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Council gets comfy in Fort Smith Full house of viewers at swearing-in ceremonyLyndsay Herman Northern News Services Published Monday, November 12, 2012
"I think the swearing-in ceremony went very well," said Al Dumont, town council member. "The viewing gallery was filled to capacity and each of the mayor and councillors, after the swearing-in had been done, addressed the viewers." The audience would have seen many familiar faces on the eight-person council, as only one council member, Robert McArthur, is serving his first term, along with the town's new mayor Brad Brake. "I want to work with the citizens, find out exactly what they want and then go forward with it from there," said Brake. "That's what it really is, responsiveness to citizens' concerns. That's really what I'd like to do." Establishing a youth representative on council and developing relationships with Fort Smith organizations are two of the ways Brake would like to build a better connection between town hall and the people it serves, he said. He noted that a better relationship with the Northern Lights Museum, which describes itself as an advocate for arts and culture in the town, would help town hall keep a finger on the pulse of local art and culture. "I know my intent is to try to make sure we are transparent," said Dumont. "With the exception, of course, of confidential documents, I don't think what happens in council should be kept as a confidential item." Dumont added that he is particularly eager to get started. Ron Holtorf said he would like to see the Community Sustainability Plan updated. "This is my second term on council and I found it a very good blueprint to keep the big picture (in mind)," he said. McArthur, who received the most votes in October's election, said his goal is to make Fort Smith a better place to live, see more businesses opening in town and draw more residents to the community.
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