6/23/2026 Board of Directors - Study Session

The City of Fort Smith Board of Directors held a study session on June 23, 2026, addressing several key procurement and budget-related topics. The board reviewed the draft Community Development Block Grant and Home Investment Partnership five-year consolidated plan for 2026-2030, with plans to submit it to HUD pending approval. A significant discussion focused on the replacement of the ProPhoenix CAD RMS mobile system for emergency services dispatch due to a security breach by the vendor. The city plans to terminate its contract with ProPhoenix, seek a refund of approximately $1.2 million, and enter a new contract with Central Square, a vendor already approved through the Sourcewell Purchasing Consortium, with an estimated implementation cost of $380,000 funded from the 9-1-1 reserve balance. The board also discussed a $1 million financial assistance agreement with the Fort Smith Housing Authority for infrastructure improvements related to the Bailey Hill redevelopment project, which involves constructing 34 affordable homes. The funding would come from the city's street tax fund, and the project aims to add new taxable properties and utility revenue to the city. The board requested further detailed cost breakdowns and plans to revisit the agreement in a future meeting. Additionally, the board discussed scheduling a strategic workshop and confirmed the agenda for the upcoming July 7 regular meeting.