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Fort Smith board reinstates mosquito fogging with parks‑and‑waterway limits, opt‑in for residents
Summary
After public comment and debate about environmental and health risks, the Fort Smith Board of Directors voted 6‑1 on March 17 to reinstate mosquito fogging operations but amended the plan to focus spraying on public parks, main waterways and to offer an opt‑in service for residents who want treatment on private property.
The Fort Smith Board of Directors voted 6‑1 on March 17 to reinstate city mosquito fogging operations, but only after amending the proposal to limit spraying to public parks, primary waterways and congregation areas and to create an opt‑in service for residents who want spraying on private property.
Supporters of limiting or delaying a blanket program said the city lacks data showing the fogging reduces mosquito populations and raised concerns about environmental and public‑health risks. “Permethrin is a non‑selective insecticide,” resident Nancy Rainey told the board, warning that truck or blanket spraying can harm pollinators, aquatic life and pets and urging the city to prioritize larval control and other integrated pest‑management approaches.
Other residents and directors urged a middle ground. “I’m fully in favor of spraying in and around the rivers and in and around the water areas and around the little ponds,” resident Gary Podgurski said, but he opposed spraying the entire city. Director Rigo proposed, and the board approved, an amendment to focus operations on parks and waterways, task staff with GIS mapping to identify high‑risk areas and permit residents to opt in for service on private properties.
Public Works Director Matt Meeker answered technical questions during the discussion and said the fogging product used in the adulticide truck operations is diluted and intended to target adult mosquitoes, while larvicides are handled separately. Several board members emphasized a need for more local data to measure effectiveness before expanding any program in the future; Director Deelmore said she remained opposed, citing budgetary constraints and drivers having been threatened when the program operated previously.
The amended resolution directs staff to implement targeted fogging in identified public spaces and waterways and to set up an opt‑in process for residents. The board directed staff to return with GIS maps and implementation details. The vote on the final, amended resolution was 6 in favor and 1 opposed.
The decision does not specify an exact start date; staff were asked to report back with maps, cost estimates and operational protocols at a future meeting.
