YOUR CITY. YOUR VOTE.
A nonpartisan guide to Fort Smith’s 2026 municipal election
image JOEL LEDBETTER PHOTOGRAPHY
A NOTE FROM DO SOUTH®
Do South Magazine does not endorse any
On November 3, Fort Smith voters will choose the city’s next mayor, fill
candidate for public office, and no candidate has
two contested at-large seats on the board of directors and decide
paid to be included. Every candidate was invited
whether to change the city’s form of government. This guide is a public
to participate and provided the same questions,
service to our readers, providing information to help get to know the
deadline, and editorial space. Responses are
candidates and understand the offices and decisions on this year’s ballot.
published in the candidates’ own words.
WE AS KE D . TH EY AN SWE RE D. YO U DE CI DE .
YOUR CITY. YOUR VOTE.
A nonpartisan guide to Fort Smith’s 2026 municipal election
image JOEL LEDBETTER PHOTOGRAPHY
A NOTE FROM DO SOUTH®
Do South Magazine does not endorse any
On November 3, Fort Smith voters will choose the city’s next mayor, fill
candidate for public office, and no candidate has
two contested at-large seats on the board of directors and decide
paid to be included. Every candidate was invited
whether to change the city’s form of government. This guide is a public
to participate and provided the same questions,
service to our readers, providing information to help get to know the
deadline, and editorial space. Responses are
candidates and understand the offices and decisions on this year’s ballot.
published in the candidates’ own words.
WE AS KE D . TH EY AN SWE RE D. YO U DE CI DE .
ON THE BALLOT
7
Candidates for Mayor
4
3
Candidates for At-Large Position 5
Candidates for At-Large Position 6
HOW DOES FORT SMITH CITY GOVERNMENT WORK?
Fort Smith currently operates under a city administrator form of government. A professional city administrator manages day-to-day city operations, while the elected mayor and seven-member board of directors serve distinctly different roles. YOU — THE VOTER Elect the mayor and seven city directors MAYOR Presides over board meetings and represents the city officially. The mayor does not vote on board matters but has veto authority, except on personnel matters. 7-MEMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS The city’s legislative body. The board establishes policy and hires and oversees the city administrator. ↓ CITY ADMINISTRATOR — Jeff Dingman The city’s professional chief executive officer, responsible for day-to-day city operations. Dingman has served in Fort Smith city administration since 2011 and was appointed city administrator in August 2026. ↓
HOW THE BOARD IS STRUCTURED
Fort Smith’s seven-member board of directors includes four ward directors and three at-large directors. Ward directors represent specific geographic areas of the city, while at-large directors represent the city as a whole and are elected citywide.
ALSO ON THE BALLOT
Voters will also decide whether Fort Smith should change from its current city administrator form to a mayor-council form. CURRENT: CITY ADMINISTRATOR A professional city administrator serves as chief executive and manages day-to-day city operations. The elected mayor presides over the board but does not vote. PROPOSED: MAYOR-COUNCIL Executive and management responsibility would shift to an elected mayor, with an elected city council serving as the legislative body; voters would also elect the city clerk, city attorney and city treasurer. A vote FOR supports changing to the mayorcouncil form.
A vote AGAINST supports keeping the current city administrator form.
If approved, the change would not happen immediately. Elections under the new form would occur in November 2028.
CITY DEPARTMENTS + EMPLOYEES
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
SCAN TO VISIT SebastianCountyAR.gov
EARLY VOTING BEGINS
ELECTION DAY
VOTING INFORMATION
Monday, October 19, 2026
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
479.784.1564
DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM
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Christina Catsavis 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? I believe our best chapters are still ahead, and they’ll be written by people who show up and put in the work. My family has called Fort Smith home for over 100 years. I’m rooted in that history and invested in what comes next through my business and my young daughter. My four years on the board have given me experience and institutional knowledge no other candidate in this race has. Fort Smith is at a pivotal moment, and we need a mayor prepared on day one and focused on the long-term health of our community.
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? Fort Smith needs to rebuild trust between residents and city hall. When expenditures grew faster than revenue, I authored and passed an ordinance placing guardrails on capital spending over $100,000.
FAST FACTS
The mayor may have limited formal authority, but the office has a powerful voice that I would use to earn back the public’s trust.
HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas YEARS IN FORT SMITH: Born and Raised; Returned in 2020
3
EDUCATION: University of Arkansas, Gemological Institute of America
your priorities forward? I’d run efficient meetings and use the veto when needed. I’d use
OCCUPATION: Small Business Owner, Fort Smith City Director FAMILY: Husband, Jonathan; Daughter, Madeline; Two Dogs, Hugo & Phyllo
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move
the mayor’s platform to advocate for Fort Smith, build relationships across all levels of government, and sell our city to potential employers because businesses invest where leadership is visible.
4
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city government, and how would you close it? It’s between what residents want and what gets prioritized. Not one person contacted me in favor of the waterslides. I voted no, yet they passed. Residents asked us to focus on safety, then police and fire
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Fort Smith Board of Directors, At-Large Position 5; Fort Smith Public Library Endowment Advisory Council; Fort Smith Audit Committee
budgets were cut, which I also opposed. Government should listen and act on what the community wants. Small businesses tell us the city can be difficult to navigate, so I’ve proposed transitioning the mayor’s assistant into a small-business liaison. As mayor, I’ll keep
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The sense of community and belonging.
listening and pursuing common-sense solutions.
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I’m Greek and love to cook, especially Greek meals and creating my own recipes.
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Grit. Hard-working. Compassionate.
5
mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I voted yes all three times to place the question on the ballot. We are one of only three Arkansas cities using the city administrator form of government, and I share the frustration of residents who believe the status quo isn’t working. I believe this change will work well, but ultimately, the choice belongs to the voters.
Nataylia Deer 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? Now is the right time for me to run as mayor because truth prevails all, and God is the truth. What happens in the dark always comes to light.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? In working together as a community, bringing people together, and leading them the right way. And I intend to make it happen by showing love and leadership.
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
FAST FACTS
3
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move your priorities forward? By moving in the truth and using guidance with each step I take.
4
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city government, and how would you close it?
HOMETOWN: Arkansas
They don’t know the truth, and they don’t trust them. I would work
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: Off and on
on getting them the truth and getting their trust.
OCCUPATION: Homecare Aide
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the
EDUCATION: Van Buren High School FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: Finding hidden gems. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I’m an artist. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Dark to light.
5
mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I do not believe our community needs this form of government because of the size, but it looks like it is going to happen so if it happens, then we’ll just have to move accordingly.
Sara Harrison 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? I’ve wanted to be mayor for a long time. My background has taught me how to work with all kinds of people, solve problems and stay calm when things get complicated. In the military, I learned to recognize patterns, find where systems break down, and value accountability. I want to bring that way of thinking to Fort Smith.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? We need to keep working on the things that affect people every day: water, roads, sidewalks, public safety, homelessness, local businesses and workforce opportunities. But we also need to ask why problems keep happening. I want to listen to the people experiencing them
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
and the people working on them, find where things are breaking down and help bring people together to fix them.
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Alma, Arkansas
3
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 20+
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move your priorities forward? I would listen to residents, bring their concerns to the board, work with the city administrator and department leaders, and connect people who
OCCUPATION: Artist, Writer & Photographer
may not normally sit at the same table. I would use my veto authority when necessary. I think the mayor’s job is to be an ambassador for the
FAMILY: Husband, Son & a Dog Named Sweets
city and help move the community forward.
EDUCATION: Psychology; Surgical Technology
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: U.S. Air Force Veteran; Founder, AVO Group
4
the process works. Some friends and I are actually working on that now, so stay tuned. Government shouldn’t be something residents
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The history. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I’m a hiker, currently training to hike the Appalachian Trail. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Home. Heart. Potential.
government, and how would you close it? Sometimes people simply don’t know where to go, who to ask or how
have to understand before they can participate. I want to make it easier to connect people with the right department or person.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I believe the people should decide. I see pros and cons to both sides. A mayor-council system could make it easier to act quickly and give voters one person to hold accountable, but more power doesn’t automatically mean better government. It could also put too much authority in one office. I believe Fort Smith can thrive under either system. What matters most is having people who listen, work together and are accountable to the people they serve. Whatever the voters decide, I will respect their decision and continue to serve Fort Smith.
Lee Kemp 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? Fort Smith faces important opportunities and decisions, and I feel prepared to serve. For more than two decades, my work has centered on communication, collaboration, and helping people navigate difficult situations. A mentor challenged me to make my 40s productive by giving back to those who invested in me. I’ve taken that to heart. Now is my time to serve the community that invested in me.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? Fort Smith needs to resist allowing national political polarization to define local government. A pothole or water line is neither conservative nor liberal. We need practical conversations and clear
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
plans showing the options, costs, and reasons behind our decisions. We won’t always agree, but disagreement cannot become paralysis.
FAST FACTS
We need to work through difficult issues and move forward. Standing still has a cost. Fort Smith needs action-based leadership.
HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 38 OCCUPATION: Lead Pastor, Forefront Church
3
can build consensus and keep the Board focused on the larger vision. Leadership is more than casting a vote. It is building understanding and helping people move together despite disagreements.
4
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city government, and how would you close it? Residents often ask for greater transparency, but I believe many are really asking for informed transparency. Making information available matters, but so does explaining why decisions are made. As mayor, I will explain decisions, finances, and major projects so residents know
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The people. They are the number one reason I feel called to public service.
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Welcoming. Hard-working. Compassionate.
Serving as a city director has shown me the mayor’s importance, even available to every director, and getting questions answered. The mayor
EDUCATION: Southside High School, Class of 2002; Liberty University, 2010
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I lost my right eye at age 21 while working on a construction project.
your priorities forward? without a vote. I believe in doing the work before meetings, being
FAMILY: Wife, Sarah; Children, Halie, Andrew, Khloe, Hadassah and Sarah Elizabeth
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Fort Smith City Director, Ward 3; President, Fianna Hills Property Owners Association; Honorary Commander 188th Fighter Wing
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move
what their city government is doing and why.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support keeping our current form. I don’t believe our form is what is holding Fort Smith back. Oklahoma City and many major Texas cities use professional city management successfully. Our elected board should set clear goals, hire the best professionals to carry them out, and hold them accountable for results. Changing the structure doesn’t guarantee better government. Ultimately, it matters who we elect and how we hold them accountable.
Shayne McKinney 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? I’ve spent years improving Fort Smith by starting businesses, creating jobs and bringing dilapidated properties back to life. Too often, the biggest obstacle I encountered was city government itself. Now my children are grown, and I have the time and ability to put that experience to work. Instead of working around problems at city hall, I want to help fix them.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? Changing our form of government is a great start. Next, I want a culture of customer service at city hall. Whether you have a water bill problem, need a permit or simply need help, you should receive the
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
level of respect you’d expect at Chick-fil-A. I’ll highlight great service and create accountability when we fall short.
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Fort Smith/Van Buren, Arkansas
3
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move your priorities forward?
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 45
The mayor has an overlooked superpower, and I’m uniquely qualified
OCCUPATION: Real Estate Investor; Digital Creator
city hall directly to the people. Citizens deserve to understand both
FAMILY: Wife of 25 years; Two Children
shouldn’t be used to pick fights, but it shouldn’t collect dust either.
EDUCATION: University of Arkansas–Fort Smith PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Fort Smith Chamber Young Emerging Leaders Leadership Council; Single Parent Scholarship Fund Board; Leadership Crawford County
to wield it: communication. I can use cameras and social media to bring the “what” and the “why.” Sunshine creates accountability. The veto
4
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Built for more.
government, and how would you close it? The greatest disconnect is that citizens don’t feel heard, and I’ve often felt that way myself. When people believe their voices don’t matter, they stop participating. We can change that by giving citizens a stronger voice and communicating openly about what the city is doing and why. People may not always agree with a decision, but they deserve to know
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: We have the best people. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I’m usually in bed by 10 p.m.
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city
they were heard and understand how that decision was made.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? Absolutely. I’ve spent hundreds of hours fighting and organizing to give citizens the right to vote on this. Today, we have eight part-time elected officials. If voters approve the change, we’ll have an eightmember city council and a full-time mayor answering directly to citizens. We’ve tried the current system for over 50 years. What do we have to show for it? Hundreds of millions in consent decree costs and stagnant growth while other Arkansas cities with mayoral governments have grown tremendously. It’s time to try something different.
Yvette Powers 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? Now is the time because I am prepared to serve and speak for people who feel unheard. Tomorrow is not promised, so when an opportunity to serve comes, you answer it.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? Fort Smith most needs change in how some tenants are treated. Everyone deserves a safe, decent home. As mayor, I would advocate at the state level for stronger habitability protections. Responsible landlords who care for their properties should have nothing to fear, but those allowing unsafe conditions should be held accountable.
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
FAST FACTS
3
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move your priorities forward? I will respect the limits of the office and work with the board, not around it. I would bring citizens’ concerns before the directors, use
HOMETOWN: The Bronx, New York
the veto carefully when necessary, and keep residents informed
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 3
about what the Board decides and why.
OCCUPATION: Retired
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city
FAMILY: Mother & Grandmother
4
city government understands their everyday struggles, including
EDUCATION: B.A., Business Management
low wages. I would listen in neighborhoods, report concerns publicly, and bring employers, educators, and workforce partners
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Serving people experiencing homelessness. FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The Bakery District. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: My age. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Poised for greatness.
government, and how would you close it? The greatest disconnect is that many residents do not believe the
together to expand adult training in electrical work, HVAC, robotics, and medical imaging.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support the change, but I recognize the risk. A mayor-council system would give voters one clearly accountable chief executive and could provide stronger direction. However, the city could lose the stability and expertise of a professional administrator, and major decisions would still require cooperation with the council. I would surround myself with qualified people, seek experienced administrative and financial guidance, and never pretend one person can responsibly manage a $300 million city alone.
Daniel Williams 1
Why is now the right time for you to run for mayor? For 18 years, I’ve worked on the frontlines of our community— helping families recover from addiction, putting meals on tables, and listening to folks who feel forgotten. Fort Smith doesn't need another smooth-talking politician. It needs a practical leader with real-world experience, military discipline, and a genuine heart for working families.
2
Where does Fort Smith most need change, and how would you help? We need to get back to basics: common-sense spending, fixing infrastructure, and tackling addiction and mental health before they overrun our streets. I’ll push for a complete review of where
CANDIDATE FOR MAYOR OF FORT SMITH
our tax dollars are going, build real partnerships between local churches, non-profits, and city resources, and focus on clean, safe
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Hatton, Arkansas YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 18
neighborhoods for every family.
3
The mayor’s real power is the microphone and the relationship with
OCCUPATION: Pastor at Midland Heights Church; Community Mentor; Veterans Court, Mental Health, and Drug Court; Recovery Home Director/Founder FAMILY: Wife, Amy; 4 Children, 5 Grandchildren EDUCATION: A.A., Rich Mountain Community College; B.S. in Human Resource Development, University of Arkansas PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: 8 years, U.S. Army National Guard (11C Mortarman); 18 Years Hosting Free Weekly Community Meals; Founder/ Operator of 8 local Recovery Homes FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The neighborly spirit—when someone is down, this town steps up. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: Before full-time ministry, I spent years working 12-hour shifts on factory floors. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Faithful. Tough. Home.
Given the mayor’s limited formal powers, how would you move your priorities forward? the public. I’ll use that platform to bring citizens into the conversation and hold the board accountable to the people who pay the bills. If a policy wastes tax dollars or ignores the public's best interest, I won't hesitate to use the veto.
4
Where is the greatest disconnect between residents and city government, and how would you close it? People feel like city hall operates behind closed doors and only listens when it’s time to raise taxes or fees. That stops with me. I’ll host regular, informal town halls across every neighborhood—not just downtown—so citizens can speak directly to leadership. Government should serve the people, not the other way around.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I favor giving power back to the voters with the option to vote for it or against it! It puts ultimate responsibility in the hands of someone you can vote out if they don't perform, rather than an unelected bureaucrat. We gain direct accountability and strong advocacy for neighborhoods. What we must guard against is political squabbling, which is why I’ll keep the focus strictly on getting results for Fort Smith. Let the people decide.
Krystal Cadelli 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? I am running because over two years of attending board meetings, researching city issues and proposing solutions convinced me Fort Smith needs stronger financial oversight and focus on basic services. My 21 years in business and several years in the prosecuting attorney’s office give me both business and public-service experience.
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? Our three biggest issues are water and sewer infrastructure and affordability, public safety, and responsible financial management. Water and sewer would be my first priority. I would prioritize critical
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 5
infrastructure, pursue grants and low-interest funding, reduce waste, improve accountability, and exhaust responsible funding options
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas YEARS IN FORT SMITH: Lifelong Resident
before asking citizens to pay more.
3
What would you have done instead? Recent spending decisions involving Parrot Island should have been
OCCUPATION: Contract Manager
handled differently. With aging infrastructure, rising utility costs and public-safety needs, millions in additional amenities should not come
FAMILY: Husband, Chris; Two Children PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; Active Participant in Fort Smith Board Meetings and Community Issues
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
before core responsibilities. I would use zero-based budgeting and prioritize police, fire, streets, water, sewer and drainage.
4
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The people and sense of community.
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? The board should provide stronger oversight of budgets, major contracts, capital projects and outside professional spending. The city administrator should provide complete, candid information
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I enjoy fishing, shooting and riding ATVs.
and keep directors informed. Directors should verify results without micromanaging employees or routine operations, which should
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Strong. Resilient. Home.
remain the administrator’s responsibility.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support changing to a mayor-council form. Voters should directly hold executive leadership accountable. Seven board members can become emotionally attached to a city administrator, while more than 80,000 residents provide broader accountability. An elected mayor offers clearer responsibility, with the board providing checks and balances through strong oversight.
Quinton Cunningham 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? I hope to restore evidence-based policy, total operational transparency, and begin to restore trust in city hall. These cannot be solved with hasty, misaligned decisions or back-channel politics. I’ve brought data in front of the board for years. My approach would defer to experts, weighs all angles, and serves every resident equally.
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? Our top issues are water infrastructure, housing availability, and animal welfare. My immediate focus is aggressively pursuing state and federal grants to offset rate hikes, predictive maintenance to fix
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 5
aging mains before emergency breaks, and enforcing total financial transparency to protect local ratepayers.
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Roland, Oklahoma
3
symptoms rather than root causes. I would start partnering with frontline
OCCUPATION: Paralegal
service providers on actionable, data-backed plans that don't default to punishment. I would do deeper research both for and against any
FAMILY: Wife and Pets
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Independent Animal Rescue
What would you have done instead? For years, Fort Smith has tried to push ordinances that target visible
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 20+
EDUCATION: High School
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
plan, and advocate based on what is best for the citizens while avoiding loopholes that some will abuse.
4
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? The board should strictly ensure staff research is broadcast equally
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The outdoor trails and parks.
to the entire Board and public simultaneously. The board must also
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I’m a writer on the side.
and maintain uncompromised budget oversight. Directors should
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Potential. Heart. Historic.
and administrative execution. Once policy and budgets are adopted,
set clear, data-driven performance metrics for major capital projects defer to the city administrator regarding daily management, staffing, the administrator requires the autonomy to run departments without political interference or micromanagement.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support it, but structural change is only as effective as the leadership elected to implement it. With the wrong people, we risk repeating past mistakes under a new banner. Staying informed and engaged is more vital than ever.
Lavon Morton 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? I am running to use my financial experience to try to help solve the city’s financial challenges. I was involved in developing the financial plan presented to representatives of the federal EPA and Justice Department in 2024, which was the basis for the city securing an additional 11.5 years to complete consent decree work. I want to help develop a responsible funding plan for water infrastructure.
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? Solving the funding shortfall for water infrastructure, monitoring consent decree construction progress, and ensuring police and fire departments
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 5
have appropriate funding to keep residents safe. Water infrastructure funding is the most important issue facing the City.
FAST FACTS HOMETOWN: Quitman, Arkansas
3
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 29
Purchasing the city headquarters building for approximately $4 million in I would have advocated using available long-term financing.
4
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? Greater oversight of consent decree construction progress is needed, including quarterly reports on contracts in progress and percentage
EDUCATION: B.B.A., Accounting, UCA; Master’s in Taxation, University of Tulsa; CPA
of completion. The board should also receive quarterly reports that provide financial and operational information for any organization that receives significant city funding for major programs, including OVG for
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Fort Smith City Director, 2019–2024; City Audit Advisory Committee, 2000–Present* FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: Its strong sense of community, reflected in the many organizations dedicated to helping people.
What would you have done instead? cash was a factor that strained the city’s general fund beginning in 2025.
OCCUPATION: Retired Financial Executive, ArcBest; Former Partner, Ernst & Young FAMILY: Wife, Brenda Yelvington; daughter, Kameron Morton
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
the convention center; Parrot Island Waterpark; Marck Recycling; and Animal Haven. The board should defer to the administrator on matters involving day-to-day city operations.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? Voters should decide. The differences between the current city
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: I used to be extremely shy.
administrator form and the “strong mayor” alternative are significant.
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Great family town.
strongly for Fort Smith residents who had issues with the city. Under
Based on my experience as a city director, I was able to advocate a “strong mayor” form of government, an individual director or council member would likely have less ability to advocate effectively for residents because directors would have no direct connection to city employees, unlike under the current form of government.
Molly Radhakrishnan 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? I am running because my family has planted roots in Fort Smith, and I want to build on our community’s strengths while helping plan for its future. My experience in healthcare, real estate, contracts, finance and conflict resolution has taught me to listen, ask thoughtful questions and make fact-based decisions. Through the Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Fort Smith, Leadership Fort Smith and other community involvement, I have worked to understand our opportunities and challenges.
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? Our three most important issues are aging infrastructure, responsible
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 5
long-term financial planning and smart growth that protects quality of life while helping Fort Smith attract and retain businesses and
FAST FACTS
families. Infrastructure is my first priority because reliable water and
HOMETOWN: Pine Bluff, Arkansas
for a clear plan identifying needs, timelines, funding and financial
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 2
impact on residents. We should address foreseeable problems
OCCUPATION: Executive Broker & Realtor®, Real Broker NWA FAMILY: Husband, Dr. Muthukumar Radhakrishnan; four children, Ethan, Elliot, Emelia and Eli
sewer systems affect every resident and business. I would advocate
before they become costly crises.
3
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: The people and strong sense of community. SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: Before entering Real Estate, I worked as a respiratory therapist, and have since worked in Real Estate in 3 states. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Strong. Resilient. United.
What would you have done instead? Long-term planning for major infrastructure and city-owned facilities should have begun earlier. Waiting until systems reach a critical point can limit options and increase costs. I support regularly evaluating
EDUCATION: B.S., Cardiorespiratory Care, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Main Street Fort Smith board member; Fort Smith Chamber Ambassador; Leadership Fort Smith graduate; community volunteer
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
infrastructure, facilities and funding needs so the board and citizens understand what is coming before urgent decisions are required.
4
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? The board's strongest oversight should remain focused on long-term financial commitments and major infrastructure projects. Directors should ask thoughtful questions, stay informed and support transparency.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support placing the question before voters, but currently favor retaining the city administrator form. It allows the board to hire and oversee a qualified professional to manage daily operations. A mayor-council system offers more direct elected leadership, but elected popularity does not necessarily equal administrative experience. Voters deserve clear information about both systems, and their decision should be respected.
Casey Millspaugh 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? I am running to build a Fort Smith where businesses can succeed, and young people can find meaningful opportunities without leaving home. We must open our city to new investment, business growth and better jobs that create lasting value. Fort Smith has what it needs to thrive, but it needs confident, results-driven leadership. My 20-year career with UPS, experience building a local business and service with community organizations have prepared me to solve problems, manage costs and deliver results. I am a product of Fort Smith, and I am ready to lead.
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 6
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? Infrastructure: Fix aging water, sewer and streets before failures become more expensive. Economic growth: Attract investment
FAST FACTS
reason to stay. Accountable leadership: Set clear priorities, control
HOMETOWN: Fort Smith, Arkansas
spending and measure results publicly.
by lowering the cost, create better jobs and give young people a
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 41 OCCUPATION: Owner, Fort Smith Popcorn Co.
3
infrastructure and public safety needs remained unresolved. The expansion of Parrot Island should have received greater scrutiny regarding cost, long-term subsidies and competing priorities. I would have placed water, streets, police and fire first, required transparent
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Fort Smith Parks Commission, Chairman; Ales for Trails, Director; Clayton House; Trails and Greenway Committee
financial projections and asked whether the project strengthened a core city service before committing taxpayer money.
4
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? The most important oversight responsibility is ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and aligned with clearly established
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: Turned down an opportunity to relocate Fort Smith Popcorn Co. to Dallas in 2025 because I love Fort Smith. FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Ready for leadership.
What would you have done instead? Fort Smith should not have prioritized new amenities while essential
EDUCATION: First Lutheran School; Southside High School (2003); B.B.A., University of Arkansas–Fort Smith (2011)
FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: Its hardworking, down-south-nice people.
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
priorities. Directors must carefully scrutinize spending, prevent the city from compounding unsuccessful investments and treat budget amendments as rare exceptions not routine practice.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? I support the change. After considerable thought, I believe years of delayed action, weak accountability and citizens feeling ignored demonstrate that the current structure is not working well enough. A mayor-council system can give residents a directly accountable executive with a clear mandate to lead.
Brian Trumbly 1
Why are you running for city director, and what prepares you to serve? My experience serving on city boards, combined with managing a commercial construction company, provides me with a unique perspective on the infrastructure challenges our city is facing. I want to bring my experience to the table to help plan responsibly and minimize the financial demands.
2
What are Fort Smith’s three most important issues? Which is your first priority, and what would you advocate? First, the growing infrastructure debt of water and sewer projects facing the city: Ensure all levels of design, bid solicitation, contract selection, scheduling, and change orders are handled as efficiently as possible.
CANDIDATE FOR FORT SMITH CITY DIRECTOR POSITION 6
Second, changing city government from an administrator-run form to a mayor-run form of government: Promote the advantages of both forms
FAST FACTS
so our citizens can make intellectual decisions about the one they feel
HOMETOWN: Bridge Creek, Oklahoma
Smith: Promote citizens’ quality of life; ensure citizens feel heard and
YEARS IN FORT SMITH: 16
respected in public forums; ensure the public feels safe in the city; and
OCCUPATION: Owner, Petree Construction, Commercial General Contractor FAMILY: The city of Fort Smith
is best suited for Fort Smith. Third, retaining our skilled workforce in Fort
promote a strong stance on how to assist with the homeless population.
3
SOMETHING SURPRISING ABOUT YOU: My drive to give back to my community.
What would you have done instead? I believe we should be more deliberate when investing our public funds, particularly when purchasing property without a clear plan for
PREVIOUS PUBLIC OR CIVIC SERVICE: Planning & Zoning, Future Board of Ft. Smith, Peacemaker Music Festival Board. FAVORITE THING ABOUT FORT SMITH: Small-town charm, big-town opportunities.
What recent city decision or issue should have been handled differently?
its use. We need to keep our community’s future needs in mind and ensure we have complete and direct business plans before making significant investments.
4
Where should the board exercise stronger oversight, and where should it defer to the city administrator? The board should focus on the big picture such as long-term planning, infrastructure, budgeting and accountability, while working
FORT SMITH IN THREE WORDS: Bright future ahead.
closely with the department heads and the city administrator to understand their needs but allowing them to manage the day-to-day operations of their department.
5
Voters will also consider changing to a mayor-council form, giving the mayor greater executive responsibility. Do you support the change? Both have advantages and disadvantages; I strongly urge everyone to research both sides. My approach is that the mayor form of government can be run more efficiently, and counter to that is that it can also be held liable for being run inefficiently quicker.
ALSO ON YOUR BALLOT
Arkansas voters will also consider four statewide ballot issues on November 3. Individual ballots may include additional federal, state, legislative, county, judicial and local races depending on where you live. ISSUE 1 Citizens Only Voting Amendment A proposed constitutional amendment addressing citizenship requirements for voting in Arkansas elections. ISSUE 2 Right to Keep and Bear Arms Amendment A proposed constitutional amendment concerning the right to keep and bear arms in Arkansas, including for lawful hunting, recreational use and other lawful purposes. ISSUE 3 Economic Development Amendment A proposed constitutional amendment concerning the creation and financing of economic development districts within Arkansas cities, counties or cooperative areas. ISSUE 4 Water, Waste Disposal & Pollution Abatement Bonds A statewide measure concerning authorization of up to $500 million in bonds for water, waste disposal, pollution control and other related infrastructure projects.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
This is not a complete list of items that may appear on your ballot. Ballots vary by precinct. Scan the QR code to visit voterview.ar-nova.org, confirm your registration, find your polling locations, and view a sample ballot.
YOUR VOTE MATTERS
On November 3, voters across Arkansas will make decisions that reach from Washington to the state capitol and into their own communities. No matter which candidates you support or where you stand on the issues, take the time to learn what’s on your ballot and make your voice heard.
YO U R VO I CE . YO U R VOTE . MAKE IT C O U N T . NOVEMBER 3, 2026