Paddle boats coming to Carol Ann Cross Park

Beginning May 1, the small lake at Carol Ann Cross Park in Fort Smith will be home to a fleet of five pedal-boats available for rental from Noah Steffey, owner of Floating Rock.

The private business venture at the public park was approved by a unanimous vote Tuesday night (Mar. 17) by the Fort Smith Board of Directors.

Operating between May 1 and Oct. 31, Steffey estimates the venture will generate between $20,000 and $27,250 in the six-month period, with 15% of the gross revenue going to the city. Steffey plans to charge $10 for 30-minute rental and $15 for one hour.

Steffey’s proposal was previously rejected, with city officials concerned about his past criminal history. However, Steffey worked several months to convince city officials his business plan was solid and his previous mistakes were behind him.

City Directors Cole Goodman and Kevin Settle briefly grilled Steffey about having safety measures and emergency plans, with Steffey responding that the business would comply with all Arkansas water safety rules and regs.

After the board approved the request, Settle reminded Steffey that his business is operating in a city park and that he should be mindful to represent the city well.

COMMISSION, BOARD APPOINTMENTS
• After meeting in executive session, the board reported on several notable board and commission appointments.

• In somewhat of a surprise, the board approved the reappointment of Robert Cooper to the Civil Service Commission, but rejected the reappointment of Charles Ledbetter. Instead, the board appointed Patrick Jacobs to the Commission.

• Jan Nordin was appointed to the Fort Smith Regional Airport Commission.

• Storm Nolan, Pam Weber and Brandon Woodrome were appointed to the Fort Smith Planning Commission.

• Marvin Matlock was reappointed to the Electric Code Appeals Board.

• The board rejected the only applicant, Barbara Meadows, for the Fort Smith Housing Authority. Meadows term on the Authority expired Mar. 3.