Fort Smith Times Record After a thorough discussion on the price tag and location of the facility, the Fort Smith Board of Directors voted 6-1 to lease the Blue Lion at UAFS as a meeting space. The decision, which was solely opposed by At-Large Director Neal Martin, has locked the city into the remaining 73 months in University of Arkansas-Fort Smith's 15-year contract. The city will pay $5,408 monthly through April 2027, after which they have the option to purchase the building from the Central Business Improvement District for $10. City officials expect to use the 18,000-square-foot building at 101 N. Second St. for Board of Directors meetings and commission meetings as well as possible office space for the Fort Smith Advertising and Promotion Commission employees and a venue to be rented for functions. The board could begin meeting there as soon as the lecture platform is set up.