Fort Smith Council considers CBD sales regulations and road safety measures

Concerns over traffic safety and the regulation of CBD sales dominated the Fort Smith Board of Directors study session on May 13, 2025. Residents voiced their frustrations about speeding on local roads, particularly McClure, urging for increased police patrols to curb reckless driving that has turned the area into a "drag strip."

Brian Westy, a local resident, highlighted the need for more law enforcement presence during peak hours, emphasizing the safety risks posed by high-speed vehicles. His comments reflect a growing concern among citizens about traffic safety in residential neighborhoods.

In a significant move, the board discussed the potential regulation of CBD sales within city limits. A motion was proposed to restrict the sale of CBD products to individuals over the age of 21, aligning local regulations with existing state laws governing tobacco products. This proposal aims to address community concerns regarding the accessibility of CBD, especially near schools.

Director Settle supported the motion, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that local laws reflect public health priorities. The board plans to further investigate the legal implications of this regulation before finalizing any decisions.

Additionally, discussions touched on the need for better communication among board members regarding various city issues, including storm mitigation strategies in light of increasing environmental challenges. Joe Elsken, a board member, suggested that assigning specific areas of focus to each director could enhance information flow and proactive measures in addressing potential flooding and infrastructure concerns.

As the meeting concluded, the board acknowledged the importance of citizen engagement in shaping local policies and expressed a commitment to addressing the pressing issues raised by the community. The anticipated outcomes from these discussions will be revisited in future meetings, with a focus on ensuring public safety and effective governance.