Fort Smith seeks input on proposed water rate increases

Elena Ramirez
·1 min read

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Fort Smith residents are being asked to participate in a proposed water rate increase by going to a community input session or an online survey.

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Residents will be able to learn about the details of the proposal, ask questions and speak to city officials and the water utilities department, according to a news release.

The proposed water rates are said to help cover both operating and maintenance costs including supplying infrastructure that is needed for the city, according to the water rates survey. Some infrastructure the rates will help support include:

  • To build a 48-inch water transmission line from Lake Fort Smith to the City of Fort Smith.

  • To rehabilitate and expand the Lake Fort Smith water treatment plant.

  • To paint water tanks and towers.

  • To upgrade water meters so account holders can see and receive real-time water use.

The increased rates will also help pay existing debt and meet the required debt coverage to comply with bond agreements.

More information on the water rate changes can be found on the water rates survey.

The community input session will be from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, May 20 at The Blue Lion, 101 N. 2nd St., Fort Smith, AR 72901.

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An online survey is available to residents who will not be able to attend. The short survey is open from today until Sunday, May 19 at 11:59 p.m. according to a news release.

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