Officials: Flooding causes Orr Elementary voting site closure

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Sebastian County officials held an emergency meeting to address concerns surrounding the Orr Elementary voting location following recent flooding that has kept students off the premises.

Election Coordinator Amanda Cravey confirmed that the Orr Elementary site will not be open for Election Day voting due to safety and logistical concerns.

"No students have been allowed on the premises since the flooding occurred," Cravey said.

To accommodate voters, the county plans to set up a new voting location at St. Bartholomew Church, located just over 1.5 miles from Orr Elementary.

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According to Cravey, the decision to close Orr Elementary as a polling place was made "to ensure the safety of the equipment," with the relocation aimed at finding a secure environment for voting operations.

"We've kept four trucks on-site to be able to move the equipment quickly if we're able to, and as long as we're not putting our team in danger," Cravey explained.

The election team has also made preparations in case of severe weather.

For those who previously relied on Orr Elementary as a tornado shelter, Cravey advised the public to check for alternative shelters nearby, as the school will not be available for emergency sheltering until further notice.