FCRA officials talk water project, Elvis event

The Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority (FCRA) announced it will undertake a $524,000 water line construction project along Taylor Avenue and Custer Boulevard. Congressional funds were appropriated in 2010, and a grant application was submitted in March 2011.

Notice of approval for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant was received last week, according to FCRA Executive Director Ivy Owen. Under the stipulations of the grant, the FCRA will show responsibility for 45% ($238,000) with the rest covered by the EPA.

The FCRA will open the project for bidding “in about three weeks,” Owen said.

Also on Thursday, the FCRA board voted to amend its services agreements among itself, the City of Fort Smith, and Sebastian County related to MARS and UMAREX Properties.

“When FCRA donated land for these developments, it was agreed that we would be compensated for services through monies from both the real and personal property taxes generated by the properties,” Owen explained.

“However, when the agreements were executed, the personal property taxes were inadvertently omitted,” he added.

The amendments, which received unanimous approval, will add personal property taxes effective with the 2011 tax year. The Sebastian County Quorum Court previously approved the amendment, and the City of Fort Smith is expected to at its March 20 board meeting.

Regarding the Deer Trails Golf Course that FCRA assumed control of in January 2012, the board reported the operation has cost approximately $178,000 in renovations and operating expenses with an income of $33,710 since the first of the year.

Finally, Chaffee Crossing officials announced they were ready to get “all shook up” for the fourth annual Elvis Haircut Celebration. The event commemorates Elvis Presley’s historic haircut, which took place at Fort Chaffee in March 1958 after Presley was inducted into the U.S. Army.

At the event, which will take place March 24 on the 54th anniversary of Presley’s induction, a drawing will take place among pre-registered participants for a one-night stay at the Heartbreak Hotel in Memphis. The winner will also receive two tickets to Graceland, Presley’s former home and one of Memphis’ most well-known attractions.

Chaffee Crossing will also show some of Presley’s films at its Enchanted Wedding Chapel during the event. Admission is free.