Public Meetings - Bentonville, Arkansas

June 2, 2026 | Technical Review: 4:30 PM | Public Hearing: 5:00 PM The Bentonville Planning Commission held a public hearing and business meeting on June 2, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, three advertised rezoning requests, a parking waiver, and a large-scale development amendment. All votes were unanimous (6-0). Consent Calendar - Opal Park Phase 1 Final Plat (FP25-0011) – Approved without discussion. - Latter Day Saints Church Parking Waiver (WAV26-0008) – Approved with conditions: maximum of 253 parking spaces (code limit 109), enhanced landscape buffer on the south, compliance with drainage manual, and low-impact development (LID) for new spaces where feasible. - 8th & C St Townhomes Elevations Amendment (LSD25-0039) – Approved; the applicant sought to use lighter colors for the elevations. Public Comments & Testimony - Costello Rezoning (RZ26-0028) – The applicant, Joseph Costello, appeared online; no other public testimony. - Barron Rd, LLC Rezoning (RZ26-0029 & RZ26-0024) – Applicant Jason Engles (Expedient Civil Engineering) stated the requests were straightforward; no public comments. - Edward L. and Imelda Frail Rezoning (RZ26-0017) – Two neighbors spoke: - Vincent Thompson (6506 SW Brush Blvd) expressed concerns about infrastructure availability, spot zoning, density compatibility, stormwater runoff and flooding, and whether the city had proper authority in unincorporated areas (staff clarified the site is within city limits). He argued these issues individually warranted denial. - Brent Dyer (6509 SW Brush Blvd) raised concerns about flooding and water runoff, the location of the planned construction entrance (noting previous road damage from construction on Brush Boulevard), whether Brush Boulevard would be connected through the development (impacting traffic cut-through), and where retention ponds would be sized and sited. Discussion Items - Latter Day Saints Church Parking Waiver – Commissioners discussed the need for additional parking given overlapping services and limited off-site options. The applicant (Cody Sexton, Bloon Associates) stated the church needs 253 spaces (code limits to 109 based on 4 spaces per 1,000 sq ft). Staff recommended conditions including LID parking, drainage improvements, and an enhanced southern landscape buffer. The item was moved to consent with those conditions. - 8th & C St Townhomes Elevations Amendment – Discussed as a minor change to lighter colors; moved to consent. - Costello Rezoning (RZ26-0028) – Request to rezone 3 acres from T2.1 (Rural) to T3.1 (Neighborhood Edge) within Suburban Neighborhood Place Type, consistent with the community plan. Approved. - Barron Rd, LLC Rezonings – Two companion items: 1. RZ26-0029: Rezone interior/eastern portion to T3.2 (Neighborhood Transition) within Urban Neighborhood Place Type. 2. RZ26-0024: Rezone L-shaped portion to T4.2 (Neighborhood Node) within Urban Neighborhood Place Type. Both consistent with community plan. Approved separately. - Edward L. and Imelda Frail Rezoning (RZ26-0017) – A three-part rezone of land south of Regional Airport/east of Lee Lane from T2.1 to T4.2 (north), T3.1 (southeast), and T3.2 (remainder), after correcting a survey error from the previous meeting. Staff addressed neighbor concerns: street stubs to Brush Boulevard may be required but could be limited to bike/pedestrian connections; drainage and detention will be evaluated during future development review; construction entrance can be required off Regional Airport Boulevard rather than Brush Boulevard. The commission noted the T3.1 strip along the east boundary provides a buffer of single-family homes adjacent to the existing neighborhood. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda – Approved 6-0, including: Opal Park Phase 1 Final Plat, Latter Day Saints Church Parking Waiver (with conditions), and 8th & C St Townhomes Elevations Amendment. - Costello Rezoning (RZ26-0028) – Approved 6-0. - Barron Rd, LLC Rezoning (RZ26-0029) – Approved 6-0. - Barron Rd, LLC Rezoning (RZ26-0024) – Approved 6-0. - Edward L. and Imelda Frail Rezoning (RZ26-0017) – Approved 6-0. - Next Meeting – A Greenway Corridor Plan Phase 2 open house was announced for June 9, 2026, 5:30–7:30 PM at Bentonville Public Library.

The meeting began with the Committee of the Whole (discussion only, no votes) followed by the City Council business meeting. Major discussion centered on an unsolicited purchase offer for city-owned property at 402 South Main Street. The Council later approved a consent agenda including multiple resolutions, two proclamations, and two property line adjustment ordinances. Consent Calendar - New Business Items 3–9 & 11 – Approved unanimously without discussion: - Resolution for Cybersecurity Services – Authorized an agreement with Heartland Business Systems for renewal (amount not to exceed $200,291.49). - Resolutions Setting Public Hearings – Four resolutions setting June 9, 2026 public hearings for right-of-way vacations (VAC26-0002, VAC26-0005, VAC26-0011) and a utility easement vacation (VAC26-0013). - Resolution Awarding Bid IFB-26-31 – Awarded asphalt materials bid to Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. for street repairs/resurfacing (lowest bid). - Resolution Awarding Bid IFB-26-33 – Awarded mastic sealer bid to Innovative Roadway Solutions, LLC for $236,484.70 (sole bid). - Resolution for Special Election – Called for a special election to fill the Ward 1, Position 2 council vacancy (replacing Council Member Gayatri Richardson). - Utility Board Items 1 & 2 – Approved: - Shewmaker Phase 1 Amendment 4 – Authorized $602,604.00 for Garver Engineering for construction administration services on the Shewmaker Basin Interceptor Improvements (6,700 linear feet of 24" interceptor). - Change Order 1 – 48" Water Transmission Line Relocation – Accepted $212,171.18 change order from Garney for construction changes, adding 41 days to schedule. Discussion Items - City Property at 402 South Main Street (Committee of the Whole) – City staff presented an unsolicited purchase offer at the appraised price (approximately $3 million) for the downtown parcel currently used for library employee parking. Council members debated whether to accept, reject, or postpone the offer. Several members expressed concern about exacerbating downtown parking shortages, particularly at the library, and noted the city lacks a formal process for handling unsolicited real estate offers. Mayor and staff requested 180 days to explore options including a potential public-private partnership for a parking garage on the adjacent library surface lot. Council consensus was to let the offer expire without action and to develop a standard procedure for future unsolicited offers. No formal vote was taken as this was a Committee of the Whole discussion. - Amendment 1 for SW 2nd & 'O' Drainage Improvements (New Business Item 10) – Staff explained the amendment reduces the storm sewer scope to approximately 200 feet to bring the project within budget (as directed by Council). The original design that ran north-south along O Street was eliminated; the revised design only serves the southernmost section near the highway. Council questioned the cost savings and timeline; staff confirmed the redesign is nearly complete and the project will be rebid. The resolution was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - 402 South Main Street Offer – The unsolicited purchase offer was allowed to expire (Council consensus to reject/not act). Staff will return with a formal process for handling unsolicited real estate offers and further analysis of parking solutions, including a parking garage cost estimate. - Consent Agenda Items – All listed items passed unanimously (roll call vote: 7-0). - New Business Item 10 – Resolution approving Amendment 1 with Olsson Inc. passed unanimously. - Planning Items (PLA26-0008 & PLA26-0011) – Both property line adjustment ordinances passed unanimously (roll call vote: 7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the City Council portion.

The Bentonville Planning Commission convened for a Tech Review at 4:30 PM followed by a Regular Meeting and Public Hearing at 5:00 PM on May 19, 2026. Key actions included the approval of Providence Village Phase 4 with a dead-end road waiver, the approval of the consent agenda, and the tabling of a rezoning request for the Frail Revocable Trust property to allow for the correction of a clerical error and further discussion on land use consistency. Consent Calendar - Approved (6-0): - Property Line Adjustment PLA26-0008 (304 SW B Street) - Property Line Adjustment PLA26-0011 (102 NE F Street) - Opal Park Phase 2 Preliminary Plat (PP25-0001). This item was moved from New Business to the Consent Agenda by Commissioner Peer. Public Comments & Testimony - Providence Village Phase 4 (PP25-0009): A neighboring resident expressed strong concerns regarding the construction quality of previous phases (broken sidewalks, condemned bridges), the volume of gravel truck traffic leaving the site under an existing grading permit (projected 1,200 to 1,500 truckloads), and the density of 30 homes on a cul-de-sac significantly exceeding standard length. He complimented the Madison Heights developer's work as a positive example. - Edward L. and Imelda Frail Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0017): - Vincent Thompson (adjacent landowner): Voiced concerns about increased stormwater runoff, the capacity of rural infrastructure (specifically Rush Boulevard), and the significant density increase from current roughly half-acre lots to proposed 5,000 square foot lots. - Brent Dyer (6509 SW Rush Boulevard): Stated he was forced to purchase flood insurance following runoff from a nearby development, noted water line breaks caused by construction traffic, and questioned the erosion of agricultural land under the county plan. Discussion Items - Providence Village Phase 4 Preliminary Plat (PP25-0009): The applicant sought approval for a 20-acre site with 30 single-family detached units, requiring a waiver for a 1,370-foot dead-end road (code maximum is 660 feet). The fire marshal approved the length with a required mid-block turnaround. Staff clarified that grading permits do not have material volume limits as long as erosion control is met, detailed inspection protocols for public infrastructure, and confirmed floodplain permits were obtained for affected lots. - Edward L. and Imelda Frail Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0017): The applicant requested a change from A-1 (Agriculture) to T4.2 (Standard Review) in the Urban Corridor and T3.2 (Enhanced Review) in the Suburban Neighborhood. Staff recommended disapproval because a clerical error in the legal description placed the T4.2 request into the Suburban Neighborhood, making it inconsistent. The commission discussed alternatives like T3.1 or R1 for standard review, but the applicant noted T3.2 was desired for a mix of housing types. - Tech Review: The commission also recapped the CNU conference attended by members, noted an award for Plan Benton, and secured Commissioner Hipp as a volunteer for the Phase 2 Greenprint Master Plan sub-area meetings. Key Outcomes - May 5, 2026 Meeting Minutes: Approved. - Consent Agenda: Three items approved (6-0). - Providence Village Phase 4 Preliminary Plat (PP25-0009): Approved (6-0). Approval includes the waiver for the extended dead-end road. - Frail Revocable Trust Rezoning (RZ26-0017): Tabled Unanimously. The item will return at the next meeting to allow for review of the corrected legal description and further zoning discussions with staff.

The City of Bentonville held a combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting on May 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Bentonville City Hall. The meeting began with informational sessions in the Committee of the Whole, followed by the City Council business meeting where proclamations were issued, numerous contracts and ordinances were approved, and the council debated and ultimately filled a vacant Ward 1 seat. Consent Calendar - Items 6, 7, 9, 16-20, 22 (New Business) & Utility Board Item 2: Approved en bloc. Including purchase of an emergency communication center video system ($96,862.11) and consoles ($71,033.16), Solarwinds software renewal ($81,655.08), loan of 12 artworks from OZ Art for the Adult Recreation Center at no cost, a contract amendment for SE Walton & J Street ($24,600), rainbow curve improvements bid award to APAC-Central ($7,527,371.55), change order for Dave Peel Park (273-day extension) and plaza ($9,800), design services for a future Memorial Park Pickleball Complex ($300,000), and the Shewmaker Interceptor Rehabilitation Phase 1 construction bid ($3,743,519.10). Public Comments & Testimony - Immigration Rights Project: High school students Ashton Pizas and Sophia presented a community-based learning project on immigration rights. They shared three anonymized stories of immigrants (Anna C., Gabriel M., Jane D.) struggling with fear, limited resources, and family separation. They urged the council to expand accessible immigrant resources and legal aid programs, increase multilingual outreach, support partnerships with nonprofit immigration advocacy organizations, and create safer community spaces for all residents regardless of immigration status. - Tiger Boulevard Overpass: A resident advocated for the commencement and completion of the Tiger Boulevard overpass project connecting McCollum Drive to NE Gramercy Road. The resident cited disproportionate traffic accidents in the area, referencing neighbor-created data from BentonvilleCrashData.org, and stated that a "bike to school" event required a police escort due to safety concerns. City staff responded that the design is being finished and the project aims to bid in the Fall of 2026. Discussion Items - Quarterly Financial Update: The Committee of the Whole received the first-quarter financial report. Council members noted no extraordinary findings and praised the updated presentation format for easier year-over-year comparison. - Public Safety Equipment (Individual Votes): - Waiver of Bid for Radio Equipment ($102,601.57): Purchase of additional public safety radio equipment from KA-Comm, including a budget adjustment for a 7th dispatch console. Approved. - Waiver of Bid for 9-1-1 Equipment ($68,500): Agreement with AT&T for E9-1-1 call handling equipment and upgrades for a 7th position. Approved. - Purchase of 80 Tasers ($48,246.51 Year 1): Waiver of bid to enter a lease-to-own agreement with Axon Enterprise, Inc. to outfit all uniformed officers. Approved. - Community Code Implementation (Items 11-15): Council approved a suite of ordinances updating references, zoning districts, fee schedules, and code sections in the Bentonville Municipal Code to align with the new Bentonville Community Code adopted on April 14, 2026. This included repealing a prohibition on roller skates, blades, and skateboards (Sec. 82-86). - ARDOT Grant Transfer (Item 21): The council approved a resolution transferring ARDOT grant funds from the Elm Tree Sidepath Trail to the McCollum Sidepath Trail. A council member clarified this does not mean the Elm Tree project is cancelled; a Walton Family Foundation grant covers it. The McCollum project, delayed for years due to road ownership transfer issues, received a $1 million ARDOT grant requiring a 20% match. Staff estimates city funding needed will be minimal. - Emergency W. McNelly Road Bridge Repair (Item 23): The council approved an emergency waiver of competitive bidding to repair the W. McNelly Road bridge crossing McKissic Creek, with an emergency clause declaring immediate need and authorizing up to $500,000. - Utility Board – Substation Transformers ($6,044,984.73): The council approved a waiver of competitive bidding to purchase two substation transformers from Prolec-GE for a new substation serving the Bentonville Health Care Campus, citing market volatility and long lead times. An emergency clause was added. - City Council Vacancy Discussion and Appointment: - The council debated at length how to fill the vacant Ward 1 seat. - Councilmember Octavio argued for appointing a temporary replacement until the November general election (which would simultaneously serve as a special election) to maintain a full 8-member council for tie-breaking votes, citing a recent 4-3 vote as evidence of the need. - Councilmembers Bill, Holly, and Cindy argued against an appointment, citing insufficient time to vet over a dozen applicants, the principle of letting citizens decide in a special election, and concerns about granting an unfair incumbency advantage to an appointee ahead of the November ballot. Councilmember Holly expressed changing her position after hearing the candidates. - A motion to hear from all candidates and appoint one for the remainder of the 2026 term passed 4-3. - Candidates presented to the council, including Dan Grover (20-year resident, Parks board, Spirit of Bentonville Award, would seek reelection), Julia Gregory (Harvard analytics master's, managed large budgets, focused on affordable housing, would seek reelection), Tom Hogan (Public Art Advisory Board, marketing exec), Benjamin Prout (veteran, product manager), Kim Bell (Walmart exec), and others. - Selection: A motion was made to appoint Dan Grover. A subsequent motion to rescind the plan failed on a 3-3 tie (Mayor abstaining). The final vote to appoint Dan Grover passed 5-1 (Councilmember Burkhart dissenting). - Committee Assignments: Council agreed to assign Dan Grover to the Finance Committee. Key Outcomes - Appointment: Dan Grover was appointed to fill the vacant Ward 1 City Council seat for the remainder of the unexpired 2026 term. - Special Election: A special election will be held in conjunction with the November 2026 general election to fill the seat for a subsequent two-year term. The council ruled out an earlier August election due to an estimated $17,000 cost for the standalone election. - Financial Approvals: Approved multiple public safety and infrastructure contracts totaling over $12 million. - Infrastructure Directive: The Street Committee approved a temporary traffic light at McCollum and Central to address congestion. - Code Enforcement: Staff will review the process for addressing repeat nuisance yard offenders.

The Bentonville Planning Commission held a meeting on May 5, 2026, at City Hall, beginning with a Tech Review at 4:30 PM and a Public Hearing at 5:00 PM. The meeting covered routine approvals, a waiver for St. Stephen's driveway, and an informational update on code training. The consent agenda was approved 6-0. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The April 21, 2026, meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda Items: The following items were approved without objection, including a condition added for Phillips Park Phase 3: - Boroughs Subdivision, Lots 1 and 2 Lot Split (PP25-0008) - Walmart Campus Subdivision, Phase 22 Final Plat (FP25-0012) - Walmart Campus Subdivision, Phase 23 Final Plat (FP25-0013) - Lot 27, Block 6 of Clark's Second Addition Property Line Adjustment (PLA26-0009) - Phillips Park Phase 3 Large Scale Development (LSD26-0005) – with an added condition that the applicant (City of Bentonville) install 18 additional trees on site due to a conflict with fiber optics on the southerly side of SE 28th Street. - St. Stephen's Driveway Waiver (WAV26-0005) – requesting a 31-foot waiver from Section 1100.02(a)(6) (distance between curb cuts), to reconfigure driveway(s) to one entrance and two exits. Discussion Items - St. Stephen's Driveway Waiver: Staff explained the waiver is for 31 feet (requested a 150-foot requirement). The project would change one existing exit into an entrance and add a second exit. One commissioner noted signage already reads "exit only." A staff member recused due to affiliation with the church. The item was moved to the consent agenda via a motion and second, with no objections. - Code School Informational: A staff member announced an additional Code School training session on the new code on July 17, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the Bentonville Library (approximately two hours). Commissioners appreciated the extra session, noting ongoing questions about the code. Key Outcomes - The April 21, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - The consent agenda (including the six items above) was approved on a 6-0 roll call vote. - No further business was discussed, and the meeting adjourned.

The Bentonville City Council met on April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM at City Hall in a combined Committee of the Whole and City Council meeting. The Council adopted numerous resolutions and ordinances, accepted a resignation, discussed vacancy procedures, and approved multiple public works and planning items. Proclamations - National Lineman Appreciation Day: The Council proclaimed April 18, 2026 as National Lineman Appreciation Day, honoring Bentonville Electric Utility staff. - National Library Week: The Council proclaimed April 19–25, 2026 as National Library Week, celebrating the Bentonville Public Library. Consent Calendar The Council approved the following items via consent agenda (items 7, 8, 9, 16, 18, 19, 21–26, and utility board items 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8): - Resolution approving budget adjustment to purchase property at 910 SE 14th Street - Resolution to surplus a police vehicle and transfer ownership to Arkansas Municipal League - Resolution to accept $51,550 in insurance funds for a replacement police vehicle - Resolution setting a public hearing for a utility easement vacation (VAC26-0025) - Resolution accepting an award from the Arkansas Site Development Program - Resolution approving a Memorandum of Understanding with Carroll Electric - Resolution approving a contract with FUSE Corps for an Executive Fellowship - Resolution approving an amended agreement with Hight Jackson for Parks Maintenance Facility - Resolutions authorizing grant applications for the Eagle Way Trail Project (CRP, RTP, STBGP-A, TAP) - Resolution accepting an FAA grant for the Bentonville Municipal Airport - Utility: Resolution revising Bella Vista Village wholesale water contract - Utility: Resolution awarding bid for Aluminum Sulfate to Chemtrade Chemicals - Utility: Resolutions awarding bids for sanitary sewer improvements (CIPP lining, pipe bursting, open cut, manhole rehabilitation) Public Comments & Testimony - Alec (unclear name) spoke in favor of establishing specific decibel limits for low-frequency sound, stating that current general limits allow speakers to shake his windows, and recommended fines for violations pursuant to Arkansas Code 14-53-504. Discussion Items 1. Resignation of Councilmember Gayatri Richardson and Vacancy (Item 3): The Council accepted the resignation and declared a vacancy. A lengthy discussion ensued on whether to appoint someone until the next election or hold a special election. Councilmembers debated the incumbent advantage of an appointment, legal options for a special election (possible in August or November), and costs. The Council decided to seek information from the county and will decide at the next meeting (May 12, 2026) whether to appoint or hold a special election. Any applications received by May 11 will be considered. 2. Library Fee Ordinance (Item 4): The Council approved the ordinance establishing 2026 fees. A typographical discrepancy ($30 vs. $25) in a memorandum was clarified—the correct non-resident library card fee is $25 per household for two years, consistent with the ordinance spreadsheet. An emergency clause was added for immediate effect. 3. Library Advisory Board and Library Code Amendments (Items 5, 6): Approved without discussion. 4. Resolution Accepting Arkansas Site Development Program Grant (Item 17): The Council approved acceptance of a $142,500 grant for environmental studies and due diligence on a 100-acre I-2 zoned city-owned property. Some councilmembers raised concerns about potential industrial development, but staff clarified the grant does not lock the city into a specific use; future sales or development would require council approval. The land has been difficult to market, and this grant helps make it shovel-ready. 5. Change Order with CEI Engineering for McCollum Sidepath (Item 20): The Council approved a $144,000 amended agreement for bidding and construction services. A councilmember inquired about a "project backlog" mentioned in the agenda; staff explained that two purchasing agents left, causing delays, and outsourcing to engineering was a solution. Approximately $1 million of the project is grant-funded. 6. Utility Board Items: - Item 1: Waiver of bid to purchase 750 copper underground wire from Stuart Irby for an estimated $863,053.13, citing market volatility. Approved with emergency clause. - Item 4: Waiver of bid to purchase a direct replacement compost grinder from JWC Environmental for $54,750. Approved with emergency clause. - Item 2 (consent): A councilmember thanked staff for negotiating a revised wholesale water contract with Bella Vista Village Property Owners Association. 7. Planning Items: - Item 1: Lot split of Hanwa Addition (LS22-0051) approved. - Item 2: Lot split of McKissic Springs Addition (LS26-0006) approved. - Item 3: Rezoning of 306 SE 2nd Street from DN-3 (Downtown High Density Residential) to DN-4 (Downtown Mixed-Use Residential) (RZ26-0021) approved after discussion. A councilmember expressed concern about height transitions adjacent to single-family homes; staff noted the new code includes height transition protections within 50 feet. The area is developing rapidly and street improvements will be required. - Item 4: Rezoning of 101 Oakhurst Street from A-1 (Agriculture) to R-1 (Low Density Single-Family Residential) (RZ26-0022) approved. Key Outcomes - Vacancy declared: The Council accepted Gayatri Richardson's resignation and will decide on appointment or special election at the May 12 meeting. - Library fee ordinance passed with a correction to non-resident card fee ($25/2 years). - Arkansas Site Development Program grant accepted ($142,500) for industrial property due diligence. - CEI Engineering amendment approved ($144,000) for McCollum Sidepath Phase 2. - Utility purchases approved: Copper wire (up to $863,053.13) and compost grinder ($54,750), both with emergency clauses. - All planning items approved: two lot splits and two rezoning requests. - Consent agenda approved (20+ items covering police vehicle replacement, grant applications, utility contracts, etc.). - Next meeting: May 12, 2026 (Councilmember to participate remotely, not vote).

The Bentonville Planning Commission held a technical review session at 4:30 PM followed by the regular meeting at 5:00 PM on April 21, 2026. The commission considered several land development applications, including lot splits, a large-scale development, an alley width and pavement waiver, and two rezoning requests. All items were approved, with the rezoning of the Esslinger property generating notable discussion about zoning transitions and building heights. Consent Calendar - Lots 2 & 3 of Hanwa Addition Lot Split (2500 SW Regional Airport Blvd, LS22-0051) – Approved unanimously. - Brightbox Condos Large Scale Development (802 SE G Street, LSD25-0041) – Approved unanimously; a commissioner noted that utilities on G Street would be underground. - McKissic Springs Addition, Lots 2 & 3 Lot Split (South of Motley Rd, east of SW Hydrangea Rd, LS26-0006) – Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Esslinger Rezoning (RZ26-0021): No members of the public spoke at the hearing, but the city received objection letters from neighboring properties at 302 and 304 Henry Street, which the applicants addressed during the discussion. - Rankin Rezoning (RZ26-0022): No public comments were made. Discussion Items - 4th Street Alley Waiver (WAV26-0007) – The applicant, representing AAIGT, LLC, requested a waiver to use the existing 12-foot alley width instead of the required 20-foot right-of-way and 16-foot pavement for two narrow lots at 433 SW 4th Street. Engineering staff noted that while the waiver does not follow the Master Street Plan, it would not cause negative impacts if approved. The commission discussed lot dimensions, drainage, and the feasibility of building homes with the reduced alley width. - Esslinger Rezoning (RZ26-0021) – Brad and Cindy Esslinger sought to rezone 306 SE 2nd Street from DN-3 (T4.2) to DN-4 (T5.1) to align with the City Center Place Type. Commissioner Bennett expressed concerns about density and compatibility with surrounding R-1 districts. Staff explained that the T5.1 district includes transition zones that would limit building height to 36 feet within 100 feet of R-1 properties, which is more restrictive than the current T4.2 district (which allows up to 50 feet without transition height limits). This alleviated some concerns. - Rankin Rezoning (RZ26-0022) – The applicant sought to rezone 101 Oakhurst Street from A-1 (T2.1) to R-1 to match adjacent development. Staff noted significant topography on the site. The commission approved without discussion. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (3 items) approved unanimously (5-0). - 4th Street Alley Waiver approved unanimously (5-0). - Esslinger Rezoning (RZ26-0021) approved unanimously (5-0). - Rankin Rezoning (RZ26-0022) approved unanimously (5-0). - The planning office's move to 3200 SW Municipal Dr was noted as an informational item.

The City Council of Bentonville, Arkansas, met in a combined Committee of the Whole and regular session on April 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. The meeting included proclamations recognizing emergency and animal services personnel, a consent agenda with routine approvals, a public hearing for an alley vacation, and action on numerous planning items, including the adoption of a new Community Code, Zoning Map, and overlay districts, as well as a development agreement for the Central and Battlefield project. Council also considered several rezonings and property plats. Proclamations - National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week (April 12–18, 2026): Recognized the Bentonville Emergency Communications Center. The proclamation noted the center handled 110,840 telephone calls and dispatched 59,459 police, fire, and EMS calls in the past year. - National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week (April 12–18, 2026): Recognized Bentonville Animal Services employees, including Shannon Gabbard, Tyler Shambles, Logan Weber, Emily Kearns, Kristen Teague, Kim Roberts, and new officer Sky Brown. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously (7-0): - Resolution authorizing purchase of evidence storage system from Patterson Pope, Inc. ($159,064.84). - Resolution for a 3-year Enterprise Agreement with ESRI for GIS software ($180,900). - Resolution extending the temporary display of artwork by Tim Ernst at City Hall at no cost. - Resolutions setting public hearings on April 28, 2026, for one right-of-way vacation (VAC26-0005) and six utility easement vacations (VAC26-0009, 0012, 0015, 0022, 0024). - Appointment of Council Member Beckie Seba as ex-officio to the Active Transportation Advisory Board. - Resolution authorizing an agreement with Your Total Fitness Shop for fitness equipment ($107,392.13). - Resolution authorizing sales tax remittance for two Husqvarna Robotic Mowers ($4,689.35). - Resolution awarding bid IFB-26-01 for a 2026 Cab and Chassis to Industrial Truck Equipment ($120,978.00). - Resolution authorizing Mayor to sign a quitclaim deed with Lorane, LLC. - Resolution declaring various items as surplus for landfill disposal. - Utility Board resolution authorizing sales tax remittance for a heavy duty forklift ($10,339.80). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received during the public hearing on the alley vacation ordinance (item 6). - On the Central and Battlefield Development Agreement (item 16), three speakers registered. Laura Duncan spoke in opposition, relaying a personal emergency response story and urging the Council to prioritize traffic safety. Leon Fletcher spoke in opposition, questioning the clarity of the agreement and expressing concern that the fee-in-lieu could be used for other purposes. Developer’s attorney Bill Watkins addressed the Council, explaining the contract’s protections and the developer’s history of good-faith negotiation. - During the adoption of the Bentonville Community Code (item 17), an online speaker expressed concern that a parcel on Central Avenue was not zoned as suburban residential as designated in the future land use plan, and worried about the potential for commercial development and building height. Discussion Items - Central and Battlefield Development Agreement: Council members engaged in extensive debate over traffic mitigation, the $3 million fee-in-lieu, and the city’s commitment to infrastructure improvements. Council Member Acree sought specific language tying the improvements to a timeline, while Council Member Hook noted unresolved traffic issues on Battlefield and Central and expressed skepticism that the agreement would deliver solutions. Council Member Sanchez argued that the fee gives the city flexibility to address future traffic needs as more developments and data emerge. The City Engineer acknowledged that a final design for the intersection is not yet ready. The resolution passed 5–2, with Acree and Hook voting no. - Adoption of the Bentonville Community Code: Staff clarified that the code replaces the previous zoning framework with a form-based system, including transition zones between different intensities. A specific concern about a property on Central Avenue (currently zoned RO) was addressed: the code translates RO to T4.2, which allows slightly more commercial uses and height than RO but is less intensive than other downtown districts. The code was adopted 7–0. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of March 10 and March 31, 2026 (7-0). - Suspended rules requiring three readings of ordinances; all items read by title only (7-0). - Consent agenda approved (7-0). - Ordinance vacating alley right‑of‑way VAC26-0004 approved (7-0). - Lot Split – Little Osage Farms (LS26-0002) approved (6-0-1, Burckart abstained). - Final Plat – Walmart Campus Phase 21 (FP25-0010) approved (7-0). - Property Line Adjustment – Fairview Heights (PLA25-0016) approved (7-0). - Lot Split – Clark’s Addition (LS26-0005) approved (7-0). - Lot Split – Plumley’s Place (LS25-0038) approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Inclusion Reality (RZ26-0008) R-1 to DN-4 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Pacific Avenue Real Holdings (RZ26-0009) R-1 to DN-3 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Phillips (RZ26-0010) R-1 to DN-3 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Chen & Ehret Real Holdings (RZ26-0011) R-1 to DN-3 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Marvin Gardens Real Holdings (RZ26-0012) R-1 to DN-3 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – LoxBlox, LLC (RZ26-0013) R-1 to DN-3 approved (6-1, Hook no). - Rezoning – Pennsylvania Ave Real Holdings (RZ26-0014) R-1 to DN-3 approved (6-1, Hook no). - Rezoning – Pennsylvania Ave Real Holdings (RZ26-0015) R-1 to DN-3 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Ultra Homes (RZ26-0016) R-1 to R-2 approved (7-0). - Rezoning – Kuhlman Properties (RZ26-0020) A-1 to C-3 approved (7-0). - Central and Battlefield Development Agreement approved (5-2, Acree and Hook no). - Bentonville Community Code adopted (7-0). - Bentonville Zoning Map adopted (7-0). - Downtown Neighborhood Overlay District Map adopted (7-0). - Downtown Center Overlay District Map adopted (7-0). Committee Reports - Council Member Hook reported the Tree and Landscape committee’s Spring Tree Giveaway distributed over 500 trees, and thanked staff for organizing the Celebrate America street clean-up. - The Mayor asked Council members to indicate preferences regarding publication of city-issued phone numbers and home addresses on the city website; consensus was to remove addresses. - Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

The Bentonville Planning Commission met on April 7, 2026, at City Hall, beginning with a Tech Review session at 4:30 PM followed by the regular meeting and public hearings. The commission voted on 13 public hearing items, including an overlay district map, two conditional use permits (CUPs), and ten rezoning requests. The commission also tabled a sidewalk waiver indefinitely and received updates on the Future Land Use Map, Community Code revisions, and the 2025 Development Report. Consent Calendar - A 5-item consent agenda was approved unanimously (7-0), including lot splits for Little Osage Farms, Clark's Addition, and Plumley's Place, a final plat for Walmart Campus Phase 21, and a property line adjustment for Fairview Heights Addition. New Business & Staff Discussion (Tech Review) - Mattingly Sidewalk Waiver: Staff reviewed a request to waive the 12-foot sidewalk requirement for a remodel project at 2902 NW 3rd Street. Existing sidewalk is 5-6 feet. Discussion covered utility conflicts, topography, and the future connection to the planned Elm Tree trail extension. The Traffic Safety and Signage Committee is reviewing crosswalk requests in the area. Public Hearings & Action Items Downtown Neighborhood Overlay District Map - Approved 7-0. The overlay was the third revision to clarify building height language, limiting it to the lower of one story or 12 feet above the average building height on the block. Public speakers (including Dr. Lau and Celia Swanson) expressed strong support, stating the overlay is critical for preserving the historic character. Bike Fest 2026 Conditional Use Permit - Approved 7-0. The festival is scheduled for June 12–14 at the Applegate property. The permit was modified to allow setup beginning June 3rd. The applicant noted a new option for paid on-site parking (150-200 spaces), alongside free shuttles and bike valet. Bentonville Film Festival Conditional Use Permit - Approved 7-0. The event at The Momentary is scheduled for June 18–20. The CUP includes a planned firework show that will require separate permitting through Building and Fire. Inclusion Reality, LLC Rezoning (906, 908, 1000 SE 10th Street) - Approved 7-0 (R1 to DN4 / T5.1). Staff noted the property aligns with the Future Land Use Map. Maximum height is 4 stories or 50 feet. Pacific Avenue Real Holdings, LLC Rezoning (1813 SE Crouch Street) - Approved 7-0 (R1 to DN3 / T4.2). - Public Opposition: Neighbors (including Gwen Duncan, Robert Wilson, and via a letter from Sherry Hersafi) strongly opposed the rezoning, citing concerns about traffic from the adjacent Walmart campus, parking overflow, and incompatibility with the single-family neighborhood. - Applicant Position: The owner stated the lot will lose significant area to a future ARDOT highway expansion and the rezoning is intended only to secure favorable setbacks to build a single-family home. He stated the lot is too small for multi-family. Phillips Rezoning (309 SE B Street) - Approved 7-0 (R1 to DN3). Applicant requested the change to gain reduced setback allowances to expand an existing single-family home. A neighbor noted DN3 allows for future multi-family, raising concerns about transition zones. Sky View Acres Rezonings (5 properties) - Chen & Ehret Real Holdings, LLC (1105 Convair St): Approved 7-0. Applicant intends to split the lot for single-family homes. - Marvin Gardens Real Holdings, LLC (2202/2204 Douglas St): Approved 6-1. Applicant intends to split the lot for single-family homes. - LoxBlox, LLC (1005 Lockheed St): Approved 7-0. - Pennsylvania Ave Real Holdings, LLC (1306 Lockheed St): Approved 7-0. - Pennsylvania Ave Real Holdings, LLC (1202 Lockheed St): Approved 7-0. Ultra Homes, LLC Rezoning (N of SW Anglin Road) - Approved 7-0 (R1 to R2 / T4.1). Staff noted the property is outside the city's water service boundary. Kuhlman Properties, LLC Rezoning (804 SW 12th Street) - Approved 7-0 (A1 to C3 / T5.2). The lot is a small parcel surrounded by commercial zoning. Height is limited by proximity to the Bentonville Airport. Key Outcomes - Mattingly Waiver: Tabled indefinitely. The permit can be issued, but a certificate of occupancy will be withheld until the sidewalk issue is resolved. - Community Code Update: Staff reported revisions passed by City Council (T6 enhanced review, increased civic space threshold from 6 to 10 acres, parking setback changes). The ordinance was tabled at City Council and will be considered again on April 14. - 2025 Development Report: Presented by staff. The city's 2025 population estimate is 65,089. The report showed a decrease in projects entering the pipeline but an increase in permitted projects, attributed to the resolution of sewer capacity issues.