11/10/2026 Board of Directors - Study Session

The City of Fort Smith Board of Directors’ study session on November 10, 2026, covered several pending contracts, operating budgets, and capital projects. Fort Smith Animal Haven requested a fixed monthly payment increase from $63,407 to $75,935, higher per-animal fees, and a ten-year renewal to support financing for a new shelter. Directors requested additional financial and operational details; a motion and second were made to place the proposal on the next voting agenda, but no contract was approved at this session. The board also reviewed a draft Parrot Island Water Park operating agreement recommending Sports Facilities Management LLC of Clearwater, Florida, for a five-year term with three optional one-year renewals. Staff were still negotiating a separate arrangement for the operator to help reimburse the city for the remaining water-slide construction costs, including a $193,115 change order, so the agreement was not finalized.

The convention center’s proposed 2027 budget projected a $783,129 operating deficit. Its manager requested authorization to pursue limited off-site upscale catering, citing more than $300,000 in foregone opportunities, but no decision was recorded. The presentation also reported $233,250 in energy-efficiency incentives and a $55,812 in-kind contribution for completed LED upgrades, expected to save about $77,122 annually. The board reviewed 2027 wastewater capital plans totaling $40.38 million for non-consent-decree work and $69.13 million for consent-decree projects, and moved the capital improvement items forward for agenda consideration. Directors requested a fuller financing picture for the upcoming budget discussion. No final contract awards or new appropriations were approved during the session.