 South 11th Street (from Industrial Light to Transitional) and multiple parcels on South 33rd Street (from Industrial Light to Residential). Other items include adopting 2025-2026 strategic priorities, appointing a Director of Internal Audit, conveying property to Methodist Village, and approving a consent agenda with contracts and payments.

• Ordinance rezoning 1400 and 1404 South 11th Street from Industrial Light (I-1) to Transitional (T) for two duplexes
• Ordinance rezoning seven parcels at 5200-5226 South 33rd Street from Industrial Light (I-1) to Residential Single Family Duplex - High Density (RSD-4)
• Resolution approving 2025-2026 Strategic Priorities for the city
• Resolution confirming appointment and employment of a Director of Internal Audit
• Consent agenda includes $605,861.17 final payment for 2024 Street Overlays/Reconstruction Phase D

River Valley Communications Center Board - Regular Meeting

The board is meeting to discuss the 2026 operating and revenue budget, including a request to use 911 revenue funds for facility construction. Members will also receive updates on the RVCC construction project and discuss the future of mass notification systems and organizational staffing.

• Presentation and discussion of the 2026 Operating Budget
• RVCC Construction Project update
• Discussion of Civil Defense/Tornado Sirens and Mass Notification Systems
• Discussion of staffing and organizational structure for a fully-consolidated RVCC
• Request for approval of 'Option 1' to utilize 911 revenue funds for construction

The board approved the 2026 operating budget and discussed the organizational structure for a consolidated facility expected in 2027. A proposal to use AR State 911 Board revenue for facility construction was tabled pending a cost breakdown for municipalities.

• Approved 2026 Operating Budget (9-0)
• Tabled discussion on utilizing AR State 911 Board revenue for construction (8-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes (8-0)
• Agreed that RVCC should host and pay for HyperReach and Civil Defense siren services

Board of Directors - Study Session

The Board of Directors will discuss departmental service objectives and key performance indicators for 2026, including City Administrator goals on consent decree compliance, water funding, and staff reorganization. They will also review projects funded by the Sales and Use Tax for streets, bridges, and drainage, and receive an update on the 48-inch water transmission line and Lake Fort Smith Water Treatment Plant upgrade. This is a study session for discussion only; no final decisions are expected.

• Review of 2026 service objectives and KPIs for all city departments
• City Administrator objectives include consent decree modification, water rate increases, staff right-sizing, and F-35 pilot training support
• Review of Sales and Use Tax projects for streets, bridges, and associated drainage
• Update on 48-inch Transmission Line Project and Lake Fort Smith Water Treatment Plant upgrade
• Review of preliminary agenda for the September 2, 2025 regular meeting

Board of Directors - Strategic Workshop

The Board of Directors will participate in a full-day workshop to establish long-term city priorities. The session includes defining core values, conducting a SWOT analysis, and creating a strategic roadmap for the community.

• Strategic Workshop facilitated by University of Arkansas Fort Smith
• SWOT-based environmental scan session
• Defining city leadership values and long-term priorities

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider resolutions to endorse a business for a state sales tax refund program and support the Fort Smith National Historic Site amid federal funding cuts. The meeting also includes public hearings on annexation and various utility and construction contracts.

• Resolution to certify local government endorsement for Project Synergy's Tax Back Program
• Resolution supporting Fort Smith National Historic Site amid federal funding cuts
• Public hearing regarding proposed annexation near Highway 271 South and Texas Road
• Resolution authorizing $125,000 for water meter investment grade audit
• Resolution authorizing $285,286.79 for three-year renewal with E-Builder, Inc.

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will review multiple variance requests, development plans, and rezoning applications. Key items include proposals for duplexes on South 33rd Street and a liquor store on Midland Boulevard.

• Rezoning of 5200-5226 South 33rd Street from Industrial Light (I-1) to Residential Single Family Duplex - High Density (RSD-4) for seven duplexes
• Development plan for a beer, wine, and liquor store with drive-through at 5609 Midland Boulevard
• Rezoning of 1400 and 1404 South 11th Street from Industrial Light (I-1) to Transitional (T) for two duplexes
• Conditional use request for an event center at 2400 Dodson Avenue
• Development plan for a contractor's shop and storage yard at 2801 Cavanaugh Road

Board of Directors - Study Session / Special Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will hold a study session on August 12, 2025, to review 18 city-owned properties identified for potential sale, discuss a 360-degree review of city departments, and hear a presentation on a proposed fleet leasing program for the Police Department. A special meeting will follow, with an executive session for the appointment of a Director of Internal Audit.

• Review of 18 city-owned properties for potential sale, including the former Bost building at 1801 S 74th Street
• Discussion of a fleet leasing program for the Fort Smith Police Department to replace aging vehicles
• Concept discussion of a 360-degree review for city departments or department heads
• Executive session to appoint a Director of Internal Audit
• Review of preliminary agenda for the August 19 regular meeting

Civil Service Commission - Regular Meeting

The Civil Service Commission will discuss proposed updates to the rules and regulations governing police and fire personnel. No specific regulatory details were provided in the agenda.

• Proposed changes to civil service rules and regulations for police and fire

The provided minutes contain only Docusign envelope identification strings. No substantive decisions, discussions, or actions were recorded.

Audit Advisory Committee - Special Meeting

The Audit Advisory Committee is holding a special meeting to interview two candidates for the Internal Auditor Director position: Amanda Stange and James Carter. This is the only item on the agenda.

• Interview candidates Amanda Stange and James Carter for Internal Auditor Director

Board of Directors - Special Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors is holding a special meeting on August 7, 2025, to conduct secondary interviews with two candidates for Director of Internal Audit. The meeting will include an executive session for the interviews, and the candidates are Amanda Strange and James Carter. The meeting was called by four directors following the July 29 study session.

• Executive session to conduct secondary interviews for Director of Internal Audit
• Candidates: Amanda Strange and James Carter
• Meeting called by Directors Lee Kemp, Andre' Good, Jarred Rego, and Neal Martin
• Joint meeting anticipated with Audit Advisory Committee (AAC), but AAC will not participate in executive session

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Board of Directors will consider several items including a rezoning at 301 South E Street from industrial to Planned Zoning District to permit homeless shelter expansion, an ordinance to waive competitive bidding and transfer the Hope Park Pavilion to Riverview Hope Campus, and a resolution waiving building permit fees for a pavilion at that campus. The consent agenda includes a $600,121.95 cybersecurity software contract, a $91,048.83 access control system purchase, and a settlement agreement for a civil lawsuit.

• Rezoning 301 South E Street from Industrial Light/Moderate to Planned Zoning District for homeless shelter expansion (7.11 acres)
• Ordinance waiving competitive bidding to transfer ownership of Hope Park Pavilion to Riverview Hope Campus
• Resolution waiving building permit and construction inspection fees for a pavilion at Riverview Hope Campus
• Consent agenda: $600,121.95 cybersecurity software agreement with Heartland Business Systems
• Consent agenda: $91,048.83 purchase of Physical Access Control System for Maintenance Facility at 3900 Kelley Highway

River Valley Communications Center Board - Regular Meeting

The River Valley Communications Center Board is discussing the selection of a construction manager for the facility at 4501 Burrough RD and reviewing a preliminary 2026 operating budget. The board is also considering a budget amendment for 2025 to cover personnel reimbursements and maintenance.

• Proposed 2025 operating budget increase of $99,711.30 for EMS reimbursements, lawn care, and software licensing
• Recommendation to select Beshears Construction, Inc. as the construction manager at risk for the 4501 Burrough RD project
• Review of preliminary 2026 Operating and Revenue budget
• Discussion of the 911 facility project including a 190-foot microwave communications tower and FEMA-rated hardened facility

The Board approved a budget amendment for operating expenses and selected Beshears Construction Inc. as the construction manager for the RVCC facility project. A preliminary 2026 budget was presented for review with final approval sought at the next meeting.

• Approved minutes (9-0)
• Approved $99,711.30 budget amendment for E911 services, lawn care, Revcord agreement, and EMS reimbursement (9-0)
• Approved selection of Beshears Construction Inc. as Construction Manager for the facility project (9-0)

Board of Directors - Special Study Session / Mid-Year Budget Review & Strategic Planning Session

The Board of Directors will meet for a special study session to review the mid-year financial report as of June 30, 2025. The body will also discuss city strategic goals established under Resolution No. R-215-23.

• Review of Mid-Year Financial Report including General Fund and Street Maintenance Fund
• Discussion of City of Fort Smith Strategic Goals (Resolution No. R-215-23)
• Review of Water & Sewer Operating Fund and Solid Waste Operating Fund working capital

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will consider a resolution authorizing the offering of up to $100 million in sales and use tax bonds for sewer improvements, the first series of $385 million approved by voters in May. Other business includes approval of a Comprehensive Action Plan for climate pollution reduction, engineering services contracts for street projects, and several consent agenda items. The meeting also includes an executive session for appointments and an internal audit director interview.

• Resolution authorizing $100 million in Sales and Use Tax Bonds for sewer improvements (consent decree compliance)
• Resolution to submit the City of Fort Smith Energy & Environment Innovation Comprehensive Action Plan to the state
• Resolution for engineering services agreements for 2025 Streets, Bridges and Associated Drainage Sales Tax Program ($1,228,710)
• Consent agenda includes settlement of Asentha Saul v. City of Fort Smith and a $125,000 audit agreement with AMERESCO for water meters
• Resolution to acquire permanent sewer utility easements for consent decree line repair ($1,500)

Board of Directors - Study Session / Special Meeting

The Board will discuss a proposal from Fort Smith Cemeteries, Inc. for the city to assume operational responsibility for Roselawn/Holy Cross, Forest Park, and Washington Cemeteries. The nonprofit reports financial collapse, with $150,000 in deferred repairs at Forest Park and $600,000 remaining on a loan. Also on the agenda: discussion of police cost recovery for special events and a review of parking meter fee waiver through August 1. The special meeting includes an executive session to interview two candidates for Director of Internal Audit.

• Proposal for city to take over Roselawn/Holy Cross, Forest Park, and Washington Cemeteries from failing nonprofit (nonprofit has $600K loan, $150K deferred repairs at Forest Park)
• Discussion of policing costs for community special events and potential cost-recovery under Sec. 24-201 of city code
• Review of parking meter fee waiver (through Aug 1, 2025 per Resolution R-2-25)
• Executive session to interview two candidates for Director of Internal Audit
• Preliminary agenda review for July 22 regular meeting

Property Owners Appeal Board - Regular Meeting

The board will select a chairperson for 2025-2026, schedule two appeal hearing evenings in September, review delinquent property cleanup liens (currently 399 liens totaling $188,180.69), and receive a report from Neighborhood Services on activities including enforcement of new Arkansas Act 238 criminalizing squatting.

• Review of 399 delinquent liens totaling $188,180.69 as of June 30, 2025
• New Arkansas Act 238 (HB 1049) criminalizes squatting; City will enforce accordingly
• Neighborhood Services report shows 6,474 property inspections and 5,776 follow-up inspections year-to-date 2025
• Selection of chairperson for July 2025 – July 2026 term
• Schedule two evening appeal hearings in September 2025

Future Fort Smith Committee - Regular Meeting

The Future Fort Smith Committee will hold a regular meeting with guest speaker Jeff Dingman, Acting City Administrator. The committee will approve minutes from May 12, 2025, receive updates from the Parks and Planning Commissions, and discuss upcoming events. The next meeting is scheduled for September 8, 2025.

• Guest speaker: Acting City Administrator Jeff Dingman
• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2025 meeting
• Update from Parks Commission (Sam Hanna)
• Update from Planning Commission (Vicki Newton)
• Discussion of upcoming events (Jennifer Terry)

Audit Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Audit Advisory Committee will meet to review the Audit Charter, the committee's own charter, and policy manuals. Members will also discuss the internal audit position and items related to outsourced services from Baker Tilly.

• Approval of June 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Audit Charter and Policy Manuals
• Discussion of internal audit position
• Discussion of outsourced Baker Tilly items

The Audit Advisory Committee approved minutes from the June 12 meeting and recommended that Baker Tilly begin a risk assessment for Utilities only. The committee also discussed revising charters to align with standards and noted that two more internal audit candidates will be interviewed after a special meeting on July 15. The next meeting is scheduled for October 23, 2025.

• Approved meeting minutes from 6/12/25 (unopposed)
• Recommended Baker Tilly start risk assessment for Utilities only
• Set next meeting for October 23, 2025 at 6:00 PM

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will consider nine items, including a rezoning for a homeless shelter at 301 South E Street, a conditional use for an exterior pavilion at the same site, a rezoning for duplexes at six Preston Court addresses, a variance for landscaping at 4606 North 6th Street, a master land use plan amendment and rezoning for an event center at 4900 Spradling Avenue, and proposed UDO amendments. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and staff comments.

• Rezoning #15-7-25: zone change from I-1 and I-2 to PZD at 301 South E Street for homeless shelter interior modifications
• Conditional Use #6-7-25: exterior pavilion for homeless shelter in proposed PZD at 301 South E Street
• Rezoning #16-7-25 and Development Plan #12-7-25: zone change to RSD-4 for duplexes at six Preston Court addresses
• Variance #14-7-25 and Subdivision Variance #3-7-25 and Development Plan #11-7-25: requests for landscaping, access easement variances and a commercial communication tower at 4606 North 6th Street
• Master Land Use Plan Amendment #6-7-25 and Rezoning #17-7-25 and Conditional Use #6-7-25: amendment to Mixed-Use Residential and PZD for an event center at 4900 Spradling Avenue

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The Board of Directors will review rezoning requests for an outdoor amusement center and a 31.92-acre mixed-use residential and commercial project. The meeting also includes several infrastructure contracts and a public hearing date for a proposed annexation.

• Rezoning of 2600 North 32nd Street to Commercial Heavy (C-5) for a go-kart racetrack
• Rezoning of 31.92 acres at 1 Essex Place and surrounding areas to a Planned Zoning District for mixed-use development
• Payment of $1,197,749.31 to Forsgren, Incorporated for 2016 SSA Remedial Measures
• Contract of $2,226,920.90 for South 91st Street Reconstruction
• Acquisition of real property interests for the Flooded Residence Buyout Program totaling $264,000.00

Board of Directors - Special Meeting / Study Session

The Board of Directors will consider a resolution to accept the 2024 annual financial audit reports. A study session will follow to review the 2024 Consent Decree Annual Report and a proposal for an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project for Water Utilities.

• Resolution to accept the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Uniform Guidance Audit, and State Compliance Report
• Review of the Consent Decree 2024 Annual Report regarding water utility milestones
• Presentation by AMERESCO regarding a proposed Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Water Loss Optimization project
• Discussion on whether to proceed with Phase 1 of the AMI project to address estimated 35% nonrevenue water loss

Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The board will vote on an ordinance updating ambulance maximum base rates to 325% of the Medicare Ambulance Fee Schedule, Arkansas Rural Rate, per new state law. They will also decide between two wastewater rate options for Arkoma ($3.48 or $5.68 per ccf) and consider a change order for the SSA Remedial Measures project ($235,067.75). Additional items include a consent agenda for grants, vehicle purchases, and appointments to various boards.

• Ordinance amending Section 12-32 to set ambulance base rate at 325% of Medicare Arkansas Rural Rate
• Two options for wastewater treatment agreement with Arkoma Municipal Authority: $3.48/ccf or $5.68/ccf
• Change Order No. 1 with Forsgren, Inc. for SSA Remedial Measures, Sub-Basin S007 ($235,067.75)
• Consent agenda: COPS hiring grant, Law Enforcement Mental Health grant, lagoon cleaning contract ($334,248), easements ($5,990), three transit vans ($313,221)
• Ordinance regarding board's personnel authority over department heads (automatically placed after prior denial)

Audit Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Fort Smith Audit Advisory Committee will consider approval of prior meeting minutes and receive the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Single Audit Reports, and Management Letters. The meeting includes a roundtable for questions and recommendations.

• Presentation of the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Presentation of Single Audit Reports and Management Letters
• Approval of prior meeting minutes

The Audit Advisory Committee approved the prior meeting minutes and voted to release the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, Single Audit Reports, and Management Letters. The city received unmodified opinions on the financial audit and four grant audits. A motion to approve the audit release was made and seconded; no vote tally was recorded in the minutes. The committee also discussed auditing utility franchise fees and scheduled a July 10 meeting.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unopposed)
• Motion to approve release of 2024 audit reports made and seconded; no explicit vote recorded
• Scheduled next regular meeting for July 10, 2025

Board of Directors - Study Session

The Board of Directors will review a list of city-owned properties to identify potential surplus parcels for sale. Discussions also include an Energy & Environment Comprehensive Action Plan and a proposed wholesale wastewater agreement with the Town of Arkoma.

• Review of city-owned property list for potential sale
• Discussion regarding Energy & Environment Comprehensive Action Plan
• Review of establishment of a City of Fort Smith Grants Policy
• Discussion regarding wholesale wastewater agreement with the Town of Arkoma
• Review of June 17, 2025 regular meeting agenda

Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment - Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment will hold public hearings and decide on eight items, including a home occupation for physical therapy, a rezoning to Commercial Heavy with an outdoor amusement center, a master land use plan amendment and rezoning for a mixed-use Planned Zoning District (PZD) at multiple properties, conditional uses and a temporary permit for a school addition and classrooms, and variances for lot area and setbacks. The most consequential item is the proposed mixed-use development along Brooken Hill Drive and Jenny Lind Road.

• Home occupation for physical therapy at 923 South 25th Street (RSD-3 zone)
• Rezoning from C-4 to C-5 and conditional use for outdoor amusement center at 2600 North 32nd Street
• Master Land Use Plan amendment from General Commercial/Residential/Open Space to Mixed Use Residential, and rezoning to PZD at 1 Essex Place, 9707 Essex Place, 2200 and 2300 Brooken Hill Drive, and 9200 Jenny Lind Road
• Conditional use for school (parking lot and classroom addition) and temporary use permit for temporary classrooms at 4201 Windsor Drive (RM-3 zone)
• Variance requests for minimum lot area, front and side yard setbacks at 923 South 17th Street and 1711 South I Street