Public Meetings - Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Fort Smith Civil Service Commission held a regular meeting on August 8, 2025, at 8:30 AM. (Note: The agenda listed August 7, 2025, but the meeting occurred on August 8 per the provided timestamp.) The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. The sole item of business was the discussion and adoption of proposed changes to the civil service rules and regulations for the police and fire departments, driven primarily by recent state legislation. Discussion Items - Proposed changes to civil service rules: Mr. Rowe presented the proposed changes, which were largely in response to Act 751 (effective August 5, 2025). Key changes include: allowing police and fire chiefs to schedule examinations at any time, reducing the commission's role to an advisory capacity only, and expressly prohibiting the commission from conducting interviews or proctoring exams. The promotion probationary period for internal promotions was extended from the current six months to twelve months. Additionally, the "rule of three" for new applicants was updated to a "rule of five" (per 2023 legislation), meaning chiefs may select from the top five candidates on the eligibility list for new hires; internal promotions retain the rule of three. - Commissioner clarification: One commissioner asked for clarification that the twelve-month probationary period applies only to internal promotions, which was confirmed by Mr. Rowe. - Chiefs' input: No additional comments were offered by the chiefs; they were satisfied with the presentation. - Public comment: None. Key Outcomes - Motion to adopt rule changes: A motion was made by Commissioner Wendell Sampson to accept the proposed rule changes, which was seconded. The commission voted unanimously in favor (all present members voted yes). The rule changes were adopted. - Announcement: A promotional ceremony is scheduled for next Thursday (August 14, 2025) at 10:00 AM at the police department, combining multiple promotions including three captains, one lieutenant, and two sergeants. Commissioners were invited to attend. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a special meeting on August 7, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at the Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street, Back Room, to conduct secondary interviews with two candidates for the Director of Internal Audit position. The meeting was called by Directors Lee Kemp, Andre' Good, Jarred Rego, and Neal Martin following the July 29, 2025 study session. The Audit Advisory Committee (AAC) attended but did not participate in the executive session. Executive Session Interviews - James Carter – A Little Rock resident with about 20 years of audit experience, including military service, work with Arkansas Department of Human Services, and the title industry. He discussed his background in compliance audits, risk assessment using structured worksheets, and supervising audit teams. He emphasized a data-driven, mission-based approach and outlined a plan for his first 90 days starting with observation and expectation-setting. - Amanda Strange – A CPA with nearly 18 years at Forvis Mazars (formerly BKD) in Fort Smith, focusing on external audits of commercial clients, electric cooperatives, and employee benefit plans. She expressed a desire to give back to her community and described her experience in risk assessment, project management, and staff oversight. She noted she had not been involved with the city’s external audit in a capacity that would create a conflict of interest. Key Outcomes - The board conducted executive session interviews with both candidates, James Carter and Amanda Strange. - No formal action was taken on the candidates during the meeting. - Director Lee Kemp made a motion to hold an additional executive session during the upcoming study session on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, for the purpose of discussing an offer of employment for the Director of Internal Audit position. The motion carried, and the meeting was adjourned.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a regular meeting on August 5, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Blue Lion, 101 North 2nd Street. The board considered seven items of business, including zoning changes, donation of a city-owned pavilion, removal of downtown parking meters, and settlement of a FOIA lawsuit. All votes were unanimous except for one on the consent agenda. Consent Calendar - 8A: Resolution authorizing a three-year agreement with Heartland Business Systems for cybersecurity software, licensing, and maintenance ($600,121.95 total, budgeted in Information Technology operating funds). Approved 6-0. - 8B: Resolution authorizing purchase of a physical access control system for the City Maintenance Facility at 3900 Kelley Highway ($91,048.83, budgeted). Approved 6-0. - 8C: Resolution approving an Agreed Order to resolve Marilyn Moore v. City of Fort Smith (Case No. 66FCV-25-893). Pulled for separate vote. Passed 5-1 (Director Kemp opposed). Public Comments & Testimony - Marilyn Moore (plaintiff in FOIA lawsuit) explained her request for records about potential water supply for a proposed Franklin County prison, criticized the city’s initial response, and urged approval of the settlement. She stated the city admitted to FOIA violations. - Crystal Cadelli echoed concerns about transparency and honesty in city leadership, urging the board to be thoughtful in its decisions. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Rezoning 301 South E Street (Riverview Hope Campus): Ordinance rezoning 7.11 acres from Industrial Light (I-1) and Industrial Moderate (I-2) to a Planned Zoning District (PZD). The PZD creates two new land uses: homeless shelter (indoor expansion) permitted by right, and homeless shelter (exterior modifications) requiring conditional use approval. A neighborhood meeting on June 25, 2025, had no attendees. The Planning Commission voted 8-0 to recommend. The board adopted the ordinance (6-0) and the emergency clause (6-0). - Item 2 – Transfer of Hope Park Pavilion: Ordinance declaring an exceptional situation to waive competitive bidding and donate the city-owned metal frame pavilion (approx. 65' x 25') from 14 N. H Street to Riverview Hope Campus. The pavilion will be relocated to 301 S. E Street for use as a shaded shelter. All costs of relocation are borne by Hope Campus. Adopted 6-0. - Item 3 – Waiver of Building Permit Fees: Resolution waiving building permit and construction inspection fees for the pavilion relocation at Hope Campus. Estimated fees were minimal (approximately $100–$500). Adopted 6-0. - Item 4 – Rezoning Preston Court (Stone Ridge Subdivision): Ordinance rezoning six lots (10405–10427 Preston Court, 2.14 acres) from Residential Single Family High Density (RS-4) to Residential Single Family Duplex High Density (RSD-4) to allow construction of six duplexes. Neighborhood meeting on June 25 had no attendees. Planning Commission voted 7-0 (one abstention) to recommend. Adopted 6-0 with emergency clause (6-0). - Item 5 – Rezoning 4900 Spradling Avenue (Event Center): Ordinance amending the Master Land Use Plan from Residential Detached to Mixed-Use Residential and rezoning 0.55 acres from Residential Multifamily Medium Density (RM-3) to a PZD to allow an event center in a former church building. Two neighborhood meetings (April 17 and June 25, 2025) had five attending neighbors in support. Planning Commission voted 8-0 to recommend. Adopted 6-0 with emergency clause (6-0). - Item 6 – UDO Amendments (Extraterritorial Jurisdiction): Ordinance amending the 2019 Unified Development Ordinance to remove sections referencing extraterritorial jurisdiction and planning areas, in compliance with Act 314 (effective August 4, 2025). Planning Commission voted 8-0 to recommend. Adopted 6-0 with emergency clause (6-0). - Item 7 – Removal of Parking Meters Downtown: Ordinance repealing metered parking regulations (Chapter 24, Article IV, Division 3), providing for removal of all parking meters, and enacting new signage for limited 30-minute parking for county business only on streets adjacent to the Sebastian County Courthouse (Parker Avenue, Rogers Avenue, and South 6th Street), enforced by Sebastian County. The board had waived meter fees for nearly two years without negative impact. Adopted 6-0. Key Outcomes - All ordinance and resolution votes passed with 6-0 margins except the FOIA settlement (5-1). - Item 8C (FOIA Settlement): The agreed order admits the city violated FOIA by failing to timely produce records and incorrectly stating no responsive documents existed. The city agreed to pay $1,500 in attorney fees and $271.40 in costs. Director Kemp voted no, stating he believed the city had not acted with ill intent and that the documents provided after the lawsuit were not material. - During officials forum, updates were provided on a mandatory water conservation order following a major water line repair. The 24-inch pipe was repaired by 11:30 p.m. on August 4, but the system needs a few days for disinfection and refilling the water tank. Phase two restrictions (no filling pools, no washing vehicles except at commercial car washes, etc.) are expected to be lifted by weekend or early next week. Board members thanked city crews for their rapid work. - The board confirmed a special meeting on August 7, 2025, and a strategic planning workshop on August 22, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at 524 Garrison Avenue (Area Agency on Aging, 7th floor), though Mayor suggested the Blue Lion as an alternative. - A pending item to review a contract with SGR for executive search services was removed from the pending list by consensus, as the board decided to use different search firms.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a special study session on July 29, 2025, at the Blue Lion to review the mid-year financial report and discuss the city's strategic goals. CFO Andy Richards presented the financial status of the General Fund, Street Maintenance Fund, Water & Sewer Operating Fund, and Solid Waste Operating Fund as of June 30, 2025. Acting City Administrator Jeff Dingman led a discussion on the six strategic goals adopted in December 2023 and the process for setting goals for FY2026. The board also approved a special meeting for audit committee interviews. Discussion Items Mid-Year Budget Review (CFO Andy Richards) - General Fund: Total revenues of $23.7M and expenditures of $34.3M, resulting in a $10.5M deficit. CFO Richards noted that about $7M of expenditures were non-recurring (e.g., $4M building purchase, $2M roof repairs, $600K airport barrier system). Contingency reserve stood at 31.8% (actual), projected to decline to 20% by year-end per the amended budget. Sales tax revenues were down 1% year-over-year through June but showed a 1% increase in July collections. CFO Richards described the outlook as "stable" and "positive." - Street Maintenance Fund: Contingency reserve at 70%, with $628K deficit. Director Settle questioned the high reserve and potential for funding street projects; CFO Richards noted that capital purchases and equipment maintenance account for some spending, and further discussion would occur during CIP planning. - Water & Sewer Operating Fund: Debt service coverage ratio improved to 118% at mid-year (from 71% in 2024). Revenues increased 14% due to rate hikes, though water volume declined. CFO Richards cautioned that summer dry months could affect year-end results. Director Christina Catsavis inquired about reconnect fees, which rose to $196K from $43K; CFO Richards explained the increase may reflect both reconnections and new account fees. - Solid Waste Operating Fund: Working capital at 45.7% (up from 43.1% in 2024). Expenditures increased due to equipment maintenance and cart/container purchases. A cost-of-service study is underway. - Property Tax: Director Settle noted rising property valuations; CFO Richards confirmed increased revenue would be realized in FY2026. - Convention Center Subsidy: Director Settle noted the subsidy has risen to approximately $1.25M, far above the original $777K target. CFO Richards attributed the increase to COVID-era impacts and management changes. - Carryovers: Several directors expressed concern about large carryover balances (e.g., $1.9M for Parrot Island water slides, $1M for airport project). Director Kemp suggested returning to the old practice of allocating funds in the budget year and not carrying them forward, to reduce confusion. Strategic Goals Discussion (Acting City Administrator Jeff Dingman) - Dingman presented an update on the six goals from Resolution R-215-23: reducing neighborhood blight, supporting homelessness reduction (Next Step Homeless Services), strengthening consent decree relationships, mitigating inflation impacts, staffing reorganization, and increasing water supply/pressure. - Highlights: Blight reduction efforts saw a 17% increase in property inspections and improved compliance. Next Step Homeless Services has submitted construction bids but needs additional fundraising. Consent decree modification is anticipated by August with an extended compliance period to 2037/2039. Inflation continues to pressure operating and capital budgets; the board cut $4.2M from the FY2025 budget in May. Water supply planning is ongoing, with $12M in federal funding for a transmission line. - Board members expressed support for a facilitated strategic planning session to set FY2026 goals. Directors favored holding it as soon as possible, preferably in August or early September, to guide budget preparation. Key Outcomes - Consensus on Strategic Planning Session: The board agreed to schedule a facilitated full-day strategic planning session, likely on a Friday in August or early September, to establish FY2026 goals. Acting City Administrator Dingman will circulate potential dates. - Special Meeting for Audit Committee Interviews: The board provided concurrence (four directors) to hold a special meeting on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 2:30 PM at the Blue Lion, to conduct interviews for audit committee positions with DPI staffing. The meeting will include an executive session. - Budget Guidance: The board reiterated the need for conservative spending, with CFO Richards noting that departments should aim to spend no more than 90% of their budgets. The FY2026 budget proposal is expected in early October, with review sessions in November and December. - No Formal Votes Taken: The meeting was a study session; no binding votes were cast on budget or policy changes.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors met on July 22, 2025, at the Blue Lion in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The board approved a $100 million sales tax bond issuance for sewer improvements, adopted the Energy & Environment Innovation Comprehensive Action Plan (CAP), established a new pay schedule for city engineers, and authorized several engineering service agreements. The consent agenda included six items, with one item (AMERESCO audit) tabled to the August meeting. The board also held an executive session for appointments and a candidate interview. Consent Calendar - 6A: Resolution formally adopting Grant Policies and Procedures for the City of Fort Smith. - 6B: Resolution authorizing application to the Arkansas Community Assistance Grant Program for Creekmore Park Tennis Courts ($893,600 grant, $223,400 local match). - 6C: Resolution authorizing settlement of litigation Asentha Saul v. City of Fort Smith for $9,500. - 6D: Resolution authorizing Agreement to Initiate land exchange with U.S. Forest Service (458.51 non-federal acres for 358.1 federal acres around Lake Fort Smith). - 6F: Resolution accepting bid for I-540/Highway 255 utility relocation ($370,325.75 to Goodwin & Goodwin, Inc.; 100% reimbursable by ARDoT). All consent items were approved 7-0, with Item 6E removed for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Levon Morton (citizen) urged the board to prioritize low interest rates and adequate debt service coverage (1.25x) for the bond issuance, and supported the underwriting team recommendation. - Dr. Rick Murphy (Citizens Climate League) expressed strong support for the Energy & Environment Innovation CAP, calling it a comprehensive vision for a clean and green Fort Smith, and urged adoption. - Joe Elskin (citizen) supported the CAP as an aspirational plan that demonstrates care for the environment and workforce development, and emphasized it does not obligate spending. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Sales and Use Tax Bonds (Resolution): The board authorized the first series of up to $100 million in sales tax bonds to finance sewer improvements and consent decree projects. PFM Financial Advisors presented the plan, noting a projected all-in interest rate of approximately 4.9–5% and a mid-September pricing date. The underwriting team includes Stephens Inc., Crews & Associates, and Raymond James. Directors discussed the debt service coverage ratio, potential for future refinancing, and credit rating expectations (likely A+ to AA-). Approved 7-0. - Item 2 – Energy & Environment Innovation Comprehensive Action Plan (Resolution): The plan, required by a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) agreement with the Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment, outlines optional GHG reduction strategies across transportation, energy, waste, and land use. Public input included two meetings and 363 survey responses. Director Neal Martin expressed concerns about scope (materials recovery facility, solar infrastructure, building code updates) and potential costs to residents. Directors Lee Kemp and Andre' Good noted the plan does not mandate expenditures or code changes, and aligns with current federal administration priorities. Approved 4-2-1 (Directors Martin and Settle opposed; Director George Catsavis abstained). - Item 3 – Engineer Pay Ordinance: The ordinance establishes a separate pay schedule (Grades E01–E06) for licensed professional engineers in the city's engineering departments and other city employees holding a PE license. Effective July 21, 2025, the schedule ranges from $75,000 to $180,000 annually. Funds are already budgeted for 2025. Approved 7-0. - Item 4 – Engineering Services for 2025 Streets/Bridges/Drainage Program (Resolution): Authorized three agreements totaling $1,228,710 for design of street overlay/reconstruction projects (approx. 9 miles) that also include consent decree sewer work (approx. 6.3 miles). Firms: Hawkins-Weir ($291,250), Brixey Engineering ($402,000), Mickle Griffin ($535,460). Design funding from sales tax; sewer portion from 5/8% sales tax. Approved 7-0. - Item 6E – AMERESCO Investment Grade Audit (Tabled): This item would authorize a $125,000 Phase I audit of water meters (including 400 large meters and statistical sampling of small meters) to evaluate revenue loss and potential for an AMI system. Directors raised concerns about cost, precedent, and whether the city could do this internally. Director Kevin Settle moved to table to the August meeting to allow a one-page summary clarifying scope and costs. Motion passed 4-3 (Directors Christina Catsavis, Settle, Martin, George Catsavis in favor; Directors Rego, Good, Kemp opposed). Key Outcomes - Approved: Sale of up to $100 million in sales and use tax bonds (7-0). - Approved: Energy & Environment Innovation Comprehensive Action Plan (4-2-1). - Approved: Engineer pay ordinance (7-0). - Approved: Engineering services for street/sewer projects (7-0). - Approved: Consent agenda items A, B, C, D, F (7-0). - Tabled: AMERESCO investment grade audit to the second meeting in August (4-3). - Executive Session: Conducted without action on the internal audit candidate (Jason Mitchell) and the Historic District Commission appointment. The board appointed Pete Hanham to the Property Owners Appeal Board (term expires July 14, 2029). No action reported on the Port Authority appointment. - Directors' Requests: Director Neal Martin requested study sessions on the water line construction progress and on current street projects/pending reallocation of funds. Director Christina Catsavis requested a FOIA policy and expressed concerns about procurement practices (vowing to vote no on contracts with only one bid unless emergency). Director Jarred Rego requested a study session on the entertainment fund and OVG contract renewal. Director Andre' Good asked for updates on Cliff Drive overgrowth enforcement (12 properties posted) and the Sixth/Wheeler intersection design (still under review). The board announced a mid-year budget review and strategic planning discussion for the following week. Officials Forum - The 184th Attack Squadron was recognized as the best RPA squadron in the U.S. Air Force. - A celebration parade for NBA champions Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe (Oklahoma City Thunder) will be held Thursday, July 24. - Creekmore Park pool reopened with a successful tournament; Parrot Island Water Park celebrated its one-millionth visitor on July 19.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a study session and special meeting on July 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Blue Lion, back room. The study session covered three major items: a request from Fort Smith Cemeteries, Inc. to transfer three historic cemeteries to municipal oversight; a discussion on policing and funding of community special events; and a review of the parking meter fee waiver. The special meeting included an executive session to interview candidates for Director of Internal Audit. Public Comments & Testimony - Crystal Cadelli: Expressed concerns about city administration preparedness, transparency, and spending priorities. She criticized rising sewer and water costs, the consent decree, and a proposed $43 million water meter technology project, arguing it is unnecessary. She urged the board to focus on attracting private businesses through low taxes and workforce development. Discussion Items 1. Fort Smith Cemeteries, Inc. Request for Municipal Oversight - Marty Clark (President, FSCI) and Ed Ralston (Vice President) presented the financial and operational struggles of Roselawn/Holy Cross, Forest Park, and Washington Cemeteries. They noted that the nonprofit model is unsustainable, with a $100,000 annual deficit, $150,000 in deferred infrastructure at Forest Park, and $600,000 in debt (First Security Bank, non-accrual). Perpetual care trust funds of $800,000 are largely inaccessible under state law. They requested the city assume full operational responsibility. - Bobby (Washington Cemetery volunteer) described Washington Cemetery as the last African American burial ground in Fort Smith, run entirely on volunteers and donations, with minimal income and no reserves. She cited a recent citation for overgrown grass and the need for ADA accessibility, tree trimming, and gravel drives. - Director J. Rego moved to direct city administration to continue discussions with FSCI and report back at the second regular meeting in August with options, including maintenance and capital cost breakdowns. The motion was seconded and supported by the board. - Mayor McGill and other directors expressed strong support for the city taking over the cemeteries, noting the need to honor the dead and preserve history. Director Kemp raised concerns about overburdening the city but suggested potential partnerships with faith communities. 2. Policing of Community Special Events - Police Chief Danny Baker explained that the current ordinance allows charging event sponsors for police and other city services, but has never been enforced. He recommended against operational changes but requested clearer guidance on which events the city should sponsor (i.e., bear costs). He noted that 40 protests since 2020 had no property damage or injuries, and that free speech events should be distinguished from for-profit events. - Director J. Rego expressed concern about equity: some events (e.g., Fort Smith Marathon) receive city-funded police overtime, while others (e.g., FCRA runs) pay for off-duty officers. He sought a consistent policy. - Director Christina Catsavis suggested that events generating income (entry fees, alcohol sales, vendor fees) should pay for their own security. She referenced Rogers, Arkansas, which covers all nonprofit events with taxpayer-funded overtime and requires for-profit events to hire off-duty security. - Director Kemp favored a tiered approach with a capped city fund for onboarding new events, and a clear set of criteria (e.g., economic impact, cultural exchange) for sponsorship. - Director Settle proposed that the board annually pass a resolution listing city-sponsored events and allocate funding through the board's budget for transparency. - Mayor McGill directed staff to develop criteria for city sponsorship of events. 3. Waiver of Parking Meter Fees - Acting City Administrator Jeff Dingman summarized that parking meter fees have been waived since November 2023, extended through August 1, 2025. Revenue from meters ($61,695 in 2022, $68,481 in 2023) was far less than enforcement costs ($96,746 and $103,002 respectively). A survey of downtown property/business owners showed 76% opposed to meters, and 73% said their customers are daily users. The Central Business Improvement District unanimously supports removal. - Officer Julio Solis (new downtown liaison) observed that parking around the courthouse and Baker District remains congested, but Garrison Avenue has ample spaces. - Director Christina Catsavis moved to remove the meters, except possibly around the courthouse. Director Rego seconded, requesting cost options for removal. Several directors suggested the county could manage meters around the courthouse if they wish, with no city expense. - The board expressed consensus to permanently remove downtown parking meters, with a formal resolution to be presented at a future meeting. 4. Preliminary Agenda for July 22, 2025 Regular Meeting - No comments were made; the agenda was reviewed and accepted. Key Outcomes - Fort Smith Cemeteries: Motion passed to direct city administration to continue discussions with FSCI and report back at the August 12 (second regular meeting in August) with detailed options. No formal vote was recorded, but consensus was clear. - Special Events: Staff directed to develop criteria for city sponsorship of events. Board to consider a resolution listing sponsored events and a funding mechanism. - Parking Meters: Consensus to permanently remove downtown parking meters, except for areas around the courthouse (to be discussed with the county). A formal resolution will be brought for a vote. - Special Meeting (Executive Session): The board interviewed one of two candidates (James Carter) for Director of Internal Audit; the other candidate did not appear. No action taken.

The Property Owners Appeal Board met on July 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Blue Lion, Fort Smith, Arkansas. The board elected a new chairperson, scheduled two appeal hearings for September, reviewed the preliminary 2025 delinquent lien list, and received a detailed activity report from the Neighborhood Services Department covering code enforcement, homeless encampments, and new state legislation on squatting. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the December 9, 2024 meeting were approved as presented (motion carried unanimously). Discussion Items - Selection of Chairperson 2025-2026: Board members nominated Justin Sparrow and Megan Raynor. After a motion and second for Justin Sparrow, the board voted in favor (3 ayes, 0 nays). The subsequent motion for Megan Raynor was voted down (nays). Justin Sparrow was elected chair for the term July 15, 2025 to July 14, 2026. - Scheduling Appeal Hearings for September: The board considered available dates in September, avoiding Wednesdays (board unavailable) and dates when staff were unavailable (Sept 3 and 11). A motion to hold appeal hearings on September 4 and September 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. was made, seconded, and carried. - Review of Delinquent Liens/Properties Included in 2025 Appeal Process: The preliminary list of delinquent liens as of June 30, 2025, was distributed. Statistics: 399 liens totaling $188,180.69 from 186 property owners (compared to 2024: 270 liens, $135,230.82 from 172 property owners). Staff noted that some 2023 cleanings not previously included were added due to technical issues; the city has 10 years to take action. Several liens were highlighted: (a) A couple (Bill/Bull) making $10/month payments since 2013 on a $1,677 lien – staff chose not to certify despite exceeding the 10-year window, due to consistent payments and the couple’s age. (b) Liens on Fort Smith Cemetery properties (Roselawn, Holy Cross, Forest Park) – staff explained these were placed to create a paper trail for city-funded abatements approved by the Board of Directors. The Cemetery Board is scheduled to address the Board of Directors on July 15, 2025, requesting the city permanently cover maintenance of these privately owned cemeteries. Discussion included the cemeteries’ trust fund ($600,000) and inability to access principal. The board expressed that liens should remain intact unless the Board of Directors acts to waive them. - Report of Activities of the Neighborhood Services Department: Shawn Gard, Director, presented a detailed report for 2024 and year-to-date 2025. Key points: - Environmental Code Violations: In 2024, 12,748 property inspections, 12,511 warnings, 13,369 follow-ups, 574 contractor abatements. In 2025 (Jan–June), 6,474 inspections, 6,394 warnings, 5,776 follow-ups, 214 abatements. Increase in inspections, warnings, and follow-ups compared to 2023 (17%, 19%, 13% respectively). - Property Maintenance Code Enforcement: 2024 had 280 new cases, 5,775 inspections, 186 cleared, 301 court cases. 2025 year-to-date: 81 new, 2,834 inspections, 86 cleared, 123 court cases. - Target Areas: In 2024, three target areas (two north side, one south side) were identified. Of 25 structures, 22 were resolved (90 structures brought into compliance overall); only 12 remain non-compliant (most in district court). The board plans to identify new areas for 2026. - Homeless Encampments: Encampments increased from 26 in 2023 to 29 in 2024, and already 40 in 2025 (35 cleared, 5 active). Encampments are growing larger and more sophisticated (e.g., 30 people behind FedEx on Wheeler Ave with solar panels, batter chargers). There is an estimated 30–50 person encampment at South 4th and I on the riverfront. Many individuals are coming from other states/regions (California, Ohio, Seattle, Texas, Northwest Arkansas), lured by Fort Smith’s services. Staff refer them to nonprofits, but many refuse to go to Hope Campus. - Squatting in Vacant Structures: Increasing problem. Examples: 1000 S. 21st (old Goodyear building) – purchased sight-unseen by out-of-state company, damaged extensively (wiring, plumbing, HVAC stolen). 416 N. D Street (old Baptist Health building) – squatters caused a fire, scheduled for demolition by owner. Staff coordinate with police to obtain orders of entry, clear structures, and board them up. Under property maintenance code, boarding can only last one year before structure must be made habitable or demolished. - New State Law – Act 238 (HB1049): Criminalizes unlawful squatting. First offense is a Class B misdemeanor, second offense Class A, third offense Class D felony. Allows law enforcement to remove squatters without eviction proceedings if they cannot produce a deed, lease, or rent receipt. Staff now posts state law notices on encampments and structures. This is seen as an additional tool. - Demolition Budget: Increased from $150,000 to $300,000 for 2025. So far in 2025, five demolitions completed, with four to five more planned. - Muhammad Raj property (North 8th Street, Belgrove Historic District): Under court order with daily fines; contractor hired; roof and porch being repaired. Staff noted historic district constraints. Key Outcomes - Justin Sparrow elected Chairperson for 2025-2026. - Appeal hearings scheduled for September 4 and September 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. - The preliminary 2025 delinquent lien list was reviewed; staff will continue verification and a final list will be prepared for the appeal hearings. No formal action taken. - The Neighborhood Services Department report was received and discussed. No formal board action, but the board expressed appreciation and noted areas of concern (encampments, squatting, cemetery liens). - Meeting adjourned by motion.