Public Meetings - Fort Smith, Arkansas

The Property Owners Appeal Board of Fort Smith, Arkansas, held a regular meeting on September 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Blue Lion facility, 101 North 2nd Street, Room B. The board considered one variance request and unanimously approved it. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 13, 2026): The board voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the July 13, 2026 meeting as presented. Discussion Items - Variance No. 26-0002 – 6916 Alianna Way: Applicant Nicholas Griffin requested a variance from Section 14-52(c)(5) of the Fort Smith Municipal Code, which limits improved surface area for parking vehicles in the front yard to 50% of the gross front yard area for lots on a cul-de-sac. The property is located in the Alianna at the Hub Planned Zoning District (PZD), a private gated community with small lots. Lot 6 is only 16 feet wide at the front, has a multi-use trail along one side, and the house design was pushed forward to minimize driveway length, resulting in over 60 feet from garage to roadway. Griffin stated the lot’s narrowness and the trail make it impossible to meet the 50% requirement while providing a serviceable driveway. Staff from the Neighborhood Services Division (including Director Shawn Gard and Building Official Jesse Bennett) recommended approval, noting the lot’s exceptional narrowness and that the variance would not be detrimental to the public interest. Board members expressed support, noting the unique lot shape and that the proposal did not stand out from the neighborhood. Key Outcomes - Motion and Unanimous Approval: Member Pete Hanham made a motion to approve Variance No. 26-0002, seconded by Randy Hall. The board voted unanimously (4-0) in favor. The variance allows the applicant to exceed the 50% improved surface area limit for the front yard on the cul-de-sac lot. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after the vote.

The CBID Commission met on September 8, 2026, with Chair Bill presiding. Commissioners present: Trent, Jeff, Phil, Matt, Leanne, and new commissioner Eric Hartness. Sam Seacard was absent. The meeting covered financial reports, city department updates, ambassador program, Main Street Fort Smith contract and initiatives, strategic planning for future capital projects, a discussion of the R Dot traffic study on Garrison Avenue, and a proposal for a public outreach flyer. The board also discussed leadership succession. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the previous meeting were approved by unanimous vote. - Treasurer Report (Jeff): Financials through October 31 were presented. The Garrison Courtyard pocket park project is complete; remaining encumbrances include irrigation system repairs. The board approved the financial report. Public Comments & Testimony - No separate public comment period was held, but several stakeholders provided updates: - Sarah (City Staff): Reported that irrigation system repairs are complete; contractor Fred Sharon requested written assurance that CDIB will continue maintenance funding. The board approved a motion to provide such a letter. - Josh (City Staff): Announced completion of the Garrison Courtyard pocket park and installation of a CDIB recognition sign. Upcoming solar array installation in the farmers market parking lot is expected to be operational by March 2027. - Ambassador (John?): Provided updates on homeless outreach, noting success in moving a long-term homeless individual (“Squirrel”) into housing. Reported that congregating has shifted from Garrison Avenue to other areas. - Hope Campus Representative: Reported on rental assistance ($10,000/month) to prevent evictions, a planned fence around the pavilion (county approval pending), and a trash pickup program with homeless residents. Discussion Items - Main Street Fort Smith Contract (Amanda): Amanda presented a revised contract for shared services. The board discussed an auto-renewal clause that appeared contradictory; it was agreed to clean up the language. The board approved the contract contingent on the change. Amanda also reported on a $30,000 state revitalization grant, with $15,000 earmarked for a mini-grant program (10 applicants). Cocoa Crawl and tree lighting events were announced for December. The Levitt Amp concert series will shift to a fall series in 2027. - Strategic Plan and Future Projects: The board revisited the 2024 strategic plan. Chair Bill proposed focusing on the riverfront entrance project on A Street (estimated $160,000+). Other ideas included lighting under the Garrison Avenue Bridge and a sound system for Levitt Amp (cost under $50,000). The board agreed that members should each submit a project proposal with a funding plan (including private donations) by the January meeting. - R Dot Traffic Study: Discussion of the Garrison Avenue truck traffic study. Commissioners expressed frustration that the study offered no actionable solutions and noted the high cost of alternatives (up to $120 million). The board decided to continue advocacy, including meeting with highway commissioner Keith Gibson to discuss funding and potential replacement for his seat. - Public Outreach Flyer (Matt): Matt proposed a one-page flyer to communicate CBID achievements and future plans. The board suggested including a district map, photos of completed projects (bike/skate park, splash pads, pocket park), and mention of secured land for expansion (adjacent to skate park). A suggestion was made to create a more comprehensive website. Key Outcomes - Motion to Provide Letter of Assurance to Fred Sharon: Approved (unanimous) to commit to ongoing maintenance of irrigation system. - Motion to Approve Main Street Contract: Approved contingent on correction of auto-renewal language (unanimous). - Direction to Submit Project Proposals: Each commissioner to submit one or two preferred capital projects with a funding plan to Jeff by mid-December for discussion at the January 2027 meeting. - Leadership Succession: Chair Bill expressed willingness to step down; Matt expressed interest. The board agreed to add a formal discussion item for the next meeting (December 18, 2026). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for December 18, 2026. Note: The transcript references upcoming events (e.g., December 1 holiday lights, December 6 event) which are consistent with a late-2026 meeting date, though the provided meeting date of September 8, 2026, would place these events three months in the future.

The Central Business Improvement District (CBID) Board of Commissioners met on September 8, 2026, at 3:30 PM at The Bakery District in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The meeting covered routine approvals, reports from city departments and downtown partners, and discussion of a proposed service agreement with Main Street Fort Smith to fund a shared Downtown Growth and Grants Specialist position. No public comments were recorded. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the minutes of the September 18, 2025 regular meeting. (Note: The date of the prior meeting, as recorded in the agenda, is September 18, 2025; the current meeting date is specified as September 8, 2026.) - Treasurer’s Report: The financial report for the period ended September 30, 2025 was presented, showing a beginning FY2025 fund balance of $342,803 and a current fund balance of $262,267 after all expenses through September 30. The board unanimously approved the report. Reports & Presentations - City Reports: Code enforcement, permits, and parks updates were provided. A memo detailing building permits issued in the CBID during 2025 (through September 18, 2025) was distributed, listing 24 permits for work including demolition, roofing, mechanical, and tenant infill. - FSPD Downtown Officer/Ambassador Update: No specific report was transcribed, but the agenda included this item. - Main Street Fort Smith Report: Amanda Hager, Executive Director of Main Street Fort Smith, provided an update on downtown activities, including ongoing sponsorship requests and the proposed service agreement. Discussion Items - Service Agreement with Main Street Fort Smith: The board considered a proposed one-year service agreement (with automatic annual renewal) under which CBID would fund 60% ($26,328 per year) of the salary and benefits for a full-time Downtown Growth and Grants Specialist. The specialist would be hired and managed by Main Street Fort Smith and would focus on business outreach, grant research and application, and project management within the CBID district. The agreement included quarterly reporting requirements and a 60-day termination clause. The discussion followed up on a proposal presented at the September 18, 2025 meeting, during which the board had requested a formal agreement for October consideration. The board debated the appropriate use of assessment funds for staffing versus capital projects, and there was interest in developing a policy for event sponsorship requests. No final vote was recorded in the available materials. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes and Financial Report: Both were approved unanimously. - Service Agreement: The board discussed the proposed agreement but did not take a recorded vote during the meeting. The item was left pending further consideration or policy development. - Meeting Schedule: The next regular meeting was scheduled for November 20, 2025 (as per the agenda). Notes - The agenda listed a public comments period, but no comments were transcribed. - The meeting adjourned after approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The Fort Smith Central Business Improvement District (CBID) Commission held a regular meeting on the date specified. However, the provided agenda is dated Thursday, April 16, 2026, and the accompanying minutes are from the March 19, 2026 meeting. No transcript or minutes for the September 8, 2026 meeting were provided. Therefore, this summary is based solely on the agenda items listed for the April 16 meeting, with the understanding that the actual meeting date per instruction is September 8, 2026. The following sections reflect the agenda. Consent Calendar - Call to order, roll call, and approval of minutes from March 19, 2026 regular meeting. - Treasurer’s Report: Review of CBID fund budget report for March 31, 2026. Presentations & Reports - Code Enforcement/Permits reports. - Parks Department update by Sara Deuster. - Citizen Services/Canopy Project update by Joshua Robertson. - Downtown Officer/Ambassador update by Cpl. Solis. - Main Street Fort Smith report by Amanda Hager. - Fort Smith General Darby Challenge presentation by Caroline Speir. Discussion Items - Discussion regarding Butterfield Trails Sculpture Materials Quote by Phil White. - Discussion regarding the Riverfront Gateway Project by Phil White. Public Comments - Time for public comments (none recorded in the agenda). Meeting Schedule - Next regular meeting scheduled for May 21, 2026. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or directives are available as no transcript or minutes of the meeting were provided. The agenda indicates items for discussion only. Note: The date discrepancy between the instruction (September 8, 2026) and the provided agenda (April 16, 2026) is acknowledged.

The Fort Smith Board of Directors held a study session on September 8, 2026, at the Blue Lion. The meeting included presentations and discussions on the Fort Smith Regional Airport, Sunday alcohol sales for off-premises consumption, 2027 departmental service objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs), and options to purchase Deer Trails Golf Course. The public comment period featured widespread calls for transparency regarding a recent cybersecurity attack, as well as input on city property sales, employee morale, and other issues. Public Comments & Testimony - Patrick Maguire raised concerns about late invoice payments and questioned payments made to the city by itself, urging greater involvement of internal audit in accounts payable. - Stephen Cox argued against data center development in Fort Smith, citing water scarcity, noise, electricity costs, and state laws (Act 307) that may force local taxpayers to cover infrastructure costs. He noted that board members indicated a desire to make it difficult for data centers and asked if any had signed NDAs (none acknowledged). - Eric Widman presented a list of city-owned properties he believes could be sold to generate revenue, including flood buyout parcels and land with no current purpose, and requested the list be provided to the public. - Dan Williams expressed opposition to purchasing Deer Trails Golf Course, arguing the city should focus on basic services, employee retention, and infrastructure rather than acquiring new property. He cited a 21% city employee turnover rate and called for better career paths and support. - Natalia Deer urged the board to address homelessness with compassion and direct outreach, emphasizing that homeless individuals are hurting and need human connection. - Casey Millspaw commended the shift from negative to constructive public participation, supported Sunday alcohol sales, opposed Deer Trails purchase, and pointed out numerous errors in the departmental KPIs (e.g., mislabeled years, missing data) and questioned who validates the data before it reaches the board. - Jason Skarbitz questioned funding for airport projects, advocated for Sunday alcohol sales, and criticized the board's silence on the August cybersecurity attack and the closed-door recess during the August 18 regular meeting. - Glenn Forte complained about unresponsive city officials and alleged misconduct by a building inspector, stating he was arrested after being told not to enter his own property. - Janie Pugh called for transparency and proactive defense against cyber threats to water systems, 911 dispatch, and city data, referencing a recent hack. - Joey McCutcheon demanded answers about the cybersecurity attack, noting that over 1,000 employees and 36,000 residents may have had personal data compromised, and questioned whether the city had conducted vulnerability testing. He cited a 2021 audit that raised insurance coverage concerns. - Shane McKinney criticized the lack of transparency about the cyberattack, stating that silence leads to speculation, and shared his own experience of having to push technology adoption in Fort Smith. He noted that city officials commented on his video but did not provide clarity. - Richard Morris accused Directors Christina Catsavis of displaying hostility and suggested she may have a psychological condition, which led to an interruption by Director George Catsavis and a brief exchange. The Mayor allowed him to continue. - Joe Elskin thanked the airport for its presentation, asked if audit training is available to the audit committee, and urged the board to prioritize listening to and respecting employees. - Chris Connelli expressed concern over the lack of information on the cyberattack and criticized the recess during the August 18 meeting, citing an attorney who called the private discussions

The Fort Smith Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment held a regular meeting on September 8, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Blue Lion Downtown. Commissioners present: Vicki Newton, David Tyler, Kelly Wilson, Rod Coleman, Jackson Mendenhall, Ret Taylor, Griffin Hanna, Shaun McCaffrey. The meeting covered six agenda items, including a final plat, a conditional use permit, a temporary use permit, a variance and accompanying development plan, and amendments to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) regarding data centers. Consent Calendar - Approval of August 11, 2026 Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously on a motion by David Tyler, seconded by Ret Taylor. Discussion Items 1. Final Plat – Serington – Crafton Tull - Staff Report (Tyler Miller): The final plat covers three lots totaling approximately five acres, the first phase of a 54-acre property at the eastern quadrant of Chad Colley Boulevard and Massard Road. Approval will facilitate storm drainage lots. Staff recommended approval with conditions including utility easements, shared maintenance agreements, automatic irrigation, and sidewalks. - Commission Action: Motion to approve with staff comments carried 7 in favor (Newton, Tyler, Wilson, Mendenhall, Taylor, Hanna, McCaffrey), 1 abstention (Coleman). 2. Conditional Use 14-9-26 – Contractor’s Shop and Storage Yard at 5900 Highway 271 South - Staff Report (Victoria Walls): Request by Robby Raggio for BPR Commercial Properties, LLC to operate an excavation contractor’s shop and storage yard on a 0.75-acre site zoned C-5 and I-1. A neighborhood meeting on August 31, 2026 had one attendee concerned about large equipment; applicant stated no such equipment would be stored. Staff recommended approval with conditions including an opaque fence for outdoor storage and parking lot striping. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Wilson questioned the fence requirement for an existing site; staff clarified the fence is only required if outdoor storage occurs. Commissioner expressed concern about fence wear and tear but no change made. - Commission Action: Motion to approve with staff comments carried 8-0 (all present voting yes). 3. Temporary Use 3-9-26 – Temporary Medical Office Building at 7301 Rogers Avenue - Staff Report (Victoria Walls): Request by Studio 6 Architects for St. Edward Mercy Medical Center for a temporary 580 sq. ft. medical office building, two 20’x20’ awning tents, and a bathroom trailer until September 1, 2028, on a 42.26-acre site in PZD 90-21. The facility will provide cancer treatment services. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Presentation: Mr. McFarron stated the building will be used for patient procedures (about 15 patients/day), with visitors waiting outside a fenced area. Hours are 7 AM to 5 PM, no generators. The current hospital facility is maxed out, operating seven days a week until midnight; a new LINAC is expected to open in April 2027. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner asked about noise and appearance; the site is tucked behind a retaining wall and not visible to neighbors. - Commission Action: Motion to approve with staff comments carried 8-0. 4. Variance 27-9-26 – Interior Side Yard Setback Reduction at 2612 South O Street - Staff Report (Tyler Miller): Request by Hart-to-Hart Investments LLP for a variance from 10 feet to 0 feet interior side yard setback to extend a roof eave on an existing art studio/salon building (constructed circa 1950). The building is legal non-conforming; the eave would encroach further. A complaint was filed by the neighboring eastern property owner; a stop work order was issued. A neighborhood meeting on September 2, 2026 had no attendees. Staff remained neutral. - Applicant Presentation (Gene Hart, owner): Explained the need to protect tenants and customers from weather. He had started construction without a permit due to a misunderstanding; he has since removed the work. The neighbor is okay with the project. He agreed to install a 6-inch gutter with downspouts. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Hanna asked about gutter size; a motion was made to approve with staff comments plus a condition requiring a 6-inch gutter and two 6-inch downspouts. Staff clarified the variance is tied to the site plan and does not allow building a wall. Commissioner asked about non-conforming status; staff confirmed the variance only affects this eave. - Board of Zoning Adjustment Action: Motion to approve with amended conditions carried 6 in favor (Wilson, Newton, Tyler, Mendenhall, Taylor, Coleman), 2 opposed (Hanna, McCaffrey). 5. Development Plan 16-9-26 – Addition to Existing Art Studio and Salon at 2612 South O Street - Staff Report (Tyler Miller): Companion to the variance; development plan approval for the roof eave extension. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Commission Discussion: Same as variance discussion. Commissioner asked if the variance would allow a wall; staff said no. - Commission Action: Motion to approve with staff comments carried 6-2 (same vote as variance). 6. UDO Amendments – Data Center Regulations - Staff Report (Tyler Miller): Following an August 11, 2026 Board of Directors study session, staff proposed amendments to add a Development Plan (DP) requirement for data centers in I-1, I-2, and I-3 zoning districts, requiring review by Planning Commission and approval by the Board of Directors. Additionally, design standards include: 500-foot setbacks from all property lines, an 8-foot opaque decorative wall, and a requirement for letters from public utilities confirming capacity and transmission upgrades. No data centers have approached Fort Smith; the amendment is proactive. Staff recommended approval. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Taylor asked about the definition of data center; staff provided the definition from the 2023 ordinance. Commissioner asked about by-right possibilities; staff confirmed DP requires review. Commissioner asked about model cities; staff drew from Little Rock, Fayetteville, and APA guidelines. Commissioner asked about surcharges; staff said franchise fees apply but additional surcharges could be imposed by the Board. Commissioner Coleman suggested adding a staining requirement for opaque fences; staff agreed to consider it for future amendments but did not change the current motion. - Commission Action: Motion to approve carried 8-0. Key Outcomes - Final Plat – Serington: Approved (7-1 abstention). - Conditional Use – Contractor’s Shop: Approved (8-0). - Temporary Use – Medical Office: Approved (8-0). - Variance – Side Yard Setback: Approved as amended (6-2). - Development Plan – Roof Eave Extension: Approved (6-2). - UDO Amendments – Data Centers: Approved (8-0), to be forwarded to the City Board of Directors for final action at their October 5, 2026 meeting. Note: The meeting included a recess to convene the Board of Zoning Adjustment for the variance item. All actions are final unless appealed.

This was a regularly scheduled meeting of the Central Business Improvement District (CBID) Board. Key actions included a leadership transition, adoption of the riverfront gateway as the next major project, and reports from city departments and partner organizations. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the previous meeting. - Approved the treasurer's report as presented, noting year-to-date collections of $213,803, a fund balance of $331,297, and committed expenses of approximately $200,000 for personnel (ambassador and officer positions). Discretionary funds were estimated at roughly $150,000, with an additional $600/month from a lease and about $7,000 annually. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephanie (representing an association) reported that 98 organizations participated in a holiday parade, and the downtown ball drop is fully funded. - A discussion arose regarding safety at the splash pad near the railroad tracks. A board member requested that the Parks Department install a fence to prevent children from running toward the tracks. Sarah (Parks Department) indicated the department lacks budget but could proceed if the CBID funds it. A motion was made to obtain a quote for a decorative fence, with a request to have it by the next meeting. Discussion Items - Leadership Change: The chairman resigned, nominating Matt Holland as the new chair and Trent Govins as vice chair. The motion passed unanimously. The outgoing chairman stated the decision was made to bring "new energy" and "new ways of doing things." - Treasurer's Report Review: Staff clarified that the assessment is enforced as a property tax (liens can be filed). The fund balance reflects cash on hand, and most ongoing obligations (clean & green, ambassador program) are included in the 2026 budget. - Building Permits: A new tenant is opening a bar in the C&H building. Concern was raised about its proximity to a Catholic church, as state law prohibits bars within a certain distance. The board suggested verifying compliance before the lease is signed. - Parks Report (Sarah): The first public open house for the former Acme property was held with good turnout. RDG planning firm will present results to the Board of Directors on January 13, 2027 (study session) and to the Parks Commission on January 14, 2027. - Police Report (Corporal Sales): Reported an increase in thefts in November due to unattended materials from bridge construction; arrests were made. Graffiti incidents have dropped after deploying cameras and increased patrols. Panhandling issues remain, with arrests for aggressive behavior. The trolley museum is under new management and is being cleaned up with trespass enforcement. 520 parking meters were given away during a promotional event. - Main Street Fort Smith (Amanda): Announced hiring of Becca Duff as a full-time downtown growth and retention specialist, starting January 12, 2027. A community survey (1,200 respondents) will be shared with the CBID and city leadership; top desired activity was music performances. The CBID awarded $16,000 in matching grants to seven projects out of 12 applicants. - Joshua (Public Works/Parks?): The solar array canopy for the farmers market is delayed but will be completed by end of March 2027. Discussion included adding LED lighting underneath for security and aesthetics; staff will obtain cost estimates. - Project Selection for 2026: The board focused on two options from the MAHG list: the A Street project (estimated $525,000) and the riverfront gateway (estimated $165,000). After discussion, a motion was made and seconded to make the riverfront gateway the board's focus for 2026. The motion noted the project's visibility and affordability, with the understanding that final financial commitment will be determined after detailed planning. The motion passed unanimously. Staff will coordinate with engineering and streets departments to refine the scope and cost. - Stage/Amphitheater Enhancement: A quote for a smaller performance setup (PA system and basic lights) was estimated at $50,000–$75,000. The board expressed interest but did not vote; the riverfront gateway project is the immediate priority. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of new board leadership: Matt Holland (Chair), Trent Govins (Vice Chair). - The riverfront gateway project (estimated $165,000) was selected as the CBID's next priority project for 2026/2027. - Staff will obtain quotes for a safety fence at the splash pad and for LED lighting under the farmers market canopy. - The next meeting is scheduled for January 15, 2027.

The Central Business Improvement District (CBID) held its regular monthly meeting on September 6, 2026. The meeting covered consent items, departmental reports, community project presentations, and public comments. Key actions included approval of minutes and financial report, a tied vote on solar canopy lighting, and discussions on a buddy bench initiative and downtown monument/plaza ideas. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Financial Report: Treasurer reported a small loss with cash dropping from $303,000 to $296,000; assessments are back-loaded. Approved unanimously. Reports - Code Enforcement: Citations for 521 and 801 (Warren Garrison / Lord Garrison) showed no exterior progress. A new business at 911 Garrison and City Hall interior remodel noted. - Parks & Facilities: Compass Park Splash Pad fencing final cost under $10,000; CBID contribution reduced to $5,000. Cisterna Park Pump House redesign to raise floor 5 feet; bids open next week. Fountain liner replacement planned for summer. - Citizen Services – Solar Canopies: Installation ahead of schedule, inverters going in, on track for March. Lighting proposal: Garrison Bridge ($20,000+, no lights included) vs. canopy lights (all-in price). Discussion favored canopy lighting. - Police Department: Corporal Selease reported Rooster's voluntary 4-month closure; overnight ops led to 6 arrests (including defecation); camera at 5th & A; pedestrian safety video; Operation Downtown Overwatch poster with QR code. - Main Street Fort Smith: Small business incubator “Commerce Collective” – location secured, applications open early March, move-in May, launch June. Levitt concert series: 7 consecutive Thursdays starting Sept 10; need $28,000 match. 2025 stats: 19 new businesses, 4 closures, $15M private investment. Discussion Items - Buddy Bench Initiative (No More Stigma): Founder Eric proposed brightly colored benches for mental health conversation starters, costing $,2,500 each. Benches would have signs with hotline numbers. Two already sponsored. CBID members expressed concerns about using district funds and suggested private placement. No formal action taken. - Community Project Ideas (Jim Spears): Judge Spears proposed: 1) a laser-cut steel stagecoach silhouette monument (life-size, possibly built with college) and 2) a pedestrian plaza closing a section of Rogers Avenue near Gateway Park and First Baptist Church. CBID directed Phil to explore costs and feasibility with Galen Hunter. Public Comments - Next Step Housing: Tiny homes project fully funded; awaiting federal paperwork for groundbreaking at 6th & High streets; construction 12–16 months. - Downtown Business Association (Stephanie): General meetings moved to fourth Tuesday mornings; Pub Crawl on March 14 with River Boy and collector cups. - Tourism (Ashley): Fort Smith Dine Local Week starts Feb 9 (30 restaurants); disaster relief fund for restaurant workers seeded by Tankersley; Great American Conference basketball tournament March 4–8 at Northside. Key Outcomes - Lighting for Solar Canopies: Motion to provide 50% match (up to $13,000) for canopy LED lights resulted in a 3-3 tie. The chair directed staff to proceed with offering the match to the city, pending budget confirmation. - Stagecoach Monument & Plaza: Staff directed to begin cost estimation and coordination for the stagecoach monument; further discussion on the plaza concept to follow. - Board Resignation: Noted resignation of board member Lynn, effective February 28.

The CBID board met on September 6, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the cooler room at the bakery. The meeting covered routine approvals, departmental reports, and extensive public comments regarding homelessness, a downtown statue controversy, and communication issues. Consent Calendar - Motion passed to excuse Commissioners Bill White and Stuart Yan for absence. - Minutes from the previous meeting were approved as presented. - Treasurer's report accepted: Year-to-date revenues of $52,000, expenses of $104,000, resulting in a cash position decline from $304,000 to $252,000 at the end of May. The decrease was described as intentional due to the revenue cycle. Public Comments & Testimony - Joey McCutchen: Expressed concern over the homeless crisis, criticizing the board for not engaging with city-wide issues. He alleged an ongoing insurance fraud scheme targeting homeless individuals, involving shipping them to out-of-state rehab and billing insurance. Called for a comprehensive, collaborative approach involving the board, police, and social services. - Jack Willinger: Described personal experiences of harassment by homeless individuals downtown and questioned the accessibility of the new e-bike voucher program for disabled and low-income residents without internet access. Asked for details on eligibility and safety requirements (e.g., helmets). - Joe Armstrong (first speaker about Darby statue): Voiced strong opposition to the raised pump house at the William O. Darby statue site, arguing it dwarfs the statue and shows disregard for the statue's historical significance. Offered to fund relocation of the statue to Fort Benning if the city does not want to maintain it properly. Claimed he previously offered up to $75,000 in additional donations for the park. - Unidentified male speaker (communications activist): Criticized the board for lack of proactive communication and transparency, stating that emailed inquiries to board members went unanswered. Urged the board to embrace modern communication methods and engage with citizens, warning that continued isolation could lead to efforts to dissolve the CBID. - Retired ranger (supporting Joe Armstrong): Reinforced the disrespect felt by the military community regarding the pump house modification, emphasizing the need to honor General Darby's legacy. - Asher Becker (Discover Fort Smith): Reminded that the advertising commission is funded by hotel lodging tax, not taxpayer dollars. Urged attendees to share positive stories about the city to counterbalance negativity. - Stephanie Nigent (Fort Smith Downtown Business Association): Highlighted upcoming events (Food Truck Festival September 26, Fall Festival October 24, Ball Drop December 31) and stated she feels safe downtown as a business owner working late. Discussion Items - Code Enforcement (Sean Gardner, Director): Reported that the 521 Garrison building windows should be repaired within 30 days. The West End Park (15 North Second) underwent extensive abatement for overgrowth, trash, and homeless encampments; the property will be maintained monthly with liens placed for costs. Homeless activity remains an issue citywide. Three inspectors are now on staff, exceeding last year's enforcement numbers. Requested a list of property owner contacts in the CBID to facilitate informal compliance. - Parks Department (representative): Provided updates on three projects: - Darby Park Pump House: Raised approximately five feet to prevent flooding. Original bids were over budget; re-bid at just under $140,000. The same stone mason is restoring the exterior to match the statue pedestal. Commissioner expressed concern about the elevation dwarfing the statue, and citizens stated they were not consulted despite prior promises. - Bass Roots Legacy Loop: Original $25 million Build Grant was for a path costing over $40 million. A revised scope (a direct route down Old Greenwood Road) is estimated at just under $30 million with a 30% contingency, to be bid in 2029. No city match is required for the grant. - Butterfield Trails Stage Coach Monument: Working with CBID to install a sidewalk for safety; public works will remove a parking area. - Citizen Services (Joshua Robertson): Solar canopy project closing in July. Clarified that the e-bike voucher program (funded by a Climate Pollution Reduction Grant) is for individual purchases, not a bike share. Low-income residents can get up to $1,200; general public up to $700. Application portal opens July 6. The alley project (five alleys) contractor was terminated; the city is pursuing a new contractor via the surety. - Police (Corporal Solis): Continuing zero-tolerance patrols downtown. Graffiti has spiked in Escape Park (likely juveniles). Four trailer cameras deployed. Began educational sessions at homeless shelters to explain laws (e.g., trespassing, littering). Splash pad signage still pending legal review. Cited close coordination with code enforcement. - Main Street Fort Smith (Hager): Next round of exterior improvement mini-grants opened; applications due September 1, projects by March 15, 2027. Last year, $11,000 in grants leveraged $80,000 in private investment. Also announced the Garrison Arts Walk on November 7 (applications open) and the Brew on the Border fundraiser for the Museum of History on July 25. - Riverfront Gateway Project: A scaled-down concept from MAHG was presented, removing the archway and focusing on a monument and sidewalk. ARDOT indicated three feet of space available. Engineering costs not yet budgeted; discussion deferred to next meeting, with Galen invited to provide insight. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items (excused absences, minutes, treasurer's report) approved by voice vote. - Riverfront Gateway discussion tabled until the July 16, 2026 meeting, where an engineer will present further details. - Next CBID meeting scheduled for July 16, 2026, at 9:30 AM in the same location. - Several public comments called for improved communication and collaboration, which the board acknowledged. No formal actions were taken on homelessness or the pump house dispute. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 11:20 AM.