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Planning Commission approves temporary modular classrooms at Southside High School
Summary
The Fort Smith Planning Commission approved Temporary Use Permit 1326 to allow two modular classrooms at Southside High School through July 31, 2026, to accommodate roof repairs; the permit passed 8–0 with one abstention and includes staff conditions on duration and site requirements.
The Fort Smith Planning Commission on March 10 approved Temporary Use Permit 1326, allowing two temporary modular classrooms at Southside High School (4100 Gary Street) while roof reconstruction and related interior repairs are completed.
Planning staff described the request as an agent application from MAHG Architecture for Fort Smith Public Schools. The two modular buildings are 24 by 68 feet (about 1,632 square feet each) and roughly 12 feet tall; staff said approval would allow placement through July 31, 2026 and noted the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) provision that authorizes temporary classroom facilities provided parking, sanitation and nuisance protections are met. Staff recommended approval.
Nate Deason, partner at MAHG Architecture, told commissioners the temporary classrooms were sited after additional damage was found during a reroofing project and "it's expected to wrap up in July," at which point the modular units and contents will be removed and returned to the main building.
A motion to approve the permit with staff comments was made and seconded. The roll call vote recorded eight in favor and one abstention (Commissioner Kelly Wilson); the motion passed.
The authorization includes the time limit noted by staff and the usual conditions tied to temporary permits in the UDO (compliance with parking, sanitation and non‑nuisance requirements). The commission’s action is final unless an interested party appeals to the City Board of Directors, which hears appeals at a future study session at the Blue Lion (101 North 2nd Street).
