Consent Decree WorkThe city of Fort Smith recently announced completion of another consent decree project that improves the city’s sewer system. Completion date: April 21, 2026Project cost: $8,812,088.94Funding for this project is available through the 0.625% sales tax dedicated to consent decree projects. Teacher RecognitionMelissa Purifoy, a sixth-grade math and science teacher at the Health Sciences Academy at Darby Middle School, has been named one of the Top 5 Finalists for the 2027 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. The Arkansas Teacher of the Year program recognizes exceptional teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership within their schools and communities, and a lasting impact on student achievement. Nurses from Baptist Health-Fort Smith recognized were Drayven Brock, RN, BSN, Trisha Huggins, RN, ADN, William Tabarez, RN, BSN, and Madison Williamson, RN, BSN.