FORT SMITH, Ark. — Fort Smith officials say a 12-year, $200 million plan will help the city comply with the federal Clean Water Act.
To get there, residents will see their water and sewer fees double in five years.
A proposed consent decree with two federal agencies would see the city eliminate sewer overflows and discharges into the Arkansas River during heavy rains.
The Southwest Times Record newspaper reported Tuesday that the proposed consent decree has been in the works for eight years and involves the city, the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice. The federal Clean Water Act was passed in 1972.
City Administrator Ray Gosack said the overflows violate the act. He said water and sewer bills would double by 2019.
Read Wednesday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.