Public Meetings - Bentonville, Arkansas

The Bentonville Planning Commission met on November 3, 2026, at City Hall, beginning with a Tech Review at 4:30 PM followed by the regular business meeting at 5:00 PM. The agenda included four waiver requests, a large-scale development phasing amendment, a rezoning public hearing, and continued discussion on proposed code amendments. Commissioners approved several consent items and waivers, tabled a controversial off-site improvements waiver for The Thickets development pending further negotiations, and approved the bulk of the code amendments after removing a contested section on rezoning standards. Consent Calendar - Utility Easement Vacation (VAC26-0045): 609 SE Yale Street. - Lot Split (LS26-0010): Lot 13, Block F, Orchard Addition, 607 SE C Street. Public Comments & Testimony - Graham Rezoning (RZ26-0050): The property owner's architect appeared to speak in support of rezoning 608 NW B Street from R-1 to T3.1, arguing the change would better align the property with Traditional Neighborhood place type standards and allow for reduced front yard setbacks appropriate for its corner lot. - Code Amendments: No members of the public came forward to offer testimony during the advertised public hearing. Discussion Items - 4-Wheel Concepts Garage Door Waiver (WAV26-0017): The applicant sought a waiver to orient garage doors toward SE Moberly Lane due to site constraints from a detention basin. Staff and commissioners discussed enhancing the landscaping screen and provided guidance to the applicant to incorporate unique architectural features (e.g., murals) on the building's highly visible east side along I-49. - Walmart Associate Store Loading Dock Waiver (WAV26-0021): A waiver was requested to permit loading docks and bay doors at the repurposed site of a former skating rink. The applicant noted the closest dock is over 450 feet from the right-of-way and proposed enhanced screening. - Gilmore Fence Setback Waiver (WAV26-0020): The property owner at 337 NW A Street requested a reduced fence setback (2 feet from the back of the sidewalk rather than the standard 5 feet from the right-of-way) to manage foot traffic from the nearby square. The design was reviewed and generally supported. - J Street Phasing Plan Amendment (LSD24-0012): An amendment to increase the number of development phases from 10 to 28 for a 618-unit multifamily project was presented. The amendment allows each building to receive its own Certificate of Occupancy independently. - The Thickets Off-site Improvements Waiver (WAV26-0016): This became the central debate of the evening. The applicant requested a waiver of off-site infrastructure improvements (specifically a traffic signal at the Windmill/Regional Airport intersection) citing a "soft no" from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) based on curve geometry and proximity to an existing light. - Applicant Position: Representatives from Crafton Tull and Kutak Rock argued that the need for the signal is a pre-existing condition created by prior developments, not solely their project. They noted a lack of viable alternatives, as no other intersection in the traffic study warranted a signal. - Staff Position: City Traffic Engineer Jared Brightwell clarified ARDOT's "no" was informal. He stated the signal is currently warranted and recommended that a formal submission be made to ARDOT to get a definitive answer. He suggested exploring a proportionate share fee-in-lieu. - Commissioner Concerns: Commissioners expressed unease with approving a blanket waiver without a solution. They were sympathetic to the applicant's reluctance to pay for 100% engineering design for a project with a predicted rejection. A motion to table the item for further negotiations between staff, the applicant, and legal counsel on a proportionate share solution carried unanimously. - Code Amendments: Commissioners removed Section 50-709(e)(1) from the proposed amendments. The section, dealing with standard review criteria for rezonings, was deemed to require broader discussion to clarify definitions of "within one transect degree" and prevent unintended consequences. The remaining code amendment package was advanced. Key Outcomes - Approvals: - WAV26-0017 (4-Wheel Concepts): Approved 6-0. - WAV26-0021 (Walmart): Approved 6-0. - WAV26-0020 (Gilmore Fence): Approved 6-0. - LSD24-0012 (J Street Amendment): Approved 6-0. - Code Amendments (excluding 50-709(e)(1)): Approved 6-0. - Tabled: - WAV26-0016 (The Thickets Waiver): Tabled to allow staff and applicant to negotiate a proportionate share payment for a future traffic signal. - RZ26-0050 (Graham Rezoning): The public hearing was conducted as advertised, but action was tabled due to an incorrect date on the mailed public hearing notices. The item will be reheard with proper notice at the next meeting. - Next Steps: - The Commission will hold a Joint Work Session with the City Council the following Friday to discuss the work program and the entwined rezone standards. - Commissioner Bennett requested an agenda item discussing lessons learned from a recent lawsuit involving a student housing project where a Council denial was overturned.

The City of Bentonville held a combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting at 6:00 PM on October 27, 2026, at Bentonville City Hall. The Committee of the Whole was informational; no votes or public comments were taken. The Council then convened, approved the October 13, 2026 meeting minutes, suspended the rule requiring ordinances to be read on three separate days, and proceeded with the agenda. New Business Item 2 was pulled from the agenda. Committee of the Whole - Council received an update from Chief Bertrand on noise ordinance and decibel readings. There was discussion about a possible future ordinance amendment to change definitions such as outdoor amplification, but the recommendation was to wait until legal and enforcement questions and proper decibel readings were vetted so a single comprehensive proposal could be brought forward. - No formal actions were taken during the Committee of the Whole. Proclamation - Mayor Stephanie Orman read a proclamation declaring October 4-10, 2026 as Fire Prevention Week in Bentonville, with the 2026 theme Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower. The proclamation cited 343,000 residential building fires in 2023, 3,920 civilian fire deaths in the home, 9,330 civilian injuries, billions of dollars in property damage, and a U.S. fire department response to a fire every 23 seconds. It urged residents to practice home fire escape plans. - Fire department representatives noted they reached about 6,200 students through 15 schools for fire safety education. The Mayor noted the proclamation dates were slightly past because this was the first available meeting. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by one unanimous voice vote. It included, among the items: - Resolutions setting public hearings for November 10, 2026, on utility easement vacations VAC26-0044 and VAC26-0045. - Budget adjustments for Fire Department personnel and benefits, impact fees for training center improvements at 910 SE 14th Street, animal shelter repairs, and acceptance of an anonymous donation of $1,122,094.47, allocated $400,000 to the Library and $722,094.47 to Animal Services. - Adoption of new and revised Bentonville Police Department policies. - Airport Advisory Board appointment of Trevor Aldridge and reappointments of Daniel Hughes and Hayes Wade. - Airport-related resolutions, including a hangar lease assignment to Cornerstone Advisory Properties LLC; Garver Work Order No. 9 for airport perimeter fence Phase I at $36,500; awards to Anchor Roofing for Eastside Hangar Development Phase I and Phase II; and an agreement with Texas EcoPavers for the West Turf Apron at $153,503. - Public works and facility contracts, including Volkert Amendment 2 for the Tiger Boulevard Overpass at $15,490 as read, Steep Creek, LLC for NW Tiger Blvd/NW G Street stormwater improvements at $1,685,727.86, a 2027 Kenworth T480V dump truck with upfit at $388,925.43, and a Walton Donor-Advised Fund grant of $436,217 for tree planting, installation, and watering. - Awards and leases, including the Elm Tree Sidepath award to J&L Concrete and Excavation, Inc.; a Morning Star Schoolhouse ground lease with Oak Landing Partners, LLC; Gateway Park Change Order 1 with Crossland Construction at $273,760; a lease of 221 South Main Street with Flintco; and a Memorandum of Understanding with Northwest Arkansas Toys for Tots. - Utility Board resolutions, previously approved 5-0 by the Utility Board, covering a $162,800 budget reallocation, final one-year extensions of water service line repair agreements with Calcon, Inc. and Mo-Ark Utilities, South Basin sewer easement and real estate acquisitions, and Black & Veatch Amendment No. 2 for South Basin Phase 1 design services at $99,295. Public Comments & Testimony - The public comment period included one speaker, a representative of the Giving Machine, who invited the Council to the November 19, 2026 launch at 11 a.m. and provided statistics from the prior year: more than 14,000 visitors and top purchased items including 780 hearty meals, 773 pairs of chickens, 600 kids' meals for school, 500 clean-water purchases, 476 warm blankets, and 450 bicycles. She stated this would be the Giving Machine's third year in downtown Bentonville. Local beneficiaries named included Mercy Health Foundation, American Red Cross, River Valley Regional Food Bank, Hope Campus, the Baptist Food Pantry, and Lifting Hands International. Discussion Items - Traffic signal coordination contract (Item 21): Council reviewed the resolution and clarified that the agenda form incorrectly referenced option two while the resolution reflected option one. The contract with ITERIS for $179,950 was then considered separately. - School traffic and safety: Council discussed congestion and pedestrian safety around schools, including school-zone beacons and possible traffic and signage studies. Staff suggested using one school as a case study and noted ongoing annual coordination with schools. A councilmember also raised the idea of a pedestrian bridge from the high school to the stadium on J Street, acknowledging it would be a large CIP project. - 14th Street and A reopening: A councilmember asked about the road closure connected to a development at 14th Street and A. Staff said the developer had been asked to expedite the timeline after sewer upsizing and inspection corrections required rework, and that coordination with affected business owners was ongoing. Planning & Zoning - RZ26-0042 (501 N Main Street): Approved unanimously, changing zoning from R-1, Suburban Single-Family to T3.1, Neighborhood Edge. - RZ26-0046 (215 SW E Street): Approved unanimously, changing zoning from R-1 to T3.2, Neighborhood Transition. Staff confirmed the maximum development on the lot would be two dwelling units per building. - RZ26-0025 (1710 SW 14th Street): Approved unanimously, changing zoning from R-1 and T4.2 to T5.1, Town Center Low. - RZ26-0049 (SW Windmill Road): Approved unanimously after discussion. The large-scale rezoning to T3.1, T3.2, T4.1, T4.2, and T5.1 was explained as following the future land use map, including a future Windmill Road arterial corridor and a code requirement for at least three zoning districts on projects over 40 acres. Staff said the T5.1 and T4.2 areas are intended to accommodate future neighborhood-scale services and activated frontages. Council discussion noted the lack of infrastructure and services in southwest Bentonville. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent calendar, meeting minutes, and rule suspension. - Approved Item 18, a one-time relocation payment of $53,200 to Performance Cars and Trucks in the Rainbow Curve Improvement condemnation process, with one councilmember recusing. - Approved Item 21, the $179,950 ITERIS traffic signal coordination contract, unanimously. - Approved Item 25, waiving competitive bidding and authorizing an agreement with Overton Custom Construction for the Morning Star Schoolhouse expanded parking lot at $98,560, unanimously. - Approved all four rezoning ordinances unanimously. - New Business Item 2, described as the Greenway ordinance, was pulled from the agenda and is expected to return in two weeks after language review. - Agenda and transcript discrepancy noted: the Elm Tree Sidepath bid was listed on the agenda as $2,676,440.44 but was read aloud as $2,667,440.44, including the 10% contingency.

The Bentonville Planning Commission met on October 20, 2026, beginning with a technical review at 4:30 PM followed by the regular meeting at 5:00 PM. The commission considered sidewalk waivers, large-scale developments, temporary use permits, rezoning requests, code amendments, and a historical fee-in-lieu review. All consent items were approved unanimously. After public testimony and deliberation, the commission approved most items, denied one sidewalk waiver, and tabled the code amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved the October 6, 2026 meeting minutes. - Approved the consent agenda including: - Utility Easement Vacation (VAC26-0044) at NW 9th between Walton and J St. - Lot Split for Lots 7-9 of Harbin Pointe Addition (LS26-0013) on SW Regional Airport Blvd. - Final Plat for Morningstar Subdivision Phase 1 (FP26-0002) west of Morning Star Rd. - AWSOM Whole Health Campus Public Utilities Package (LSD26-0021) at 3401 Blueberry Ln. - Trillium Basecamp Temporary Use Permit (TUP26-0006) for a construction office at 11010 Murdock Rd, with conditions: hours 8 AM–5 PM, paved parking, no construction equipment stored or routed through property. - The HUB Bike Lounge Halloween Temporary Use Permit (TUP26-0007) with amplified music allowed until 12:30 AM (one-hour extension) and a condition to notify neighbors within 200 ft. Public Comments & Testimony - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (501 N Main St): Residents expressed support for the amended T3.1 zoning and asked the commission to prioritize neighborhood character and compatibility. Speakers noted the historic nature of North Main Street and urged careful evaluation of density impacts. One resident suggested a temporary moratorium on downtown density increases. - Whitpin Properties Rezoning (SW Windmill Rd): Neighbors raised concerns about flooding, drainage, well and septic contamination, traffic on gravel roads, and wildlife impacts. They requested denial or additional safeguards. Several noted existing flooding on Windmill and Scoggins Roads. - Other Public Hearings: No public comments were received for the Tovey-McCool Trust rezoning, the 17202 Bulverde Rd rezoning, the code amendments, or the fee in lieu review. Sidewalk Waivers - Lambert Sidewalk Waiver (1109 NW Briarwood Ln): The applicant argued that topography challenges are similar to a neighboring lot that received a waiver. Staff recommended denial, citing that sidewalk installation is feasible. After discussion, the commission voted 7-0 to approve the waiver with a fee-in-lieu payment. - Magnolia Lane LLC Sidewalk Waivers (307 & 309 NE 2nd St): The applicant requested relief from constructing the required 12-foot sidewalk on a downtown collector, advocating for continuity with the existing 5-foot sidewalk. Staff recommended denial. The commission denied both waivers 7-0, preferring to build the full width for future connectivity. Large Scale Development - Bentonville Dental Office (Regional Airport Blvd): A 4,200 sq ft, 12-examination-room dental office on 0.9 acres. The applicant agreed to a condition requiring 24-gauge minimum metal panels. Approved 7-0. Advertised Public Hearings - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0042): Rezone from R-1 to T3.1 (amended from T4.1). Approved 7-0. - Tovey-McCool Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0046): Rezone from R-1 to T3.2. Approved 7-0. - 17202 Bulverde Rd San Antonio LLC Rezoning (RZ26-0025): Rezone from R-1/T4.2 to T5.1 on approximately 7.3 acres. Approved 7-0. - Whitpin Properties LLC Rezoning (RZ26-0049): Rezone from T2.1 to T3.1, T3.2, T4.1, T4.2, and T5.1 on a tract over 40 acres, required by the new development code's Table 3.1. Staff and the applicant noted that future plat reviews will address drainage, off-site improvements, and roadway standards. Approved 7-0. - Code Amendments: Discussion focused on reintroducing minimum parking standards for commercial uses in T5/T6 zones, clarifying parking reductions for proximity to the Razorback Greenway and premium transit stops, and evaluating transitions from special purpose districts. The commission voted to table the amendments to the next meeting. Fee in Lieu Review (Old Business) - The commission held a public hearing and approved staff's recommendations regarding historical fee-in-lieu collections. Of the total funds, 97% are to be held in escrow for imminent or completed projects or repurposed with property owner consent (e.g., for the Greenhouse Road project and NW 3rd Street sidewalk project); 3% are to be refunded to property owners. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - All consent items (including two temporary use permits moved from new business) approved unanimously. - Lambert Sidewalk Waiver: approved with fee in lieu (7-0). - Magnolia Lane Sidewalk Waivers: denied (7-0). - Bentonville Dental Office LSD: approved (7-0). - Palmer Rezoning to T3.1: approved (7-0). - Tovey-McCool Rezoning to T3.2: approved (7-0). - 17202 Bulverde Rezoning to T5.1: approved (7-0). - Whitpin Properties Rezoning: approved (7-0). - Code Amendments: tabled to next meeting. - Fee in Lieu Review: staff recommendations approved (7-0).

The combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting was held on October 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Bentonville City Hall. The Committee of the Whole portion focused on information sharing and discussion, with no votes taken. The City Council session followed, where public comment was heard and official actions were taken, including approval of a consent agenda and two rezoning ordinances. Key presentations included an update on the Morning Star School and Park project, discussions on infrastructure and development, and recognition of community achievements. Committee of the Whole - Morning Star School and Park Opportunity – David from Parks and Recreation provided an update on the restoration of the historic Morning Star Schoolhouse, donated by the Walton Family Foundation. The building is being renovated and will include a kitchen, ADA restrooms, and a covered porch. The surrounding 18 acres will become a future passive park. The Walton Family Foundation offered to build out the full parking lot now at a cost of approximately $98,560 via a bid waiver, estimated to save the city $58,000 in future construction and design costs. The funds would come from interest earned on grant money. Council members expressed support for the opportunity, and staff indicated the bid waiver would be brought back for a future vote. Public Comments & Testimony - On Rezoning 405 NW 5th Street (RZ26-0047): Several residents spoke in opposition. Roland Smith (406 NW C St) cited narrow streets (19 ft wide vs. standard 28 ft), lack of stormwater drainage, and safety concerns for children walking to nearby schools. Marie Smith (406 NW C St) requested site-specific studies on traffic, parking, drainage, and emergency access before approval. Sherry Atkins (409 NW C St) reported drainage issues and property damage she attributes to a nearby fourplex development. Amy Davidson (403 NW C St) and Janna Summer (338 NW 5th St) echoed concerns about parking, street width, and drainage, questioning whether the area can handle additional density. One resident (501 NW A St) spoke in favor, noting the need for diverse housing types to attract young families and adult children to downtown. Mark Haney, the developer, argued that the rezoning is about land use and that parking, drainage, and other issues are addressed at later stages of development; he noted he exceeds parking requirements in his projects. - On Non-Agenda Items: At the end of the meeting, Mark Haney spoke as a member of the public, thanking the council for approving the earlier rezoning but expressing concern about unpredictability in the process. He urged council to follow the adopted community plan consistently. Discussion Items - Consent Agenda Discussion: Before the City Council meeting, council members asked questions on several items: Item 7 (STEM University Master Development Agreement) – clarified that future development will be judged against the campus development plan approved by the Planning Commission. Item 26-29 (property acquisitions) – staff explained the scope of improvements for Walton Boulevard & West Central Avenue and SW Regional Airport Blvd & SW I Street, including added turn lanes. Item 9 (artwork “Old Tree”) – a question about the city’s obligation regarding commercial photography rights; staff noted it is a standard agreement. Item 13 (Library placemaking grant) – Hattie from the library explained the $100,000 Project for Public Spaces grant will fund improvements to the back gathering lawn, with community engagement and design support. - Rezoning – RZ26-0045 (Orband – T5.2 to T4.2): Planning Commission had recommended approval 7-0. No public comment. Council approved unanimously (8-0). - Rezoning – RZ26-0047 (Lucatoni/Mark Haney – R-1 to T4.1): Planning Commission recommended approval 5-2. After extensive discussion about parking, traffic, drainage, and trash service concerns in the neighborhood, council voted 5-2 to approve (Rover, Burkhart, Sanchez, Patterson, Eva in favor; Huck and Acre opposed). Council members acknowledged the need for broader solutions to stormwater, parking, and waste management in downtown areas, and the mayor committed to forming a working group to address these issues. - Other Business & Announcements: - Airport Board reported record jet fuel sales (66,000 gallons of Jet A in September), a Halloween trunk-or-treat event, and the appointment of Trevor Aldridge to the board. - Traffic Safety & Signage approved the Cold Front Race (Feb 14, 2027) and tabled several other requests for traffic studies. - A joint work session with Planning Commission is scheduled for October 13 (lunch) and the city budget meetings will be held on a Monday evening and Tuesday evening. - The City Expo & Community Volunteer Fair will be held next week; a shred/electronics recycling event had 300 residents attend. - Research is underway on a legally defensible low-frequency noise ordinance to address complaints about bass from vehicles. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved Unanimously – All 29 New Business resolutions (items 6-29) and all 5 Utility Board resolutions were approved by a single vote (8-0). Key actions include: - Agreement with Halff Associates ($65,705) for due diligence studies. - Master Development Agreement with STEM LANDS, LLC for the STEM U Campus. - Approval of artwork installations (“Old Tree” and Razorback Greenway Quilt). - Lease with 211 Café for library café services. - Acceptance of $23,667 in state aid and a $100,000 Community Placemaking grant for the library. - Certification of the 2026 property tax levy. - Purchase of Stryker powercots and loading systems ($166,883.48) and contract for medical physicals ($93,417). - Grant agreement with ARDOT for Eagle Way Tunnel & Trail ($210,000 with 20% city match). - Change orders for Parks Maintenance Building (reduction of $55,474.43), McKissic Creek projects ($30,000 and $41,820), Razorback Greenway Trail ($7,000), and sidewalk ramp design ($2,000). - Insurance settlement ($24,652.73) for infrastructure damage. - Bid award for two sign trucks ($280,495.70) and for Walton Boulevard & West Central Avenue improvements ($3,958,727.30). - Authorizations to acquire properties for Greenhouse Road, Tiger Boulevard Overpass, and SW Regional Airport Blvd/SW I Street projects. - Accepted Walton Family Foundation grant ($6,683,590) for “I” Street Water Supply Transmission Main. - Declared various utility items surplus for auction. - Awarded bid for Townbranch Interceptor construction ($12,313,347.90) and approved construction administration amendments ($1,042,941 and $727,860). - Rezoning RZ26-0045 (3006 SE J St, T5.2 to T4.2) – Approved 8-0. - Rezoning RZ26-0047 (405 NW 5th St, R-1 to T4.1) – Approved 5-2. - Directive: Mayor to form a working group to address downtown parking, drainage, and trash collection issues in coordination with city departments and stakeholders.

The Bentonville Planning Commission held its regular meeting on October 6, 2026, starting with a tech review at 4:30 PM and the public hearing at 5:00 PM. The meeting included the approval of minutes, consent agenda items, two public hearings on rezoning requests, a discussion on the STEM University Master Development Agreement (MDA), and a continued conversation on code amendments. Several large-scale development items were moved from the new business to the consent agenda during the tech review. Consent Calendar - Approved with modifications: Items 1-5 under New Business (Parc Flex Building 1, Bentenwoods Subdivision Phasing Plan Amendment, STEM Campus Public Improvements, AWSOM Whole Health Campus Zone 1, and AWSOM Whole Health Campus McCollum Rd Package) were moved to the consent agenda during the tech review and approved unanimously. The consent agenda also included a number of property line adjustments, lot splits, final plats, and large-scale developments (J-Street Mixed Use, Ozark Ready Mix, Bentonville RV Resort, Harmony Hills Preliminary Plat Extension). Item 12 (STEM University MDA) was removed from the consent agenda to be discussed later. Public Comments & Testimony - Lucatoni, LLC / Mark Haney Rezoning (405 NW 5th St): Multiple residents spoke in opposition to the rezoning. Marie Smith (406 NW C St) expressed concerns about increased traffic, parking problems, safety for children walking to school, stormwater drainage, and the cumulative impact of recent nearby developments. Janice Summer (338 NW) echoed concerns and requested a delay until the impacts of a recently completed 12-unit development could be assessed. Eric (address not given) questioned code adherence in recent projects and asked for better enforcement. Jeannie Davidson (address not given) noted the contrast between the well-planned Southeast quadrant and the current state of Fifth Street and C Street, citing narrow roads, parking issues, and storm damage, and asked for a parking study before approval. - Orband Rezoning (3006 SE J St): No public testimony was given. Discussion Items - Tech Review and Consent Agenda Adjustments: Commissioner Kerr requested that items 8, 9, 10, and 12 be removed from the consent agenda. After discussion, items 8-11 (J-Street Mixed Use, Ozark Ready Mix, Bentonville RV Resort, Harmony Hills Extension) were kept on consent, while item 12 (STEM University MDA) was moved to the end of the agenda. Items 1-5 under New Business were moved to the consent agenda. Staff and applicants answered questions on specific projects, including traffic impacts, material standards for Ozark Ready Mix, and landscaping for Bentonville RV Resort. - Orband Rezoning (RZ26-0045, 3006 SE J St): This was a request to downzone from R-1 (Suburban Single-Family) to T4.2 (Neighborhood Node) within the Regional Center Place Type. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony. The commission approved the rezoning unanimously (6-0). - Lucatoni, LLC / Mark Haney Rezoning (RZ26-0047, 405 NW 5th St): The request was to rezone from R-1 to T4.1 (Neighborhood General) within the Urban Neighborhood Place Type. Staff explained the differences between T4.2 and T4.1 (height, setbacks, units per building). Commissioners debated whether to approve, with concerns about traffic, parking, stormwater, and precedent vs. the future land use map. Commissioner Davis voted no, citing unresolved neighborhood impacts, and the motion passed 5-1. - STEM University Master Development Agreement (MDA): The MDA was presented for commission information only, as it ultimately goes to city council. The agreement covers maintenance of private roadways (D, E, C, F streets), campus development plan as the controlling framework, and provisions for inspections and certificates of occupancy. Commissioners noted that individual large-scale developments aligned with the campus plan could be approved administratively, while significant changes would require commission review. No formal vote was taken. - Code Amendments: Staff presented several proposed amendments, including revisions to drive-through facility regulations (requiring screening when between building and street), clarifying “reasonable access” for parking reductions, increasing temporary banner size to 32 sq ft, and adding language for final site inspections. Further discussion is scheduled for October 20, 2026. Commissioners also discussed broader issues around parking minimums and the need for an upcoming downtown parking study. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved as modified, including 12 items with staff-recommended conditions. - Orband Rezoning: Approved (6-0). - Lucatoni Rezoning: Approved (5-1, with Commissioner Davis dissenting). - STEM University MDA: Discussed and will proceed to city council; no commission action required. - Code Amendments: To be revisited and potentially adopted at the October 20, 2026 meeting. - Next Steps: Staff will refine code amendment language; future discussions on zoning review standards and downtown parking study are anticipated.

The City of Bentonville held a combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting on September 22, 2026. The meeting began with an informational session on transportation projects, followed by unanimous approval of all resolutions, ordinances, and consent agenda items on the agenda. Public testimony was heard on a property rezoning and a resident spoke about parks and trails. Consent Calendar The following items were approved en bloc as part of the consent agenda (all passed unanimously): - Resolution accepting a $6,000 grant from Best Friends Animal Society for pet adoption fee sponsorship. - Resolution adopting an Artificial Intelligence and Automated Decision Tools Policy to comply with Arkansas Act 848. - Resolution authorizing an agreement with Heartland Business Systems for Zoom phone licensing and implementation services (total $546,263.40 over 5 years). - Resolution accepting $4,000,000 in FFY2027 NWARPC STBGP-A grant funds for Greenhouse Road Improvements (with $1,000,000 local match, split 55% Bentonville, 45% Centerton). - Resolution awarding bid to Steep Creek, LLC for SW Nutmeg Drainage Improvements ($2,328,027.94). - Resolution recognizing a budget adjustment for West McNelly Road Bridge Repair. - Resolution awarding bid to On Point Excavation, LLC for SW 2nd and "O" Drainage Improvements ($550,428.03). - Resolution accepting a $185,605 Walton Family Foundation grant for design and bid documents for John DeShields Trail. - Resolution authorizing an agreement with Crafton Tull for John DeShields Trail design ($183,605). - Resolution accepting a $1,026,589 Walton Family Foundation grant for intersection improvements at SW "I" Street and SW 41st Street. - Resolution awarding a contract to All Service Electric for the SW "I" Street and SW 41st Street intersection improvements ($1,236,585.77). - Resolution authorizing a construction administration agreement with CEI Engineering for that intersection ($140,000). - Utility Board items: Resolution of intent for financing $9,621,360 for the 48" Supply Water Transmission Project; Resolution authorizing easement acquisition for Shewmaker Ph. 2 Interceptor Project; Resolution awarding bid to Crossland Heavy Contractors for Townbranch Interceptor Project ($7,605,314.85); Resolution authorizing agreement with RJN Group for SSES and modeling work in the South LS Basin ($865,530). Public Comments & Testimony - Erica Reed (Centerton resident): Encouraged the council to continue prioritizing well-lit, accessible parks and trails, specifically adequate lighting and trash facilities in busy public hubs. - Dominique (property owner at 201 SW E Street): During the public hearing for the rezoning of his property, explained that rezoning from R-1 to T3.1 was necessary to remodel his house without moving his garage, as the current garage encroaches on the public right-of-way. He expressed support for the rezoning. Discussion Items - Transportation Projects Update (Committee of the Whole): City Engineer Jared Breitwell reported on the status of bond-funded transportation and drainage projects. Since the 2021 voter-approved bond ($173.5 million for streets, $19.75 million for drainage), $59 million in bond funds have been spent on streets and $19 million on drainage. He noted a 160% increase in construction costs since the pandemic. Completed projects included multiple drainage improvements and street extensions/intersections. Projects under construction include Rainbow Curve (estimated $7.5 million, completion Q3 2028). Future projects highlighted: Tiger Boulevard Overpass over I-49 (estimated $28 million, bidding late 2026), SW Regional Airport Blvd and I Street intersection ($5 million), Walton and Central Avenue intersection (bids received, $4.1 million), Vaughn Road intersection ($13 million), Greenhouse Road safety improvements ($45 million total, partnering with Centerton), Northeast J Street Interchange ($68.4 million). Regarding sidewalks, Breitwell stated that 59 locations have been identified, with 9 currently under contract. Bus shelter pads are being installed at multiple locations. Council members discussed prioritization criteria, the need to distinguish sidewalk projects from bike trails, the importance of focusing on connecting schools, and the desire for a transparent public project list. - Consent Agenda Discussion (Committee of the Whole): The council discussed which items to place on the consent agenda for the City Council meeting. A motion to approve the consent agenda (excluding item 1, the transportation update) was made and carried by voice vote. (Note: The agenda stated that no votes are taken during Committee of the Whole, but this vote occurred during that portion of the meeting.) - Public Hearing – Utility Easement Vacation (Item 6): No public testimony was offered. The ordinance vacating the utility easement at Lot 40 of College Place Subdivision Phase 8 was approved unanimously. - Planning Rezonings: - Rezoning 201 SW E Street (RZ26-0044): Property owner Dominique spoke about the need to rezone from R-1 to T3.1 to allow remodel without moving garage. Council discussed setbacks and future uses. Approved unanimously. - Rezoning 901 E. Central Ave. (RZ26-0043): Rezoning from R-1 to T3.2. No public testimony. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved unanimously. No items were defeated. - Specific votes: - Approval of minutes from September 8, 2026: passed (voice vote, unanimous). - Resolution recognizing Detective Corporal Mark Jordan on his retirement after 32 years: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Ordinance amending Bentonville Municipal Code to expand Finance Committee terms: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Ordinance vacating utility easement: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Consent agenda (see list above): passed (roll call, unanimous). - Utility Board ordinance amending repayment schedule for 2025 Bond: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Rezoning (Massary) to T3.1: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Rezoning (Materesa Corporation) to T3.2: passed (roll call, unanimous). - Next steps / upcoming events mentioned: - Library Gom convention on Saturday, September 25 (10 am – 3 pm). - Gateway Park grand opening tentatively scheduled for November 8. - Tree giveaway on October 10 at the Municipal Building off 28th Street (7:30 am). - Active Transportation Board and staff working on signal timing for bicycles. - Traffic and Signage Committee code revision ongoing. - America 250 tile art project seeking more submissions.

The Bentonville Planning Commission convened on September 15, 2026, for a Tech Review session at 4:30 PM followed by a regular meeting at 5:00 PM at City Hall. The commission addressed a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) for night work at the Bentonville Health Care Campus, a Large Scale Development (LSD) for the Botanical Garden, and multiple rezoning requests, alongside an update on the Community Code Amendments. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the September 1, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda (4 items): The following items were approved unanimously without discussion: - Lot 1 of Oakarine Subdivision Property Line Adjustment (PLA26-0024) - Lots 4 and 5 of Roth Estates Property Line Adjustment (PLA26-0016) - Utility Easement Vacation at 702 SE Yale (VAC26-0042) - Lot 1, Phase 24 of Walmart Campus Final Plat (FP26-0008) Public Comments & Testimony - Bentonville Health Care Campus TUP (TUP26-0002): Lourdes Doran (3200 NE Sixth St) voiced strong opposition on behalf of neighbors to the nighttime work, citing disruption from noise, bright lights, vibrations, and dust. - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0042): - Matt O'Reilly (101 NE Fifth St) spoke in opposition, stating the rezoning would set a dangerous precedent for North Main Street, opening the corridor to townhome development without proper zoning adjacency. - Kim Valentine (601 N Main) spoke in opposition, emphasizing that a zoning change grants permanent property rights that could be exploited by future owners for incompatible development, recommending a variance instead. - Mark Haney (848 NW C St), the builder representing the trust, spoke in support. He cited the staff report to argue the T4.1 zoning is appropriate for the location five blocks from the square and consistent with the Community Plan's Walkable Neighborhood Place Type. Discussion Items - TUP26-0002 (Bentonville Health Care Campus Night Work): The commission considered a 6-month TUP allowing Linco to perform concrete pours at night for a parking garage and building. A key discussion point was neighbor notification. The commission crafted a condition, agreed to by the applicant, requiring written notice and door hangers to addresses within a 200-foot radius (including Prairie and Levi Lanes). The notice must include a work schedule and a contact number. Discussion also covered standard construction hours (6 AM to 7 PM) and ensuring other site work complies. - LSD26-0038 (Botanical Garden): Commissioners discussed parking lot placement, with some expressing concern that a proposed lot on Central Avenue would obstruct views of Bud's House and the downtown entrance. The applicant argued the lot (26 of 43 total spaces) was essential for functionality and code compliance, preserving a central lawn. Traffic was expected primarily via trails. The commission secured a condition for an enhanced, native evergreen screen along the lot's north and east borders. - Massary Rezoning (RZ26-0044): Applicant Dominic Massary requested a rezone from R-1 to T3.1 at 201 SW E Street. The purpose is to allow moving a garage out of the right-of-way and expanding the house footprint. No public comments were made. - Materesa Corporation Rezoning (RZ26-0043): A rezone of 901 E Central Avenue from R-1 to T3.2 was reviewed. No applicant or public comments were offered. - Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0042): Because the statutory notice sign had been posted for less than the required 15 days, the commission could not take action. The public hearing was held and testimony was collected but discussion was deferred. - Community Code Amendments: Staff updated the commission on revisions, including clarifying the Standard Review vs. Enhanced Review criteria for rezonings. An update on the City Council's parking discussion was provided, noting a directive to scope and fund a comprehensive city parking plan. The update also covered refining parking reduction language to ensure logical walkability (e.g., requiring feasible access to a greenway). Key Outcomes - Meeting Minutes & Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - TUP26-0002 (Healthcare Campus): Approved (7-0) , conditioned on a 200-foot notification radius (letter and door hanger) detailing the night work schedule and a contact number for complaints. - LSD26-0038 (Botanical Garden): Approved (7-0) , conditioned on an enhanced evergreen screening buffer of native Arkansas species on the north and east sides of the Central Avenue parking lot. - RZ26-0044 (Massary Rezoning): Approved (7-0) . - RZ26-0043 (Materesa Rezoning): Approved (7-0) . - RZ26-0042 (Palmer Revocable Trust Rezoning): Tabled unanimously to the October 20, 2026 meeting to complete the public notice period. No substantive discussion or vote on the merits was held. - Community Code Amendments: Update received; no formal action taken. Staff to continue refining standard review criteria and parking management language.

The City of Bentonville held a combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting on September 8, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM. The Committee of the Whole session featured informational updates on the 2026 Impact Fee Study, the Arkansas Act 372 library law, and downtown parking. The City Council meeting that followed included a proclamation for IT Professionals Day, a consent agenda, two public hearings for utility easement vacations, and a heavily contested rezoning request for a property at 405 NW 5th Street, which ultimately failed. Consent Calendar - Routine approvals and unanimous actions included a proclamation for National IT Professionals Day, a $21,790.43 grant for the Fall Tree Giveaway, surplus vehicle declarations for police trade-ins, appointments to city boards, resolutions for infrastructure grants (Vaughn Road Improvements, Track 19 Acquisition, Turf Installation, McKissic Creek Restoration, Townbranch Sewer), and a utility board change order. The consent agenda was approved unanimously on a single roll call vote. Public Hearings & Testimony - Utility Easement Vacations (VAC26-0032 & VAC26-0033): Public hearings were opened and closed with no speakers from the public. The ordinances were subsequently passed unanimously. - Rezoning - 405 NW 5th Street (RZ26-0041): Multiple residents testified in opposition to the rezoning from R-1 to T4.2 Neighborhood Node. - Janice Summer (338 NW 5th St): Opposed the potential for a 4-story building (50ft) in a primarily 1-story neighborhood. - Eric Summer (338 NW 5th St): Argued against a 25% height increase over adjacent properties. - Sherry Adkins (409 NW C St): Described unresolved drainage issues from adjacent developments costing her thousands. - Any Davidson (403 NW C St): Cited stormwater damage to a previous neighbor and concerns over character. - Jeff Milligan (308 NW 4th St): Called the request “spot zoning” benefiting one developer without a site plan. - Keith Paul (303 NW B St): Requested T4.1 to match the existing neighborhood character. - Jeff Clapper (412 NW 5th St): Raised pedestrian safety issues for children walking to school. - Roland Smith / Kate McNeil (406 NW C St & 413 NW 5th St): Emphasized that street infrastructure, parking, and drainage were already strained. Discussion Items - 2026 Impact Fee Study: Colin McAweeney (Tischler Bice) presented a mid-cycle refresh. Key recommendations included a decrease in the single-family detached fee from $3,808 to $3,300, the removal of the Downtown Redevelopment District Exemption, and an inflation index. Councilmember Bill questioned trip generation data and the cost burden on new homes. Councilmember Cindy expressed support for replacing the downtown exemption with an affordable housing exemption. - Library Update - Arkansas Act 372: The Library Director briefed Council on the revived sections of Act 372. The law creates potential criminal penalties for librarians related to materials deemed harmful to minors and would require book challenge appeals to be heard directly by the City Council. Councilmembers expressed concerns about vague definitions and risks to staff, agreeing to await legal clarification before implementing major changes. - Downtown Parking Discussion: Staff reviewed parking code requirements and proposed moving forward with a comprehensive downtown parking study to evaluate supply, demand, management, and enforcement. Council supported pursuing the study and potentially adjusting parking minimums in the new Community Code. Key Outcomes - Rezoning Denied (RZ26-0041): A motion to approve the rezoning of 405 NW 5th Street from R-1 to T4.2 Neighborhood Node failed by a vote of 5-2. Councilmembers Hook, Sanchez, Patterson, Acree, and Rover voted against approval. Councilmembers Siva/Ziba and Suter/Tudor voted in favor. - Future Impact Fee Vote: The 2026 Impact Fee Study will be finalized and brought for a vote at a future meeting, alongside discussions on the Downtown Exemption and affordable housing. - Parking Study to Be Scoped: Staff will develop a scope, timeline, and funding strategy for a full downtown parking study. - Library Compliance Protocols: The City will update library policies as needed to comply with Act 372 pending state clarification, while working to shield staff from criminal liability.

The Bentonville Planning Commission met on September 1, 2026, beginning with a Technical Review at 4:30 PM followed by the Formal Meeting at 5:00 PM at Bentonville City Hall. The Commission unanimously approved a nine-item Consent Agenda, which included routine plats, a campus development plan, a surgery center, and a night work permit. The majority of the formal meeting was dedicated to a public hearing and extensive commissioner deliberation on a single rezoning request (RZ26-0041) for a 0.6-acre lot at 405 NW 5th Street. The request to rezone from R-1 (Suburban Single-Family) to T4.2 (Neighborhood Node) was ultimately approved by a vote of 4-2. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously under the consent agenda: - Routine Property Line Adjustments (PLA26-0022, PLA26-0015), Final Plats for Echelon Subdivision (FP26-0003) and Walnut Grove Phase IV (FP26-0004), and Utility Easement Vacations (VAC26-0032, VAC26-0033). - Bentonville Health Care Campus (CDP26-0002): A Campus Development Plan for the site south of Central Avenue, west of I-49. - Maningas Surgery Center (LSD26-0023): A Large Scale Development at 2607 N. Walton Blvd. Staff noted the site will use a 6,000-gallon sewage storage tank with nightly pumping until a downstream basin (McKissick) is upgraded. Conditions included a previously approved $112,000 fee-in-lieu for a sidewalk along N. Walton Boulevard. - Lanterns on 4th - Night Work (TUP26-0003): A Temporary Use Permit authorizing six concrete pours at night for a post-tension podium slab. The applicant, Mr. Quoz, stated 2:00 AM start times are required due to heat constraints and to mitigate daytime traffic conflicts. Conditions include limited backup beeping and lighting directed away from nearby residences. Public Comments & Testimony (RZ26-0041 - Juergens Rezoning) One speaker supported the request, while a dozen residents spoke in opposition. All speakers were asked to identify themselves and were given three minutes. - Victoria Hodgson (300 NW 5th Street) expressed general support for the property owner and developer and excitement for the potential of the site. - Brenda Allison (412 NW 5th Street) opposed the rezoning, noting the developer’s history of seeking increased density (DN2 to DN3/T4.2). She raised concerns over potential 4-story heights, mixed-use, parking, and garbage. - Kate McNeil (413 NW 5th Street) asked the commission to slow down and plan Fifth Street better. She cited safety concerns regarding on-street parking and bicycle traffic, and challenges with trash collection for 12 units. - Brad Johnson (415 NW 5th Street) opposed, stating the community needs to see the impact of the current 12-unit construction before approving more density. He fears parking overflow. - Nina Weeks (206 NW 5th Street) opposed, stating commercial use on their street contradicts the reason families moved to the neighborhood. Traffic and safety are primary concerns. - Sherry Adkins (409 NW C Street) experiences overflow parking and drainage issues from adjacent projects. She opposed commercial uses like a coffee shop or wine bar in the residential block. - Jeannie Davidson (403 NW C Street) detailed safety hazards in the alleyway (blind turns, children playing) and called for a city comprehensive plan for parking and drainage rather than piecemeal approvals. - Brandon Nicholas (410 NW 4th Street) asked that the area maintain its residential feel. - Roland Smith (406 NW C Street) stated the block has already absorbed approximately 20 new townhouses and an estimated 40 cars in the last few years. He emphasized safety hazards for the roughly 1,000 K-6 students walking and biking on C Street. - Marie Smith (406 NW C Street) argued the business would likely fail without adequate parking and that alley headlights are intrusive. - Evan Craning (403 & 405 NW B Street) asked the commission where the city “draws the line” on density and its accumulating impacts. Discussion Items Rezoning Deliberation (RZ26-0041): - Staff Position: Tyler (Planning Staff) recommended approval based on the Future Land Use Map (Urban Neighborhood Place Type) and the T4.2 zoning of directly adjacent properties. He clarified that any future development on the site would require separate approval of drainage and parking plans. - Applicant Position: Mark Haney argued the T4.2 zoning is consistent with the comprehensive plan and is an appropriate stepping stone for the site given the surrounding zoning. He acknowledged the public’s concerns about parking and drainage but stated they are larger city infrastructure issues that cannot be resolved through this single zoning decision. He noted future developments will come back for public scrutiny. - Commissioner Concerns (Dana, Davis, Brian): Commissioners expressed strong reservations about approving the highest density classification under standard review. Commissioner Dana suggested T4.1 or T3.2 might be more appropriate and argued the future land use map should not guarantee an automatic approval if neighborhood impacts are severe. Commissioner Reggie and Wright concurred that the existing plan and surrounding zoning supported the request. Commissioner Davis stressed that compounding traffic and drainage issues cannot justify adding more density without resolution. - Commissioner Support (Her/Hill, Bennett, Wright): The Chair acknowledged the “slippery slope” but found the rezoning consistent with the adopted plan. Commissioner Wright noted the city’s need for housing outweighs the convenience concerns raised, and that parking and drainage are policy issues outside this scope. Key Outcomes - Rezoning Approved (RZ26-0041): The request to rezone 405 NW 5th Street from R-1 to T4.2 was approved on a vote of 4-2. Commissioners Bennett, Her/Hill, and Wright voted in favor; Commissioners Davis and Brian voted against. - Consent Agenda Approved: All nine items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously. - Next Steps: Staff announced that pending code amendments related to the parking and traffic management issues raised during the hearing will be presented to the commission in two weeks. A City Council parking committee meeting is scheduled for the following Tuesday.