The City of Fort Smith serves nearly 90,000 residents and 11,000 businesses within its incorporated boundaries. The municipality employs over 1,000 staff and operates under a strong “city administrator form of government.” The city administrator oversees a budget of approximately $300 million, exercises authority over all city operations, and reports to the City’s legislative body, the Board of Directors. The Fort Smith Mayor officiates over City-related ceremonies and presides over board meetings. Located along the Arkansas River, the Fort Smith community spans just over 68 square miles adjacent to the Oklahoma state line. It offers a wealth of diversity in both its landscape and community. Nearly 300,000 people who live in the surrounding region commute to Fort Smith for employment, entertainment, or education. Fort Smith ranks as the third-largest community in Arkansas and one of the oldest cities in the state. The U.S military founded Fort Smith in 1817, and the City’s incorporation occurred on Christmas Eve, 1842.