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Fort Smith approves $14.5M EPA grant subaward plan; debate over long‑term maintenance, oversight leads to 4–3 vote
Summary
The Fort Smith Board approved a subrecipient agreement with MetroPlan to administer projects funded by a $14.5 million EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant, directing $11.25 million for city projects and passing the measure 4–3 after extended public comment on long‑term costs and liabilities.
The Fort Smith Board of Directors on Jan. 7 authorized a subrecipient agreement with MetroPlan for projects funded by a $14.5 million EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant, approving the city’s role in administering $11,250,000 in direct project funding and formalizing subrecipient responsibilities. The vote passed 4–3.
Joshua Robertson, Director of Citizen Services and Sustainability, told the board the grant will fund three city-led initiatives: Urban Greenway Rehabilitation, public EV charging infrastructure and solar energy installations. The city will directly receive $11,250,000 for those projects; $3,250,000 of the total award will fund an e‑bike rebate program and workforce development through subrecipients Trail Blazers and the Arkansas Advanced Energy Foundation, which will administer those programs on the city’s behalf. Funding will also support a dedicated staff position for five…
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