9/1/2026 - Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The City of Fort Smith Board of Directors held a regular meeting on September 1, 2026, where several procurement and zoning matters were addressed. Key procurement discussions included approval of a $3,476,545.60 construction contract with Forsgren for a consent decree remedial measures project and a $272,900 engineering services contract with Hawkins Weir for construction observation related to the same project. The board also approved a $1,530,825.65 contract with Steep Creek LLC for a street overlay reconstruction project and a $919,000 contract with Denali Water Solutions for cleaning water treatment plant lagoons. Concerns were raised about Denali's past performance and permit issues, prompting calls for more competitive bidding in future contracts. Additionally, multiple zoning ordinances were adopted to facilitate residential and commercial developments, including a new medical clinic. The board discussed ongoing infrastructure challenges related to sewer system improvements and emphasized the need for oversight and transparency in contract management. No votes were taken to reject contracts, but one board member opposed the Denali contract due to prior concerns. The meeting also included public comments on various agenda items and concluded with no executive session actions.