5/19/2026 Board of Directors - Regular Meeting

The City of Fort Smith Board of Directors held a regular meeting on May 19, 2026, with significant focus on a proposed change to the city's form of government. The board debated two ordinances to place the issue on the ballot either in November 2026 or November 2027. After extensive public comments and board discussion, the motion to place the question on the 2026 ballot failed due to a tie vote with one abstention, and the motion to place it on the 2027 ballot was tabled. The meeting also included procurement-related actions: approval of a $1.1 million progress payment to Kraft Reynolds for a remedial measures project, awarding a $6.86 million construction contract to Inliner Solutions LLC for sewer line repairs, and a $585,600 contract with Hawkins Weir Engineers for construction observation. Additionally, the board authorized an $8.575 million contract with Garver LLC for engineering design and construction management services for wastewater facility improvements, though this item was tabled for further study due to concerns about the lump sum fee structure. The consent agenda included grant applications, a contract for a siding replacement project, and purchase of a sewer camera truck. Several policy discussions touched on water billing, homelessness, and first responder support. The meeting reflected active citizen engagement and ongoing infrastructure and governance challenges in Fort Smith.