Development News for Fort Smith, Arkansas

Easements Acquired for Sewer Remedial Measures Project Near Kelly Highway

The Board of Directors authorized the acquisition of sewer utility and temporary construction easements related to the 2022 SSA Remedial Measures Project (Project #25-13). This involves acquiring easements across 37 tracts of land in the vicinity of Kelly Highway and North 54th Street. The estimated cost for these easements is approximately $18,000. The resolution passed with a 7-0 vote.

City Council Approves Ordinance for Childcare Facilities in Residential Areas

The Board of Directors approved an ordinance to amend the 2019 unified development ordinance to align with Act 60, which sets requirements for childcare facilities within residential properties. The Planning Commission had previously voted 6-0 to recommend the amendment. The ordinance passed with a 7-0 vote.

City Approves Waterline Project Contract Amidst Bidding Process Scrutiny

The Board of Directors approved several items on the consent agenda, including authorizing a contract with Square One Enterprises Corporation for the Racetrack Road Waterline Improvements Project. Concerns were raised regarding the bidding process, with one director questioning if Goodwin and Goodwin was the low bidder and if Square One had been allowed to change their bid after submission. Staff confirmed Square One was the lowest responsive bidder and that bids could not be modified after closing. The board also approved accepting bids for two one-ton service trucks for the water resources department and adopting a substance abuse testing program policy for Fort Smith Transit. Item 7A (Racetrack Road Waterline Improvements) passed with a 6-0 vote and one abstention, while items 7B (service trucks) and 7C (transit testing policy) passed with 7-0 votes.

Animal Dumping and Water Bill Payment Concerns Raised

Director Christina Savage raised concerns about multiple cats being dumped in the 40th block of Hendricks on South 40th street and requested signs with penalties for animal dumping, as well as an investigation by animal services. She also questioned a resident's report about being told they could no longer overpay their water bill to create a cushion, with city staff indicating that while not a bank, they would look into the specific instance and generally discourage consistent overpayment.