SUMMARY: Fort Smith city directors are considering a 3.5% sewer rate increase starting in June, set to continue annually for five years. This increase, amounting to a few extra dollars per month for average users, is necessary to fund federally mandated sewer repairs estimated at nearly $645 million. Local dog groomers Kylie Rowe and Adam Robertson express concern over rising utility costs, highlighting the compounding nature of such increases. The city is requesting a ten-year extension from the EPA to manage costs without heavily impacting ratepayers. A public input session starts at 6 PM, followed by the city directors meeting.

The rate would go up by a few dollars a month to pay for required fixes and upgrades.

Subscribe to 40/29 on YouTube now for more: http://bit.ly/PTElbK

Get more Northwest Arkansas news: http://www.4029tv.com
Like us: http://facebook.com/4029news
Follow us: http://twitter.com/4029news
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4029news/

Source

SUMMARY: Flu season is affecting local schools, causing illnesses and cancellations. Public Health experts highlight a rise in respiratory illnesses, including flu and RSV, with Little Rock School District prioritizing the safety of students and staff. Regular deep cleaning is performed, but some schools, like those in Camden, had to close due to outbreaks. Over a hundred students and teachers at Mountain View Elementary reported sickness last week. Health officials emphasize the importance of families in keeping children healthy by ensuring adequate sleep, nutrition, hygiene, and encouraging annual flu vaccinations. School absenteeism has increased to nearly 10%.

According to the Arkansas Department of Health, school absentee levels are rising, and some districts have temporarily closed to slow the spread of illness.

https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/arkansas-schools-monitoring-uptick-illness/91-7981d257-ce62-4eff-ad61-6fafdfd1f287

Source

SUMMARY: The potential tariffs proposed by President Trump could significantly impact consumers in Arkansas, leading to higher prices on goods like groceries and gas. This round of tariffs is unique as it’s aimed at entire nations rather than specific commodities. UA Little Rock Chief Economist Michael Paco notes that the average American household might face an increase of over $2,600 annually due to these tariffs. The implications extend beyond consumers, potentially causing lower prices for foreign producers, job losses, and overall economic strain. Projections suggest a billion-dollar annual increase in tariffs over the next decade, affecting both government revenues and consumer resources.

Experts in Arkansas are giving advice on what people should expect as a result of the new tariff policy changes.

https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/how-trump-tariff-policy-impact-arkansas/91-5cb15e67-836c-4476-9087-71b667cb59a2

Source