Editor’s Note - Dec 28,2025
Welcome to this week’s River Valley Local — a practical roundup of what’s happening across our communities, from local updates and business activity to ways to get involved.
In this issue, we’re highlighting a community organization making a difference, introducing a new goal-setting series for the year ahead, and sharing several verified changes taking effect in 2026 that River Valley residents should be aware of.
Community Spotlight
🌟 Community Spotlight: Community Connections
For nearly two decades, Community Connections has been creating opportunities many families didn’t always have access to — inclusive, welcoming programs where children of all abilities can participate, grow, and belong.
Founded in 2007 by Todd and Amy Denton, Community Connections was built around a simple but powerful idea: children with special needs deserve the same chances to explore sports, arts, and social activities as their peers. What started as a local response to that need has grown into a trusted resource for families across the Fort Smith area.
Today, Community Connections offers free recreational and enrichment programs for children ages 3–18, designed to support social, emotional, and physical development in a fun, low-pressure environment. Activities change seasonally, but upcoming Spring 2026 programs in Fort Smith are expected to include Bowling, ACE Tennis, TOP Soccer, Basketball, Art, and a Young Adult Social Group.
Beyond programs, the organization relies on the wider community — families, volunteers, and partners — to keep these opportunities accessible and growing.
Features
🎯 A Practical Guide to Real Change
As the new year approaches, we’re launching a short Goal Setting series focused on lasting change — not hype or resolutions, but clear thinking, steady action, and progress that holds up over time.
Local Business
🤝 Business Networking Events to Know in 2026
Looking to grow your professional network in the new year? We rounded up several business networking opportunities across Fort Smith and Van Buren — from lunchtime meetups to weekly entrepreneur gatherings — with more being added throughout the year.
Local News
Arkansas Laws Taking Effect Jan. 1, 2026 — Quick Facts
Here’s a snapshot of several verified state and local changes taking effect in 2026 that will directly impact River Valley residents:
🏠 Property Taxes: The state homestead credit increases from $500 to $600, lowering property taxes on primary residences. At the same time, Sebastian County homeowners should expect continued increases due to last year’s historic reappraisal, with many hitting the 5% annual cap for several years.
🛒 Grocery Taxes: Arkansas is eliminating the 0.125% state grocery tax. Local city and county grocery taxes remain in place.
🚰 Fort Smith Utilities: Fort Smith residents will see a 3.5% increase in sewer rates starting January 1.
🩺 Health Coverage: New state laws require Arkansas health plans to cover additional services, including birthing centers, acquired brain injury treatment, genetic cancer testing, and bariatric surgery for qualifying adults.
🚔 Public Safety: Drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder can request a “Blue Envelope” from the DMV to assist during traffic stops. Drivers may also now voluntarily add their blood type to Arkansas IDs.
🌾 Business & Agriculture: Eligible farmers can use a new Farmer Sales Tax ID card at checkout, and state employers — including local government agencies and public schools — must use E-Verify for new hires.
We’ll continue highlighting local changes that affect River Valley residents as they take effect in the new year.
Have a thought on these new laws? Just reply to this email—we read every message.
Helpful Reads
Why Fort Smith’s Sewer Rates Are Increasing
Fort Smith is under a federal consent decree that requires long-term sewer system upgrades. Here’s what that means for residents — and why rates are going up.
What Van Buren’s 2026 Budget and Bond Proposal Would Fund
Van Buren’s proposed 2026 budget includes major investments in public safety and a new community center. This explainer breaks down what’s included and what residents should know ahead of the vote.
Events
New Year’s Eve Events Around the River Valley
Ring in the New Year with 10+ New Year’s Eve events happening across the River Valley — from live music and parties to family-friendly celebrations.
Also Happening Soon
👉 Movie Night at King Opera House, Van Buren, Featuring: Rent. Dec 29
👉 Frozen Buns Run 2026, Fort Smith, Jan 1, 2026
👉 VFW Operation Daily Battle Breakfast Van Buren, Jan, 3 2026
Food & Dining
Desi Fusion Closing Fort Smith Food Truck, New Location Coming
Desi Fusion has announced they will be closing their Fort Smith food truck location, with their final day set for January 4, 2026. The team shared that this decision comes as they prepare for the next phase of growth, including the opening of a new brick-and-mortar restaurant in Springdale on February 2, 2026.
They thanked the Fort Smith community for its support and said they look forward to welcoming customers to their new location later this winter.
Local Coverage Areas
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Thanks for reading River Valley Local. We’ll keep highlighting local updates, upcoming events, and useful context for River Valley residents as the new year begins.
Have something we should know about? An event, update, or story tip? Just reply to this email — we read every message.
River Valley Local is typically sent Sunday mornings. Occasionally, we’ll send a special mid-week update if something important affects a specific area.