Fort Smith, Ark. – The Fort Smith Board of Directors approved several significant measures affecting community development, zoning, budgeting, and public health services.
Key decisions included the approval of the 2025 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program budgets. The board also authorized submission of the Program Year 2025 Action Plan, which outlines upcoming initiatives for affordable housing and public service programs.
In zoning and development matters, a property at 721 N Greenwood Ave was rezoned to a Planned Zoning District. Additionally, new regulations were adopted concerning driveway access for duplex structures, aimed at improving neighborhood infrastructure planning.
Financially, the board amended the city’s 2025 Operating Budget, rolling back to 2024 allocation percentages. Notably, proposed cuts to the Transit Department were reversed, preserving funding for public transportation services.
Directors also approved a resolution to place a sales and use tax reauthorization measure on the 2030 Primary Election ballot. If passed by voters, the measure would extend funding for essential city services.
One of the more notable changes in public health operations was the decision to discontinue mosquito fogging services by the Streets & Traffic Control Department. The board did not indicate whether an alternative pest control strategy would be implemented.
Additional approvals under the consent agenda included IT service contract renewals, permits for new waste services, equipment purchases for Solid Waste Services, and continued work on the Garrison Park revitalization project.
The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for later this month.