The City of Fort Smith operates with the support of its many different departments. Learn about them and the services they provide below.
City Administration
The City Administration oversees the daily operations of Fort Smith and provides support to the Board of Directors to ensure effective city governance.
The Building Services Department ensures that construction and development in Fort Smith meet safety and code standards, protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the community.
The Citizen Services Department manages utility accounts, billing, and customer service operations, maintains City facilities, and leads energy-efficiency projects across City-owned properties to support residents and improve city operations.
The Communications Department manages public information, media relations, and community outreach, keeping residents informed and engaged with City initiatives and events.
The Community Development Department delivers programs and services that support low- and moderate-income residents, helping improve quality of life throughout Fort Smith.
The District Court of Sebastian County, Fort Smith Division, provides prompt and accessible services to ensure fair resolution of criminal, traffic, civil, and other court matters for residents.
The Engineering Department designs and inspects Fort Smith’s streets, sidewalks, and drainage systems to support safe and efficient city infrastructure.
The Finance Department manages city funds and oversees purchasing, ensuring financial accountability and supporting effective operations across Fort Smith government.
The Fire Department protects the community through fire suppression, prevention, education, and investigation services, helping keep residents and property safe.
The Human Resources Department manages personnel applications, employee benefits, and civil service policies, while also providing training and safety programs to support the city’s workforce and ensure effective operations.
The Information Technology Department implements technology solutions that improve city services and make operations more efficient for residents and staff.
The Internal Audit Department provides independent analysis and recommendations to the City’s leadership, ensuring internal controls and management practices are effective, accountable, and transparent.
The Neighborhood Services Department supports and enhances Fort Smith neighborhoods through code enforcement, community engagement, and programs that improve quality of life
The Parks & Recreation Department maintains Fort Smith’s parks, trails, and recreational facilities, providing safe and accessible spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The Planning & Zoning Department manages land-use regulations and provides professional guidance on development, advising city leaders, commissions, and committees while helping shape Fort Smith’s growth and community planning.
Public Safety Communications (River Valley Communications Center)
The Public Safety Communications Department, also known as the River Valley Communications Center (RVCC), operates the City’s emergency dispatch systems, ensuring residents have timely access to 911 and other critical public safety services.
The Public Works Department maintains and repairs Fort Smith’s streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, traffic signals, street signage, and water and sewer lines, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient city services for residents and visitors.
The Purchasing Division, a program within the Finance Department, manages the procurement of goods, materials, and services in a timely and cost-effective manner, supporting city operations and promoting accountability.
The Solid Waste Services Department provides safe, efficient, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective waste collection and disposal services to the community.
The Tourism Department highlights Fort Smith’s museums, historic landmarks, parks, and attractions, inspiring residents and visitors to explore and enjoy all the city has to offer.
The Transit Department provides safe, efficient, affordable, and accessible public transportation, helping residents and visitors get around the city with ease.
The Water Resources Department manages Fort Smith’s water and wastewater infrastructure, including treatment plants, lift stations, storage tanks, transmission facilities, and watershed operations. The department also oversees water supply contracts for communities throughout the River Valley and ensures environmental compliance and long-term planning to provide reliable, sustainable services for residents and businesses.
