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Board agrees to try rotating monthly study sessions in wards to boost public access
Summary
Directors agreed to begin rotating a monthly study-session/Citizens' Forum to different wards starting in March, testing alternate locations to encourage participation from residents who have trouble attending downtown meetings.
The Fort Smith Board of Directors agreed in principle to pilot rotating the first monthly study session and Citizens' Forum in each ward to make meetings more accessible to residents during the Jan. 28, 2025 study session.
City clerk staff proposed potential sites for the four wards: the Bakery District for Ward 1, Elm Grove Community Center for Ward 2, Fort Smith Senior Center for Ward 3 and Fire Station No. 11 for Ward 4, and recommended starting the pilot in March. Director Sewell, who originally proposed the idea, said the goal is to bring the board into neighborhoods and make it easier for citizens — including elderly residents — to attend and speak. “It allows us to have that system formed in the wards so the public can speak to us,” Sewell said.
Some directors cautioned turnout at prior offsite meetings had been low and that live streaming and full audiovisual capabilities would not be available at many alternate venues. The city clerk said state law requires audio recording for such meetings and staff would record sessions using portable devices; live streaming would not be available unless the venue had appropriate equipment. Director Christina Gustavus and Director Kemp voiced support, noting the approach could increase participation among residents who avoid downtown due to one-way streets or parking concerns.
Directors asked staff to confirm alternative sites, check room capacities and consider rotating the order of wards to match venue availability. The board did not adopt a formal ordinance or policy change but asked staff to proceed with logistical checks and to start the pilot in March unless a different schedule proved necessary.
Why it matters: The pilot is intended to improve public engagement by holding meetings closer to residents in the four municipal wards, potentially reducing barriers such as travel, parking and accessibility.
What’s next: Staff to confirm locations and logistics (audio recording, seating, signage) and publish the schedule and instructions for citizens who wish to participate in the Citizens’ Forum at those locations.
