Fort Smith Metro News Briefs: 911 control transfer, Dollar General sold in Van Buren

Following are news brief items from the Fort Smith metro.

911 Transfer
Fort Smith Police Chief Danny Baker recently transferred control of the department’s communications unit to the River Valley Communications Center (RVCC). Wes Milam, a former police officer, is the RVCC director.

The RVCC is a regional dispatch center for police, fire, and EMS services for all jurisdictions within Sebastian County. An Arkansas law has mandated the consolidation of 911 operation centers from 114 to 79. Part of that law required 911 service consolidation in Sebastian County, with complete consolidation expected in 2027.

Milam for more than two decades was employed by the Fort Smith Police Department (FSPD), most recently as a department captain. He was hired in June 2025 to lead the RVCC.

“This is an historic milestone for public safety communications in Fort Smith and Sebastian County,” Baker said. “Each telecommunicator is a critical and valued asset in the efficient delivery of compassionate, quality services to our citizens. They are the vital link between those in crisis and the help they need.”

Baker said he is confident the consolidated Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) be good for the county.

“Telecommunicators are the lifeline to our police officers, firefighters, and EMTs,’ he said. “As we reimagine and improve upon public safety communications through consolidation of the Fort Smith and Sebastian County PSAPs, I know they will continue to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and integrity that they have always shown. Our 911 telecommunicators will always remain part of our family here at the FSPD and they have my unwavering support, respect, and admiration.”

Dollar General Deal
Chicago-based The Boulder Group has completed the sale of a newly-constructed Dollar General property located at 6600 Alma Highway in Van Buren for $2.13 million.

The property sold shortly following the store’s opening to a California-based investor. Zach Wright and Brandon Wright, of The Boulder Group, represented the seller in the transaction, who is an Arkansas-based development company.

According to a Boulder Group press release, the store is “strategically located” near the Interstate 40 and Interstate 49 interchange, with more than 28,000 people living in a five-mile radius.

“Dollar Generals in strong secondary markets are highly sought after amongst private net lease investors,” noted Zach Wright. “Asking cap rates for these properties remain elevated near 10-year highs, providing purchasers with an enticing opportunity to acquire long-term investments with an attractive basis. However, we’re seeing well-located stores trade for premiums with cap rates beginning to compress.”

Founded in 1997, The Boulder Group has arranged the acquisition and disposition of more than $9 billion of single tenant net lease real estate transactions. Dollar General has more than 7,000 U.S. store locations.

Stroke Support
Baptist Health-Fort Smith is bringing back its stroke sSupport group, offering education and community for stroke survivors, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about stroke recovery and prevention.

Meetings will be held the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. at the Marvin Altman Fitness Center, with two exceptions to be held on the second Thursday due to holidays: January meeting, Jan. 8, and the July meeting, July 9.

According to Baptist, the January meeting will feature an interactive focus. Baptist Health employees will lead an activity designed to support cognitive skills such as hand-eye coordination using a soft, pillow-like “hot potato” game that is engaging for all ages.

The stroke support group is designed to support survivors and their families through discussions and practical education. Monthly topics will include functional mobility exercises, care after a stroke, foods for brain health, and recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke.

“Baptist Health’s stroke support group provides education, encouragement, and community for stroke survivors and their families,” said Amy Hughes, the stroke lead quality coordinator. “Each month features expert speakers and relevant topics designed to support recovery, promote awareness, and empower those impacted by stroke.”

The meetings are free and open to the public, and no RSVP is required. Participants may also attend virtually by visiting this link.