🌱 FS Increases Ambulance Rate + Peak Center Flooding Investigation

Hi all. I'm back in your inbox this warm morning with your new edition of the Fort Smith Patch newsletter. Keep reading for the most important things happening around town, including updates on:

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Less humid with plenty of sun. High: 97 Low: 72.
• Tuesday: Sunny and very warm. High: 96 Low: 74.

Here are the top stories today in Fort Smith:

1. In a unanimous decision, Fort Smith city directors have approved an increase in ambulance rates, affecting both emergency and non-emergency trips. The base rates for ambulance services within the city have risen by $150 for non-emergency trips and $125 for emergency trips, bringing them to $600 and $750, respectively. The rate increase, which is the first since 2014, is deemed necessary to address rising costs, including fuel expenses, ambulance prices, salaries, and the impact of pandemic-related supply shortages. Despite the adjustment, Fort Smith will continue to offer the lowest base rates among non-tax funded services in the region. (NWA Online)
2. The School Board has announced an investigation into the recurring flooding issues at the Peak Innovation Center, a collaboration between the School District and the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. The repairs are expected to cost nearly $4 million. The center has experienced three instances of flooding, with the most recent incident resulting in water entering the office and nearby unfinished areas. The board has decided to seek the assistance of a consultant to evaluate the drainage system failures and current systems in place, with the consultant reporting directly to the board to ensure impartiality. (Arkansas Online)
3. The Fort Smith Police Department is conducting an investigation into a shooting incident that occurred on Saturday, Jun. 24. The incident took place at approximately 6:16 p.m. in the 3700 block of Grand Avenue. A 20-year-old man sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to the hospital. While no arrests have been made, authorities believe this to be an isolated incident with no immediate danger to the public. The FSPD urges anyone with information regarding the incident to contact them at 479-709-5100 or call 911 in case of an emergency. (5NEWS)

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Today and tomorrow in Fort Smith:

Monday, June 26

• School Board Meeting At Lavaca School District Office (6:00 PM)

Tuesday, June 27

• University of Arkansas-Fort Smith: Adult Degree Program Open House At UAFS- Business & Industrial Institute 105 (4:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• In Fort Smith, the U.S. Foreclosure Market Report for May 2023 revealed that one in every 4,856 housing units was affected by foreclosure. This places Fort Smith at No. 125 out of the top 223 regions in terms of foreclosure rates. While the city experienced a higher rate compared to the state average, it still remains relatively low in comparison to national figures. (TB&P)
• The U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith is opening its doors to the public, providing an immersive experience with interactive exhibits and themed rooms showcasing the history of the Marshals Service. The museum's opening is expected to have a significant economic and cultural impact on the region, attracting visitors and generating jobs and revenue for the community. (NWA Online)
• The City of Fort Smith is hiring for several jobs that are closing this week. View open positions at the link, including project engineers, wastewater mechanics, and heavy equipment mechanics. (City of Fort Smith Employees)

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You're all caught up for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with a new update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.