City HallWednesday, November 4
Fort Smith voters approve switching to a mayor-council government
The Daily Fort Smith team
Fort Smith voters have approved changing the city's form of government, unofficial results show. The proposal got 14,322 votes in favor and 5,863 against, and Talk Business & Politics says it passed by 8,459 votes.
Fort Smith voters approved the mayor-council change by 8,459 votes
Unofficial results from the Sebastian County Election Commission
Change to mayor-council government
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Talk Business & Politics
View as table
| Race | Candidate | Votes | Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change to mayor-council government | For, won | 14,322 | 71.0% |
| Change to mayor-council government | Against | 5,863 | 29.0% |
If you're wondering what changes tomorrow: nothing. Fort Smith keeps its seven-member Board of Directors and hired city administrator through a two-year transition. Under the new system, an elected mayor runs city government, and an eight-member City Council, two from each of four wards, handles lawmaking. The mayor elected this year won't automatically become that executive mayor.
- Next elections under the new system: November 2028
- New officials take office: Jan. 1, 2029
- Also elected: city clerk, city attorney and city treasurer
- More information: VoteFortSmith.com
Officials elected under the new system would take office in January 2029
- Aug. 3Petition drive submits its signatures.
- Aug. 18City clerk certifies the petition and the Board of Directors votes 7-0 to call an election.
- Nov. 3Voters approve the mayor-council proposal.
- Nov. 2028Elections for officials under the new system are planned.
- Jan. 2029Officials elected under the new system would take office.
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Talk Business & Politics
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Talk Business & Politics