Fort Smith School Board approves “5 million bond package for construction – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
The Fort Smith Public School Board gave narrow approval on Monday to a $15 million bond package designed to tackle long-standing maintenance and renovation needs. Developed with assistance from Stephens Inc., the financing targets roof repairs, drainage fixes, and other infrastructure work that district leaders have identified as priorities. The move reflects ongoing efforts to keep facilities functional for students and staff amid a growing list of capital demands.
Projects Targeted by the Bond Revenue
The approved funds will support a specific set of improvements spread across multiple campuses. Roof repairs at Northside High School account for the largest single allocation, while drainage work at the Peak Innovation Center follows closely behind. Additional spending covers districtwide needs such as playground equipment and heating and cooling system controls.
- Northside High School roof repair: $4.2 million
- Peak Innovation Center drainage phases 3 and 4: $3.25 million
- Districtwide playground equipment: $2.35 million
- Districtwide heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning controls: $1.4 million
- Southside High School roof repair: $1.2 million
- Southside High School heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning controls: $750,000
- Southside High School cafeteria floor: $750,000
- Woods Elementary and Chaffin Middle School parking areas: $400,000
- Southside High School trophy case: $300,000
- Northside High School parking and street work: $200,000
- Chaffin Middle School paved court: $200,000
These allocations were outlined in materials presented to board members ahead of the vote. The district expects to issue the bonds in late July, with the process concluding by the end of August.
Drainage Challenges at the Peak Innovation Center
The bond package also addresses persistent water issues at the Peak Innovation Center, which opened in March 2022 after the district invested more than $20 million from various sources. Flooding occurred shortly after the facility began operations, prompting a lawsuit against the original contractor for alleged construction defects. Earlier phases of drainage work have already been approved, with phase 4 costs now estimated in the millions.
District officials have described the center as a key asset that requires these additional investments to prevent further damage. The current bond funding is intended to complete the remaining drainage phases and stabilize the site for continued use.
Board Discussion and Final Vote
The measure passed by a 4-1 margin, with board members Susan Krafft, Lynnet Lott, Maria Martinez, and Phil Whitaker supporting it. Member Matt Garner voted against the package and raised questions about the district’s decision to work solely with Stephens Inc. rather than seeking additional proposals. Two other members were absent from the meeting.
During earlier discussions, Southside High School principal Jeff Prewitt highlighted the need for a new trophy display area, noting that recent renovations had eliminated space previously used for showcasing student achievements. Many trophies remain in storage as a result.
What Matters Now
The bond approval gives the district a clear timeline to begin work on these projects before the next school year. With issuance scheduled for late summer, contractors and staff can move forward on the most urgent repairs while the district continues to monitor costs and progress at each site. This step provides a structured path to address infrastructure needs that have built up over several years.
