Fort Smith addresses flooding impact and billing issues with Arcoma

During a recent study session held by the Fort Smith Board of Directors on May 27, 2025, significant discussions centered around the city's ongoing challenges with flooding and its impact on the local wastewater system. The meeting highlighted the historical context of flooding events that have overwhelmed the city's infrastructure, leading to financial repercussions and the need for improvements.

City officials acknowledged that past flooding incidents had exceeded the physical capacities of the wastewater system, resulting in inaccurate readings and subsequent financial strain. The discussions revealed that the city had previously managed to reduce a substantial debt related to these issues from over $200,000 to under $17,000. However, recent inflow problems have caused this balance to rise again, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the system.

A key point raised was the lack of a formal repayment agreement, which has complicated the financial management of the city's wastewater services. Officials noted that while there have been efforts to address the debt, the absence of a structured plan has hindered progress. The city is actively pursuing grants and funding to implement necessary infrastructure improvements, which are crucial for managing future flooding events.

The meeting also touched on the relationship between Fort Smith and the neighboring city of Arcoma regarding wastewater management. Officials discussed the classification of Arcoma as a wholesale customer, which entails having its own collection system that discharges into Fort Smith's system. This distinction is important for understanding the responsibilities and financial obligations of both cities in managing wastewater services.

Overall, the discussions underscored the pressing need for infrastructure upgrades and a more formalized approach to financial agreements between Fort Smith and Arcoma. As the city continues to face challenges related to flooding and wastewater management, the outcomes of these discussions will be vital in shaping future policies and ensuring the resilience of the community's infrastructure. The board's commitment to addressing these issues indicates a proactive approach to safeguarding public health and environmental standards in Fort Smith.