FORT SMITH, Ark. — In a special meeting on the night of July 16, the Fort Smith Board of Directors voted to increase the qualification levels for Project Concern, from 165% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, ultimately allowing more people to apply for the program.
This comes as the board voted to raise water rates across the city just last week, as it was costing the city more than it was taking in.
The Project Concern program assists low-income residential water utilities customers. Residents who qualify see a 50% discount on water and sewer services, as well as a 25% discount on solid waste services.
"We understand that these are difficult times, especially with the inflation that's occurred recently," said Carl Geffken, City Administrator for Fort Smith. "Some are having to choose between paying the utility bill and putting food on their table."
Around 770 people currently utilize the program, but directors say there should be more people using the resource, as the poverty level is around 19% in the city.
"In Fort Smith, our poverty rate has been decreasing, but we still have a good sized population that in poverty," said Geffken.
"There are 18,000 people that technically have the opportunity to qualify," said Russell Bragg, a Fort Smith resident who's been heavily involved in the water rate increase conversation. "How do we help the citizens that could really benefit from this program? How do we help them get the applications in?"
"Director Andre Good had a great point. We have to do it by neighbors helping neighbors. You have to watch out for your neighbors. If you know somebody that needs the help, needs the financial assistance, reach out to them" said Bragg.
Bragg knew with the increase, some in the community would need some help, so he brought the idea of changing the requirements to Director Lavon Morton. He wants to look at this as a compromise by utilizing the money from the increase for the city, as well as providing aid to those who need it.
The December 2023 Project Concern monthly report showed 678 current active participants with an average savings of $36.05 per participant per bill cycle.
Residents can submit their applications by mail, email, or in person at the Water Utilities Department.
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