Benton public meetings in 2025

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will consider multiple ordinances and resolutions at this meeting, including zoning changes in Eden Estates and for a private school site, updates to animal control fees, and requests to place tax liens on four properties. The council will also vote on renewing software contracts and confirming reappointments to historic and utility commissions.

• Ordinance 61: Amend Animal Control Code
• Ordinance 62: Set new service rates at 1200 South Market Animal Shelter
• Ordinance 65: Rezone multiple lots in Eden Estates from R2 to R5
• Ordinance 67: Rezone parcel #805-22100-007 from R8 to C3 for a private school
• Resolutions 101-104: Request tax liens on properties at 120 N Conrad St, 1220 Sunset Dr, 122 W Drive, and 2317 Wright Ave

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The commission will review financial and marketing reports and discuss the development of the Exit 114 property. The meeting also includes the formation of a Budget Committee and a Benton Matters Committee.

• Development of Exit 114 Property
• Budget Committee formation
• Benton Matters Committee formation
• Profit and Loss and Bank Balance reports

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee of Benton, AR, will convene a meeting to approve minutes, accept maintenance for The Preserves Phase 3, and receive project updates. No substantive decisions are listed beyond procedural items.

• Maintenance acceptance for The Preserves Ph 3

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will convene immediately after the Parks and Streets Committees, with a procedural agenda including roll call, FOIA compliance statement, and minutes approval. No new decisions or discussions are listed beyond routine items.

City Council Meetings

The Finance Committee will review October 2025 Benton Utilities financials and November 2025 general financials. The body will also discuss the renewal of agreements for the Saline County Jail and finance software.

• October 2025 Benton Utilities financials
• Saline County Jail agreement renewal
• Finance Software agreement renewal
• November 2025 financials

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee will review several zoning ordinances and fee amendments. The body will also consider appointments to the Public Utilities Commission and Historic District Commission.

• Ordinance to rezone Eden Estates from R2 to R5
• Ordinance to rezone parcel 805-221-007 from R8 to C3 and a conditional use request
• Ordinance amending requirements and fees for rezones and conditional use permits
• Resolution to appoint Kevin Perry as PUC Commissioner
• Resolutions to reappoint Wanda Posey and Shelly Reed to the Historic District Commission

Animal Control

The Animal Services Committee will meet to consider an ordinance regarding animal shelter service rates and an amended chicken ordinance. The committee will also receive an update on the new shelter.

• Ordinance on Animal Shelter service rates
• Amended chicken ordinance
• Update on new Shelter

Community Services

The Benton Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from the November 4 special meeting and conduct standard procedural steps. The body will then hear and likely decide on five land-use items: a final plat for Severn Landing Phase 4, a rezoning request for Eden Estates from R2 to R5 on multiple lots, a preliminary plat for Winchester Way, a conditional use permit for a school, and a site plan for a convenience store at 6623 Alcoa Road.

• Severn Landing Phase 4 [Final Plat]
• Eden Estates [Rezone from R2 to R5; Multiple Lots]
• Winchester Way [Preliminary Plat]
• #805-22100-007 [Conditional Use for School]
• 6623 Alcoa Rd [C-Store; Site Plan]

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from the November 4, 2025 meeting, receive departmental reports including safety updates and October financials, and discuss the 2026 budget. The meeting follows standard procedural items and FOIA compliance.

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on November 17, 2025, to approve the 2026 budget for multiple city funds and vote on resolutions requesting certified liens against three properties for unpaid city expenses. The meeting will also consider ordinances on zoning changes, a church conditional use, and employee retirement benefits.

• Adopt 2026 budget for General Fund, Streets, Animal Services, Parks, and Special Revenue Funds
• Request certified lien against 609 Military Road for unpaid city expenses
• Request certified lien against 730 Alcoa Road for unpaid city expenses
• Request certified lien against 1222 Cherry Lane for unpaid city expenses
• Rezone 802 and 806 Columbia Ave from R2 to R5 district

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The commission will review financial reports and receive updates on the Benton Event Center and marketing efforts. Members will also discuss the development of the Exit 114 property and the term of Commissioner Elgin Hamner.

• Development of Exit 114 Property
• Benton Event Center Report
• Marketing Report
• Commissioner Term of Elgin Hamner

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a Personnel, Health & Safety Meeting to approve minutes from the October 13, 2025 meeting and discuss several personnel-related ordinances, including the repeal of a PT ordinance, a retirement ordinance for the City Attorney, and an APERS purchase for non-uniformed employees.

• Approval of minutes from October 13, 2025 meeting
• City Clerk status repealing PT ordinance
• City Attorney retirement ordinance
• APERS purchase for non-uniformed employees

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet on November 11, 2025, to review the 2026 city budgets and discuss financial reports for Benton Utilities from September and October 2025. The committee will also approve minutes from the October 13, 2025 meeting and address any other business.

• 2026 City of Benton budgets
• Benton Utilities September 2025 financials
• Benton Utilities October 2025 financials

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will review and vote on ordinances to rezone three parcels and grant conditional use permits for two properties. The Planning & Zoning Commission provided recommendations for these land-use changes. No new business or budget items are listed on this procedural agenda.

• Conditional use permit for 1203 W. Sevier Street
• Rezone 802 & 806 Columbia Avenue
• Rezone Parcel Number 805-22100-000
• Conditional use permit for Parcel Number 805-221-000

Animal Control

The Animal Services Committee will meet to receive updates on a grant and the status of the new shelter. The body will also discuss new services to be provided at the new shelter facility.

• Update on grant
• Discussion of new services to be provided at New Shelter
• Update on new Shelter

City Council Meetings

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific projects, contracts, or policy changes are listed for discussion.

City Council Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to discuss code compliance liens for three specific properties. The committee will also review the October monthly report from the DRC.

• Code compliance cleanup lien: 609 Military Road
• Code compliance cleanup lien: 730 Alcoa Road
• Code compliance cleanup lien: 1222 Cherry Lane
• Review of October DRC Monthly Report

Community Services

The Benton Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to review zoning changes, conditional use permits, and site plans. The agenda includes rezoning requests, variances, and preliminary plats for residential and commercial projects.

• Variance for Lot Size Minimum at 2415 Cedar Ridge Drive
• Conditional Use for Church at 1203 W. Sevier Street
• Conditional Use for Youth Home at 3168 Haley Court
• Rezone from R2 to R5 at 802 & 806 Columbia Avenue
• Rezone from R8 to S at #805-22100-000

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will meet to review the 2026 budget and receive a final FEMA update. The body will also discuss a Constellation change in law notice and the posting of an advertisement for a commissioner.

• 2026 Budget Review
• Final FEMA Update
• Constellation Change In Law Notice
• Posting Ad for Commissioner

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss several rezoning requests and infrastructure projects. The body is deciding on contracts for drainage and trail work, as well as funding for animal shelter equipment.

• Contract with JCON Inc. for $611,377.50 for cross-street drainage improvement
• Budget increase of $583,381.99 for MWI Animal Health dog and cat kennels
• Contract with Redstone Construction for $44,173.00 for Phase One of the Southwest Trail
• Rezoning of 2011 Watts Road from R1 Single Family to R5 Multi Family
• Ordinance modifying the pay structure for General Fund, Street, Animal Services, and Parks employees

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The commission will review financial reports and receive updates on the Benton Event Center and marketing efforts. Members will also discuss the development of the Exit 114 property and commissioner term expirations.

• Development of Exit 114 Property
• Benton Event Center Report
• Marketing Report
• Commissioner Term Expiration

City Council Meetings

The Benton Parks Committee will convene to approve the minutes of its previous meeting and review the 2026 Program Price Sheet. No substantive policy decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from prior meeting
• Review of 2026 Program Price Sheet

The Parks Committee approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025, meeting. The committee also accepted the 2026 Program Price Sheet, which includes some deletions and price increases of $5.00 for certain programs.

• Approved July 15, 2025, minutes
• Approved 2026 Program Price Sheet

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee will meet to approve minutes and accept low bids for two construction projects: Segment 5A of the SW Trail and Phase 3 of Cross Street. The committee will also discuss a land donation for Segment 5B of the SW Trail and receive project updates.

• Low bid acceptance for Segment 5A SW Trail
• SW Trail Segment 5B land donation
• Low bid acceptance for Cross Street Phase 3

The Streets and Drainage Committee approved a bid for Cross Street Phase 3 drainage improvements and a land donation for the Southwest Trail Segment 5B. A resolution for Southwest Trail Phase 1 construction was advanced to the City Council for final approval.

• Approved September 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved advancing Southwest Trail Phase 1 resolution for Redstone Construction bid of $44,173 to City Council
• Approved land donation to County for Southwest Trail Segment 5B (unanimous)
• Approved $611,377.50 bid for Cross Street Phase 3 drainage project
• Approved monthly Streets and Drainage report

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee will discuss several zoning changes for specific properties and updates to rezone notice requirements. The body will also consider a resolution to reappoint Elgin Hammer to the A&P Commission and an increase in rezone fees.

• Rezoning of 2011 Watts Road from R1 to R5
• Rezoning of 15228 I-30 (Blue Heaven Property) from C3 & R5 to C3 ONLY
• Rezoning of 2319 Kelso Circle R2 to C2
• Rezoning of 825 N Main Street from R2 to C1
• Increase of Rezone/Conditional Use Fee to $60

The committee approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. Several rezoning ordinances were presented for discussion, and two ordinances regarding rezoning fees and notice requirements were tabled until November.

• Approved September 2025 minutes
• Tabled Ordinance to increase Rezone/Conditional Use fee
• Tabled Ordinance for Rezone/Conditional Use Notice requirements

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet to approve minutes from a previous meeting and discuss new business, including code compliance liens for five properties and a proposed ordinance to prohibit hunting within city limits. The council will also review the Development Review Commission's monthly report.

• 2014 West Lakeview Dr. (cleanup lien)
• 3104 Lava Lane (cleanup lien)
• 723 Denton Street (cleanup lien)
• 1714 Huntley Street (cleanup lien)
• 1406 Highway 35 (demolition lien)

The Council approved moving forward with liens and code compliance actions to recover funds for cleanups and one demolition at five specific addresses. A discussion regarding Ordinance No. of 2025 was held, but no action was taken pending further information from the city attorney.

• Approved recovery of funds for cleanup at 2014 West Lakeview Drive
• Approved recovery of funds for cleanup at 3104 Lava Lane
• Approved recovery of funds for cleanup at 723 Denton Street
• Approved recovery of funds for cleanup at 1714 Huntley Street
• Approved recovery of funds for demolition at 1406 Highway 35
• Approved September 11th minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a Personnel, Health & Safety meeting to approve the 2026 wage structure and purchase APERS retirement benefits for non-uniformed employees. The meeting will also include routine procedural items such as approving previous minutes and adjourning.

• 2026 Wage Structure
• APERS purchase for non-uniformed employees
• Approval of August 11, 2025 meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes, review August 2025 financials for Benton Utilities, discuss a Segra franchise agreement, and accept bids for an animal kennel. The committee will also consider 2026 city budgets, a fire asset surplus, and APERS purchase recommendations.

• Review August 2025 financials for Benton Utilities
• Discuss Segra Franchise Agreement
• Accept bids for Animal Kennel
• Consider 2026 City of Benton budgets
• Review Fire surplus of assets

Community Services

The Benton Planning Commission will meet on October 7, 2025, to approve minutes from previous meetings and vote on several rezoning requests. The board will also discuss proposed ordinance changes and updates to rezone/conditional use fees.

• Rezone 2011 Watts Road from R1 to R5
• Rezone 15228 I-30 from C3 & R5 to C3
• Rezone 2319 Kelso Circle from R2 to C2
• Rezone 825 N Main Street from R2 to C1
• Vote on Rezone/Conditional Use Fee and Notice Updates

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will hold its regular meeting to receive departmental reports, discuss preliminary budget items, and vote on several bids including sludge removal, tree trimming, and substation upgrades. The commission will also address an Attorney General complaint and receive a safety update.

• Preliminary budget discussion
• Equalization Basin Sludge Removal Bid
• Tree Trimming Bid
• Alcoa Substation Upgrade Bid approval
• Attorney General Complaint 482648-Sherry Tull

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will decide on Ordinance 47 to create a new municipal improvement district for Rosemary Fields Subdivision and vote on five resolutions to place certified liens on properties for unpaid city expenses. The meeting also includes routine procedural items and committee reports.

• Establish Benton Municipal Property Owners' Multipurpose Improvement District No. 141 (Rosemary Fields Subdivision)
• Certified lien against 211 East North Street ($136.16 total)
• Certified lien against 301 Troutt Avenue ($821.21 total)
• Certified lien against 6606 Garvin Drive
• Certified lien against 2502 Gattin Road

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission will meet at 3:30 pm on September 10, 2025 at Benton City Hall to review financial reports, event center updates, and marketing activities. No funding requests or ordinance votes are listed on this procedural agenda.

City Council Meetings

The Planning Commission is holding a special meeting to review a request from the Board of Adjustments. The primary item for consideration is a variance for setbacks at a specific property.

• Variance for setbacks at 1309 Nature Way

The City Council approved a variance request for a property at 1309 Nature Way. The request allowed a home built 5 feet from the property line instead of the required 8 feet.

• Approved variance for West Side Setback Line at 1309 Nature Way (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes, review July 2025 utility finances, and discuss police surplus assets, bid waivers, and retirement/pension requests. The agenda also includes acceptance of the 2024 audit and a discussion on an RV park.

• Police surplus of assets – police car
• Police waiving competitive bid for the purchase of mobile radios
• Bid acceptance for Streets & Drainage Grapple Truck
• 2024 Legislative Audit acceptance & Financial Stability movement
• Request for retirement for Alderpersons

The committee approved a $207,000 grapple truck for Streets & Drainage and an $81,000 radio upgrade for police. It also authorized transferring $599,756 from the General Fund to the Financial Stability Fund. The committee reviewed Benton Utilities financials and the 2024 Legislative Audit.

• Approved $207,000 contract with River City Hydraulics for a new grapple truck
• Approved $81,000 radio upgrade through Command Communications
• Approved transfer of $599,756 to the Financial Stability Fund
• Approved resolution to auction a surplus 2009 Dodge Charger
• Approved August 11, 2025 meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a regular meeting where the primary decision involves rezoning requests from the Planning & Zoning Commission. Two parcels on Alcoa Road and one additional parcel will be considered for rezoning changes, which could impact future development. The meeting also includes procedural items such as approval of prior minutes and a FOIA compliance statement.

• Rezone 6718 & 6720 Alcoa Road from R2 to C2
• Rezone parcel 805-10769-000 from R2 to R6

The committee approved the minutes from August 2025. A proposal to rezone 6718 and 6720 Alcoa Road from R2 to C2 was discussed, but no vote was taken before the meeting adjourned.

• Approved August 2025 minutes

City Council Meetings

The Community Services Committee will review code compliance liens for five specific properties. The body will also consider an ordinance to establish Property Owners’ Multipurpose Improvement District no. 141 for the Rosemary Fields Subdivision.

• Code compliance liens for 803 Belaire Dr., 6606 Garvin Dr., 301 Troutt Ave., 211 E. North St., and 2502 Gattin Rd.
• Ordinance to establish Property Owners’ Multipurpose Improvement District no. 141 (Rosemary Fields Subdivision)
• Review of the August DRC Monthly Report

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from the August 4 meeting, receive departmental reports including July financials and a safety update, and discuss power supply and a consent administrative order closure. The meeting is procedural with no formal decisions listed.

Community Services

The Planning Commission will consider rezoning requests for properties on Alcoa Rd and a specific parcel identified as #805-10769-000. The body will also review preliminary and final plats for three development projects. Additionally, the Board of Adjustments will address a tabled variance request for 7709 Shoreline Blvd.

• Variance for side setback at 7709 Shoreline Blvd
• Rezone from R2 to C2 for 6718 & 6720 Alcoa Rd
• Rezone from R2 to R6 for parcel #805-10769-000
• Preliminary Plat for The Crossings @ 114; Phase 2
• Final Plats for Cottage Walk; Phase 1 and Spencers Crossing; Phase 2

The commission approved a rezone from R2 to C2 for 6718 & 6720 Alcoa Rd and approved preliminary and final plats for The Crossings @ 114 and Spencers Crossing. A variance request for 7709 Shoreline Blvd failed for lack of a motion, and a rezone request for parcel #805-10769-000 was withdrawn.

• Approved rezone from R2 to C2 for 6718 & 6720 Alcoa Rd (6-0)
• Approved preliminary plat for The Crossings @ 114; Phase 2 (6-0)
• Approved final plat for Spencers Crossing; Phase 2 (6-0)
• Tabled final plat for Cottage Walk; Phase 1 due to WasteWater comments
• Variance for side setback at 7709 Shoreline Blvd failed due to lack of motion
• Rezone from R2 to R6 for parcel #805-10769-000 withdrawn by applicant
• Approved August 5th 2025 meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss several ordinances and resolutions including public safety plans, zoning changes, and city contracts. The body is deciding on funding for street improvements and the purchase of equipment for fire and police services.

• Resolution No. 69: $600,000 for Downtown Overlay expenditure with Cranford Construction
• Resolution No. 70: $45,000 contract with Barker Excavation for a new fire training facility
• Resolution No. 71: Up to $55,000 for police pass through evidence lockers from AADS Office Solutions
• Ordinance No. 45: Rezoning 709 Yuma Street from R2 Single Family to C3 Service Commercial
• Ordinance No. 41: Extension of exclusive ambulance service franchise for Pafford Medical Services, Inc.

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will convene at 3:30 pm in Council Chambers (410 River Street) to approve minutes, hear financial reports, and receive updates from the Event Center and Exit 114 property development. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

City Council Meetings

The Personnel, Health & Safety committee will meet to review a safety plan and a proposed ordinance regarding employees or related parties performing work for the city.

• Approval of Safety Plan
• Ordinance allowing employees or related parties to do work for the city

The Personnel, Health & Safety Meeting resulted in the approval of a revised Safety Plan and an ordinance regarding employees or related parties doing work for the city. The council also approved the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting.

• Approved July 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved revised Safety Plan
• Approved ordinance allowing employees or related parties to do work for the city

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting, review June 2025 financials and the 2024 Benton Utilities audit, and discuss renewal of a Community Development block grant. The committee will also choose vendors for a fire training site preparation RFP and police lockers RFP, revise Rivercenter membership pricing, and accept a $1.2 million EPA grant for the Benton Saline River Greenway Phase 2.

• Approve July 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review June 2025 financials and 2024 Benton Utilities audit
• Accept $1.2 million EPA Climate Pollution Reduction grant for Benton Saline River Greenway Phase 2
• Choose vendor for Fire Training Site Preparation RFP
• Choose vendor for Police Lockers RFP

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will review minutes from the July 2025 meeting and receive updates from the A&P and P&Z committees. Items include a bid for dirt work on an RV park at exit 114 and proposed rezoning and conditional use for multi-family housing at a specific parcel.

• Bid for dirt work on RV park at exit 114
• Ordinance to rezone 709 Yuma from R2 to C3
• Conditional use permit for multi-family housing at parcel #805-17717-001

The committee approved the July 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed a new bid process for dirt work at the Exit 114 RV park and reviewed two planning and zoning requests for a plumbing company and multifamily duplexes.

• Approved July 2025 minutes

City Council Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to discuss a new ordinance regarding an ambulance service agreement. The committee will also review the June 2025 DRC Monthly Report.

• Ordinance for Ambulance Service Agreement
• Review of June 2025 DRC Monthly Report

The council approved a service agreement with Pafford for ambulance services, which Mayor Farmer stated is a consistent agreement used by all municipalities in the county. The council also approved the minutes from the July 15th meeting.

• Approved ambulance service agreement with Pafford
• Approved July 15th meeting minutes

Community Services

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustments will meet to consider several land-use requests. The body will review variances for setbacks and sidewalks, a rezoning request, and a site plan.

• Variance requests for 1505/1507 Longview, 7709 Shoreline Blvd, and #32-#37 @ The Woodland Villas
• Conditional Use for Multi Family at #805-17717-001
• Rezone from R2 to C3 at 709 Yuma
• Site Plan for 2150 Congo Rd
• Final Plat for Mary Kay Place; Phase 2

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will hold its regular meeting on August 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Benton Utilities Electric Department. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the July 7 meeting, departmental reports, and new business items such as an AI policy discussion and a bid approval for the Alcoa substation upgrade.

• Bid approval for Alcoa Substation Upgrade
• AI Policy discussion
• June Financials report by Jimmy Garrett
• Safety/Personnel Update by Terrie Sossamon
• Wastewater EQ Basin Discussion by Greg Becker

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on July 28, 2025, to consider several resolutions, including a $1,300 payment for a permanent easement related to the Congo Road/Shenandoah Road roundabout project and multiple certified liens against properties for incurred city expenses. The council will also discuss naming the Interstate 30 West Bound Bridge at the Saline River the “Paul Baker Memorial Bridge” and authorize contracts for school resource officers and park facility agreements.

• $1,300 payment to Circle K Stores, Inc. for Congo Road/Shenandoah Road roundabout easement
• Certified liens requested for properties at 313 E. North Street, 706 Crestwood Drive, 1402 Dixie Street, 2317 Wright Avenue, 2737 Ranchwood Drive, and 17939 I-30 South
• Resolution to name Interstate 30 West Bound Bridge at Saline River the “Paul Baker Memorial Bridge”
• Contract with Benton School District for nine school resource officers
• Agreements with Benton School District for high school swim team at Riverside Park and tennis team at Tyndall Park

The City Council approved a contract for nine school resource officers and authorized several property liens for city expenses. The council also approved a $1,300 easement payment for a roundabout project and named a bridge in honor of Paul Baker.

• Approved $1,300 payment to Circle K for Congo Road/Shenandoah Road roundabout easement (10-0)
• Approved naming the I-30 West Bound Bridge at the Saline River the 'Paul Baker Memorial Bridge' (10-0)
• Approved recognition of the Arkansas 250 Commission (10-0)
• Approved certified liens against properties at 313 E North St, 706 Crestwood Dr, 1402 Dixie St, 2317 Wright Ave, and 2737 Ranchwood Dr (10-0 each)
• Approved contract with Benton School District for nine school resource officers (10-0)
• Approved sale of surplus 2016 Dodge Charger police vehicle at auction (10-0)
• Approved 2025 budget amendment for midyear line item shifts (10-0)
• Approved use of Federal-Aid CPRG Green Networks and Surface Transportation Block Grant funds for Parks Department (10-0)

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet to approve minutes from the June 10 meeting, hear a recap of recent state legislation affecting city operations, and discuss property condemnations and liens for remediation. The council will also review the June 2025 Development Review Commission monthly report.

• Approval of June 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Recap of state legislation affecting city operations
• Condemnations/liens for remediation at 313 E. North Street, 706 Crestwood Drive, 2737 Ranchwood Drive, 2317 Wright Ave., 17939 I-30, 1402/1406 Dixie St., and 2018 Congo Rd.
• Review of June 2025 DRC Monthly Report

City Council Meetings

The Parks Committee will meet to discuss membership pricing for the River Center. The body will also review agreements with Benton High School regarding tennis and swim facilities.

• River Center membership pricing
• BHS Tennis Agreement
• BHS Swim Agreement

The Parks Committee approved a $10 increase for adult, family, and youth memberships at the River Center. The committee also approved annual facility-use agreements with Benton High School for tennis and swimming.

• Approved May 13, 2025, minutes
• Approved $10.00 increase for adult, family, and youth River Center memberships
• Approved annual BHS Tennis Agreement for use of Tyndall Park courts
• Approved annual BHS Swim Agreement for $1,000

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee will meet to discuss project updates and a resolution regarding the naming of a bridge. The meeting follows the Parks and Community Development session.

• Resolution to request naming of a bridge (Paul Baker)

City Council Meetings

The Personnel, Health & Safety Meeting will address updates to employee retirement and pension plans. The body will consider two ordinances regarding non-uniformed employees and the current pension plan.

• Ordinance regarding retirement eligible non-uniformed employees
• Ordinance to amend current pension plan

City Council Meetings

The Finance Committee will review May and June 2025 financials and a mid-year true-up. The body will consider resolutions regarding police equipment, school resource officer contracts, and several grant applications.

• Radio upgrade for Police & Animal
• Benton School District SRO contract
• Edward Byrne grant application
• Metroplan Surface Transportation grant application
• Metroplan Carbon Pollution Reduction grant application

City Council Meetings

The Commissions Committee will meet to review reports from the PUC and Planning and Zoning. The body will consider an ordinance to rezone a property on Edison Avenue.

• Proposed rezoning of 3122 Edison Avenue from C1 Neighborhood Commercial to R5 Multi Family District

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission will meet at 3:30 pm in Council Chambers at Benton City Hall to approve the June meeting minutes, receive financial reports, and hear updates from the Benton Event Center and Exit 114 property development.

• Approve minutes from June 2025 meeting
• Review profit and loss reports and bank balances
• Receive report on Exit 114 property development
• Hear update on Benton Event Center operations

Community Services

The Board of Adjustments and Planning Commission will meet to consider variance requests and site plans. The body will review a rezoning request for 3122 Edison Ave and several plat approvals.

• Variance requests for 2042 Neeley Street, 1505/1507 Longview, 1417 Gum Street, and Bird Street
• Rezone request from C1 to R5 for 3122 Edison Ave
• Final Plat for Heritage Landing
• Preliminary Plats for Dobbs Creek and #1 The Crossing
• Updated Preliminary Plat for Panther Cove

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss several ordinances including a property tax levy and joining the Arkansas Public Employees’ Retirement System. The body is also considering the condemnation of three properties and a rezoning request for a multi-family district.

• Ordinance No. 31 of 2025: Levying a tax on real and personal property for the City General and Fireman’s Pension and Relief Fund
• Ordinance No. 32 of 2025: Rezoning Parcel 805-20528-001 from Heavy Industrial to R5 Multi Family District
• Resolutions to condemn and raze structures at 1600 Gum Street, 2319 Kelso Circle, and 2502 Gattin Road
• Ordinance No. 34 of 2025: Waiving competitive bidding for replacement control valves at the water treatment plant
• Ordinance No. 35 of 2025: Vacating and closing a portion of Hester Drive

The City Council voted to join the Arkansas Public Employees’ Retirement System and approved several property condemnations. The council also authorized grant applications for animal services and transportation, and approved a rezoning request for multi-family housing.

• Adopted Ordinance 30 of 2025 to join the Arkansas Public Employees’ Retirement System (9-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted Resolution 44 of 2025 to apply for a ~$480,000 animal services grant (9-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted Resolutions 45, 46, and 47 of 2025 to condemn and raze structures at 1600 Gum Street, 2319 Kelso Circle, and 2502 Gattin Road (8-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted Resolution 48 of 2025 to place a certified lien against 120 North Conrad Street (8-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 31 of 2025 levying taxes for City General and Fireman’s Pension and Relief Fund (8-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted Resolution 49 of 2025 to use Federal-Aid Transportation Alternatives Program funds for Phase 1 (8-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 32 of 2025 rezoning Parcel 805-20528-001 from Heavy Industrial to R5 Multi Family District (8-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 33 of 2025 clarifying storm water fee assessments (8-0, 2 absent)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Advertising and Promotion Commission will meet to review financial reports and discuss the development of the Exit 114 property. The body is scheduled to hold a second reading and vote regarding funding for Old Fashioned Day.

• Vote on funding for Old Fashioned Day
• Report on the development of Exit 114 Property
• Discussion of BEC Lighting System
• Financial reports including Profit and Loss and Bank Balances

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee will meet to consider an ordinance regarding the southern portion of Hester Street. The body will also discuss a resolution to apply for a grant for Northshore Drive.

• Ordinance for Hester Street abandonment (southern portion)
• Resolution to apply for STBG grant for Northshore Drive design and engineering

The Streets/Drainage committee approved the abandonment of Hester Street and the STBG Grant for design and engineering of the Northshore Drive project. The committee also approved the minutes from the May 13th meeting.

• Approved May 13th meeting minutes
• Approved Ordinance for Hester Street abandonment
• Approved STBG Grant for Northshore Drive design and engineering

City Council Meetings

The Community Services Committee will meet to discuss code compliance and review a monthly report. The body is considering a lien for remediation at a specific property address.

• Lien for remediation at 120 N. Conrad
• Review of March 2025 DRC Monthly Report
• Recap of state legislation affecting city operations

The Community Services committee approved a Lien for Remediation for the property at 120 N. Conrad. The action follows a cleanup effort where the city provided five dumpsters at a cost of $2,050.78.

• Approved May 13th minutes
• Approved Lien for Remediation for 120 N. Conrad ($2,050.78 cost)

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a Personnel, Health & Safety Meeting to establish a quorum, recognize attendees, and approve minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting. They will also review a proposed Safety Plan for future approval and consider a resolution to set a start date for APERS retirement for non-uniformed employees.

• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2025 meeting
• Distribution of proposed Safety Plan for approval in July
• Resolution approving start date for APERS retirement for non-uniformed employees

The committee voted to move a resolution to the full council to start the Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System (APERS) for non-uniformed employees on July 28th. The committee also reviewed a proposed updated Safety Plan, which will be brought back for approval in July.

• Approved motion to move APERS retirement resolution to full council
• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Tabled Safety Plan approval until July

City Council Meetings

The Finance Committee will review April and May 2025 financials and the Property Tax Millage Annual Ordinance. The body will also consider a resolution to accept a grant for the Benton Saline River Greenway Ph. 1.

• Property Tax Millage Annual Ordinance
• Resolution accepting grant for Benton Saline River Greenway Ph. 1 (Job Number 061912)
• April 2025 Benton Utilities financials
• May 2025 financials

The committee approved the annual property tax millage resolution and accepted a grant for the Saline River Greenway. CFO Mandy Spicer presented May 2025 financials, noting an increase in sales taxes and property tax revenue.

• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved annual property tax millage of 2.8 mills for City General Fund and 1 mill for Fireman’s Pension and Relief Fund
• Approved resolution to accept TAP grant up to $400,000 for Saline River Greenway Phase 1

Animal Control

The Benton Animal Services Committee will meet on June 9, 2025, immediately after the Personnel Committee meeting, to discuss grant funding for animal shelters, vote on a grant resolution, and receive an update on the new shelter. The meeting will also include routine procedural items such as approving minutes and adjourning.

• Presentation of grant funding for animal shelters
• Vote on Grant Resolution for shelter funding
• Update on new Shelter construction progress

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss an ordinance to clarify stormwater fee assessments and a request to waive competitive bidding for water treatment plant control valves. The body will also consider a rezoning request and three property condemnations.

• Ordinance to amend Ordinance No. 40 of 2023 regarding storm water fees
• Purchase of replacement control valves for the water treatment plant
• Rezoning of Parcel 805-20528-001 from Heavy Industrial to R5 Multi Family District
• Condemnation of 1600 Gum Street
• Condemnation of 2319 Kelso Circle and 2502 Gattin Road

The Commissions Committee approved the May 2025 minutes. The committee reviewed proposals regarding stormwater fee assessments, a waiver for competitive bidding on a water treatment valve, a rezoning request for a duplex on Normandy Street, and three property condemnations.

• Approved May 2025 minutes
• Discussed ordinance to remove the one-charge-per-physical-address limit for stormwater fees
• Discussed ordinance to waive competitive bidding for a water treatment replacement valve
• Discussed rezoning of property on Normandy Street from Heavy Industrial to R 5 Multi Family District for a duplex
• Discussed condemnations for 1600 Gum Street, 2319 Kelso Circle, and 2502 Gattin Road

Community Services

The board will review a variance request for 2042 Neeley Street and a rezoning proposal for Normandy Street. Members will also discuss recently passed legislation during a legislative round table.

• Variance for setbacks at 2042 Neeley Street
• Rezone Normandy Street from HI to R5

The commission approved a request to rezone a property from heavy industrial to a multi-family district. A variance request for a property on Neeley Street was tabled. The City Council will provide final approval for the rezone later this month.

• Approved minutes of May 6th, 2025 meeting
• Tabled variance request for accessory building at 2042 Neeley Street
• Approved rezone of property #805-20528-001 from HI to R5 (8-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will hold its regular meeting to receive departmental reports, including safety updates and April financials, and to discuss new business items such as the 2024 audit and a bid for Buc-ee’s line relocation. The commission will also consider waiving competitive bidding for control valves at the water plant and discuss talking points related to AMPA-D.C.

• 2024 Audit review by Jimmy Garrett
• Buc-ee’s Line Relocation Bid by Anna Pesaresi
• Waiving Competitive Bidding for Control Valves at Water Plant by Jon DeJarnatt
• Discussion on AMPA-D.C. Talking Points by Todd Pedersen

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss several property rezonings and the condemnation of a structure at 18623 I-30. The body is also considering a management agreement for the Benton Senior Center and updates to park usage rates.

• Agreement with Carelink for Benton Senior Center management at $3,750 monthly
• Parks budget increase of $145,000 for Tyndall Park light loan payment
• Rezoning of 206 Third Street from R2 Single Family to R5 Multi Family
• Rezoning of 809 Pearl Street from C2 General Commercial to R2 Single Family
• Condemnation and razing of structure at 18623 I-30

The City Council approved several resolutions including the condemnation of a structure and a $145,000 payment to finalize Tyndall Park lighting. The council also increased usage rates at Riverside Park and the Gene Moss building and approved three rezoning ordinances.

• Approved condemnation of structure at 18623 1-30 (9-0-1)
• Approved certified lien against property at 613 Houston Drive (9-0-1)
• Approved agreement with Carelink for Benton Senior Center management (9-0-1)
• Approved $145,000 budget increase for final Tyndall Park light payment (9-0-1)
• Approved sale of two surplus Dodge Chargers at auction (9-0-1)
• Approved acceptance of donated K9 dog 'Cash' for police department (9-0-1)
• Approved $1 increase for Riverside Park day passes to $5 (9-0-1)
• Approved rezoning of 206 Third Street from R2 to R5 (9-0-1)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will meet to approve minutes, review financial reports, and hold a first reading on funding for Old Fashioned Day. Reports from the Benton Event Center and the Exit 114 property development will also be presented.

• Old Fashioned Day funding first reading
• Profit and Loss Reports by Jordan Woolbright
• Bank Balances and Collections Report by Mandy Spicer
• Report on Exit 114 property development by Bill Eldridge
• Benton Event Center report by Nikki Chumley

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee will meet to consider resolutions regarding the vacation of an alley and the abandonment of Hester Street. The body will also discuss applying for a Federal TAP Grant for Fourth Street.

• Resolution to vacate alley in the Allen Addition
• Resolution to petition for Hester Street abandonment
• Resolution to apply for Federal TAP Grant for Fourth Street

The Streets/Drainage Committee approved a resolution to vacate an alley in the Allen Addition and a resolution to apply for a federal TAP grant for sidewalks. A request to abandon a portion of Hester Street was continued pending a public hearing.

• Approved resolution to vacate the alley in the Allen Addition (Motion carried)
• Approved resolution to apply for Federal TAP Grant for 4th Street sidewalks (Motion carried)
• Continued Hester Street abandonment request pending a public hearing

City Council Meetings

The Parks Committee is meeting to discuss fee structures for two city facilities. The body will review rental and usage fees for the River Center and the Gene Moss Building.

• River Center fees
• Gene Moss Building rental fees

The Parks Committee approved increasing day pass fees at the River Center and daily rental fees for the Gene Moss Building. Both changes are scheduled to be implemented on August 1, 2025.

• Approved April 15, 2025, minutes
• Approved River Center youth and adult day pass fee increase from $4.00 to $5.00
• Approved Gene Moss Building daily rental fee increase from $100.00 to $150.00

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on May 13, 2025, to conduct routine procedural items and review condemnations and liens for four properties. The meeting follows the Parks and Streets Committees and includes a report from the Development Review Commission (DRC) and an update on a property at 3001 Primrose.

• Lien for remediation at 613 Houston Drive
• Condemnation of 2319 Kelso Circle
• Condemnation of 2502 Gattin Road
• Condemnation of 1600 Gum Street
• DRC Monthly Report – March 2025 (for review)

The committee approved moving forward with condemnation resolutions for four properties. Additionally, the committee voted to remove 3001 Primrose from the monthly update list after the owners met requirements.

• Approved moving resolutions for 613 Houston, 2319 Kelso Circle, 2502 Gattin Road, and 1600 Gum Street to full council
• Approved removal of 3001 Primrose from the monthly update list
• Approved April 15th minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a Personnel, Health & Safety meeting to establish a quorum, approve prior meeting minutes, and vote on a resolution setting the start date for APERS retirement benefits for non-uniformed employees. The meeting is procedural with one substantive item.

• Resolution approving APERS retirement start date for non-uniformed employees

The council approved a resolution to move 88 non-uniformed employees into the Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System (APERS) starting July 28, 2025. The move includes an amendment allowing elected officials to opt in or out of the system.

• Approved minutes from March 10, 2025 meeting
• Approved amendment to resolution giving elected officials the option to join APERS
• Approved resolution to join APERS for non-uniformed employees starting July 28, 2025

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the prior month, review Benton Utilities’ March 2025 financials, discuss a contract for the Benton Senior Center, amend the Parks budget to pay off a light loan early, and handle several resolutions including surplus police vehicles, awards of duty items, and a K-9 donation.

• Approve April 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review Benton Utilities March 2025 financials
• Amend Parks budget for early payoff of light loan
• Approve resolution awarding Curtis Wood duty weapon and badge
• Accept donation of K-9 for Police Department

The Finance Committee approved a one-year contract renewal for the Benton Senior Center and a budget amendment to pay off a Parks department light loan. The committee also authorized the auction of two surplus police vehicles and accepted the donation of a K-9 dog.

• Approved one-year contract renewal for CareLink to manage Benton Senior Center at $3,750 per month
• Approved Parks budget amendment to make final payment on Tyndall Softball field lights loan
• Approved auction of two surplus police vehicles (2015 and 2013 Dodge Chargers)
• Approved awarding duty weapon and badge to Curtis Wood for 30 years of service
• Approved awarding wooden bench to Cissy Brown for 46 years of service
• Approved acceptance of donated 3-year-old Belgian Malinois K-9 named Cash
• Approved April 14, 2025 meeting minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a public meeting to approve minutes from April 2025 and consider several zoning changes proposed by the Planning & Zoning Commission. The council will also ratify the appointment of Gary Ferrell as Public Utilities Commissioner. No new contracts or fee changes are listed.

• Rezone 206 Third Street from R2 to R5 (multi-family housing)
• Rezone 809 Pearl Street from C2 to R2 (single-family housing)
• Rezone parcels 800-07502-005, 800-07502-004, 800-07502-003 from C3 to R2 (single-family housing)
• Ratify appointment of Gary Ferrell as Public Utilities Commissioner
• Condemnation of 18623 I-30 (Ward 5) listed for discussion

The committee approved the April 2025 minutes. Members discussed a PUC appointment and three rezoning requests for residential development, including duplexes and townhouses. No final votes on the rezoning ordinances were recorded.

• Approved April 2025 minutes
• Discussed appointment of Gary Ferrell as PUC commissioner to replace Brad Johnson
• Discussed rezoning 206 Third Street from R2 to R5 for two duplexes
• Discussed rezoning 809 Pearl Street from C2 to R2 for houses
• Discussed rezoning parcels 800-07502-005, 800-07502-004, and 800-07502-003 from C3 to R2 for 18 townhouses
• Discussed condemnation of 18623 I-30

Community Services

The Board of Adjustments and Planning Commission will consider variance and rezoning requests for several properties. The body will also review site plans and preliminary plats for residential and business developments.

• Variance and rezone (C2 to R2) for 809 Pearl Street
• Rezone (R2 to R5) for 206 Third Street
• Rezone (C3 to R2) and preliminary plat for attached housing at Browning & Winchester
• Preliminary plats for 521 Third Street and the Business Park
• Updated site plan for David’s Burgers regarding secondary access

The board approved several rezoning requests and preliminary plats for residential and commercial developments. One preliminary plat for a subdivision at Dobbs Creek failed due to a lack of a motion. Three of the approved rezones require final City Council approval.

• Approved lot size variance for 809 Pearl Street (8-0)
• Approved rezone from C2 to R2 for 809 Pearl Street (8-0)
• Approved 36-unit multi-family site plan on Rolla Road (8-0)
• Approved rezone from R2 to R5 for 206 Third Street (6-2)
• Approved rezone from C3 to R2 at Browning & Winchester (8-0)
• Approved 15-lot preliminary plat for attached housing at Browning & Winchester (8-0)
• Approved 5-lot preliminary plat for attached housing at 521 Third Street (8-0)
• Approved commercial preliminary plat for Business Park at 21286 I-30 (8-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will meet to review March financials and discuss electric rates. The body will also consider the appointment of a commissioner to fill a vacancy and the approval of a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).

• Update on electric rates
• Appointment of Commissioner to fill vacancy
• Discussion and potential approval of COLA
• Capacity auction discussion
• Review of March financials

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on April 28, 2025, to decide on utility rate restructuring, property annexations, condemnations, and contracts. The meeting includes a public hearing on utility rates and votes on ordinances and resolutions affecting zoning, property sales, and city services.

• Public hearing on utility rate restructure at 5:15 PM
• Annexation of properties at 7120 Alcoa Road and 1049 Elenore Road into Ward 1
• Condemnation and razing of property at 4106 Faye Circle
• Sale of surplus property to Wildman Arms
• Contract with Heritage Engineering for fire training facility design ($11,500) using cash on hand

The City Council approved the annexation of properties on Alcoa Road, Elenore Road, and Hwy 5 North. The council also authorized funding for the Saline River Greenway and a new fire training facility, and approved the condemnation of a structure on Faye Circle.

• Adopted Ordinance 20 of 2025 to annex property at 7120 Alcoa Road and 1049 Elenore Road (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 22 of 2025 to condemn structure at 4106 Faye Circle (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 25 of 2025 to sell surplus night scopes and sniper rifles to Wildman Arms for $5,000 (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 28 of 2025 for $11,500 fire training facility engineering contract (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 29 of 2025 to apply for $250,000 grant for Sunset Lake lighting (10-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 21 of 2025 to annex 1514 and 1526 Hwy 5 North as C3 service commercial (10-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 22 of 2025 to rezone 1601 Hudson Street from R2 to R7 multi-family residential (9-1)
• Adopted Resolution 21 of 2025 for pole attachment agreement with UPN (10-0)

City Council Meetings

The Benton Parks Committee will meet to review a grant application for the Great Strides/Trail for Life project and discuss the Saline River Greenway Phase 1 resolution. The committee will also receive an overview of ongoing parks projects.

• Great Strides/Trail for Life Grant Application review
• Saline River Greenway Phase 1 Resolution discussion
• Parks Project Overview presentation

The Parks Committee approved a grant application for trail lighting at Sunset Lake and a resolution for the Saline River Greenway Phase 1. The committee also reviewed the status of several ongoing grant-funded projects and design timelines.

• Approved February 11, 2025, minutes
• Approved application for $250,000 Great Strides/Trail for Life Grant for Sunset Lake trail lights
• Approved Saline River Greenway Ph. 1 Resolution

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet to approve minutes from a prior meeting and conduct new business, including a vote on annexing two properties and placing liens on four homes for code compliance remediation. The council will also review the March 2025 Development Review Commission report and receive an update on a property at 3001 Primrose.

• Annexation vote for 7120 Alcoa Rd and 1049 Elenore Rd
• Liens for remediation at 2309 W Lakeview, 1908 W Lakeview, 4121 Brandy Dr, and 18623 I-30 S
• Review of March 2025 DRC Monthly Report
• Update on 3001 Primrose

City Council Meetings

The Finance Committee will review February 2025 financials for Benton Utilities and the city. The body is discussing an electrical power cost adjustment rate and a contract for fire training site engineering.

• Benton Utilities Electrical Power Cost Adjustment Rate
• Fire training site engineering contract
• Police surplus of assets including rifles and Segways
• Saline County Greenway grant acceptance
• February 2025 Benton Utilities financials

The Finance Committee approved a $400,000 grant for the Saline River Greenway Phase 4 and an $11,500 engineering contract for a fire training site. The committee also authorized the police department to trade in rifles and scopes and surplus two segways.

• Approved $11,500 contract with Heritage Engineering, PLLC for Fire Training Facility services (Unanimous)
• Approved trade-in of 4 scopes and 2 rifles to Wildman Arms for credit (Unanimous)
• Approved surpulsing of two police segways (Unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $400,000 grant for Saline River Greenway Phase 4 construction (Unanimous)
• Approved March 10, 2025 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will review requests to rezone two properties and annex new territory into the city. The body will also consider a waiver for competitive bidding to purchase a utility pump and a property condemnation.

• Purchase of Flygt 3153 20 HP, 3 phase pump with installation via competitive bidding waiver
• Annexation of territory to the City of Benton
• Rezoning of 1601 Hudson Street from R2 Single Family to R7 Multi Family Residential
• Rezoning of 1712 Thomas Road from R2 Single Family to C3 Service Commercial
• Condemnation of 4106 Faye Circle (Ward 4)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will meet to approve minutes from the March meeting, review financial reports, and hold second readings and votes on funding requests for the Saline County Comic Expo and Saline River Canoe Inc. The commission will also hear reports on the Benton Event Center and the development of the Exit 114 property.

• Saline County Comic Expo – 2nd Reading and Vote
• Saline River Canoe Inc. – 2nd Reading and Vote
• Report from Benton Event Center – Nikki Chumley
• Report on the Development of Exit 114 Property – Bill Eldridge

City Meeting Calendar

The commission will discuss utility operations, including power supply and prepay policies. Members will review bids for the Alcoa Substation breaker and roof repairs, as well as a request to waive bidding for a pump at the Caldwell Lift Station.

• Request to waive bidding for Caldwell Lift Station 3rd Pump
• Alcoa Substation Breaker bid
• Roof bids
• Request to order bucket truck
• Proration of Cost-of-Service Fees

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on March 17, 2025, to consider resolutions condemning two unsafe structures at 1602 Harmon Drive and 811 Ward Drive, authorize a lease for a downtown farmer’s market, and approve new electrical utility rates. The council will also vote on budget amendments for road and safety projects, including a $70,792 roundabout improvement and a $56,684 public safety cost split with the school district.

• Condemn and raze unsafe structures at 1602 Harmon Drive and 811 Ward Drive
• Lease downtown property to Henry Brown Realty for a farmer’s market
• Approve $70,792 budget amendment for Congo Shenandoah Roundabout Project
• Approve $56,684 budget amendment for bi-directional amplifier with Benton School District
• Establish new electrical utility rates (repealing 2022 rates) at 2nd reading

The council conducted a second reading of Ordinance 15 of 2025 to restructure electrical rates. The proposal replaces a yearly CPI plus 1% increase with a monthly power cost adjustment based on actual costs. No vote was taken during this meeting.

• Held public hearing for Ordinance 15 of 2025 (second reading)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising and Promotion Commission will meet to approve minutes from February, review financial reports, and hold second readings and votes on funding requests from the Saline County Art League and The Royal Players. The group will also hear first readings for Saline County Comic Con and Saline River Canoe Inc. and receive updates on the Benton Event Center and Exit 114 property development.

• Second reading and vote on Saline County Art League funding request
• Second reading and vote on The Royal Players funding request
• First reading for Saline County Comic Con funding request
• First reading for Saline River Canoe Inc. funding request
• Update on Exit 114 property development

City Meeting Calendar

The Streets and Drainage Committee will meet to consider a resolution regarding the 2nd Street bridge. The body will also review a project update list.

• Proposed resolution to dedicate the 2nd street bridge in honor of CPL Cario Fuller, Jr
• Project Update List

The committee approved the February 11, 2025, meeting minutes. Members also voted to dedicate the 2nd Street Bridge in honor of CPL Cario Fuller, Jr. Discussion was held regarding speed humps, side street parking, and new overlays.

• Approved February 11, 2025, meeting minutes
• Approved resolution to dedicate 2nd Street Bridge to CPL Cario Fuller, Jr.

City Council Meetings

The Community Services committee will discuss a contract for a downtown farmer's market lease and an amendment to subdivision regulations. The body will also address a property condemnation and review a monthly report from the DRC.

• Proposed contract with John Young for a downtown farmer's market lease
• Proposed amendment to Ord 56 of 2024 to establish a 'Dig Once' policy
• Condemnation of 4106 Faye Street
• Update on 3001 Primrose Drive
• Review of February 2025 DRC Monthly Report

The Council approved a five-year lease extension for the Downtown Benton Farmer's Market. A motion to condemn the property at 4106 Faye Street was also approved. The Council received a progress update on the property at 3001 Primrose Drive.

• Approved 5-year lease extension with John Young for Farmer's Market real property
• Approved condemnation of 4106 Faye Street
• Approved February 11th minutes

Animal Control

The Benton Animal Services Committee will convene immediately after the Finance Meeting on March 10, 2025, at Benton City Hall. The agenda includes routine procedural items, a review of a cooperation agreement with the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, discussion of the city’s vicious animal ordinance, and an update on the new animal shelter project.

• Review cooperation agreement with Saline County Sheriff’s Office
• Discuss Section 11 vicious animal policy
• Receive update on new shelter project

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet to approve minutes from the prior meeting, discuss ordinances, and update the city’s wage structure. Two personnel-related items are on the agenda: adjusting full-time Parks employees to part-time status and revising the city’s overall wage structure.

• Ordinance adding full-time Parks employees to work part-time
• Updating the City of Benton Wage Structure

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the February 10 meeting, review January 2025 financials for Benton Utilities, and hear a presentation on an electrical power cost adjustment rate. The committee will also discuss a settlement offer for the Congo/Shenandoah roundabout and a partnership with the Benton School District for an antenna installation at a new school.

• Review of January 2025 Benton Utilities financials
• Presentation on Benton Utilities electrical power cost adjustment rate
• Discussion of Congo/Shenandoah roundabout settlement offer
• Partnership with Benton School District for antenna installation at new school

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a public meeting to approve minutes from February 2025 and vote on a rezoning ordinance for 704 Bird Street. Two condemnations from February’s Community Services report will also be discussed.

• Rezoning 704 Bird Street from R7 Multi Family Residential to R8 Multi Family Residential
• Condemnation of 1602 Davis Street
• Condemnation of 811 Ward Street

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will meet to discuss departmental reports and financial updates. The body will review bids for tree trimming and the Benton Parkway Sewer Project, and discuss the purchase of a water line from Southwest (Water Users).

• Benton Parkway Sewer Project bid
• Purchase of water line from Southwest (Water Users)
• Tree trimming bid
• Sewer rate discussion request from customer Todd Pedersen
• January financials report

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will decide on several contracts, ordinances, and budget amendments, including bulletproof glass for the district court, a new fire training facility, and rezoning requests. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes and committee reports.

• $44,307 contract with Elrod Glass for bulletproof glass at Benton District Court
• $463,045 contract with Lonestar Tactical Buildings for a new fire training facility
• Rezoning 1205 & 1207 Highway 35 from AG to R5 Multi Family District
• Rezoning 219 Kenwood Road from R2 Single Family to C1 Neighborhood Commercial
• $539,828 contract with H.W. Tucker for South Shoreline Blvd drainage improvements

The City Council approved contracts for a new fire training facility and court record digitization. They also adopted new restrictions on right-of-way solicitors and approved multiple rezoning and annexation ordinances.

• Adopted Ordinance 8 of 2025 restricting right-of-way canvassers and solicitors (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 8 of 2025 accepting a federal grant for Congo Widening Project Design (9-0)
• Approved $129,977 contract with Preferred Office Technologies for court record digitization (9-0)
• Approved $463,045 contract with Lonestar Tactical Buildings for fire training facility (9-0)
• Approved $35,651.60 payment for Saline County District Court Judge’s 2025 salary (9-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 9 of 2025 setting 2025 Parks and Recreation stage rental rates (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 1205 and 1207 Highway 35 to R5 Multi Family District (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 219 Kenwood Road to C1 Neighborhood Commercial (9-0)

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Advertising and Promotion Commission will review financial reports and 2025 budgets. The body will consider funding requests for local organizations and receive updates on the Exit 114 property development.

• Vote on funding for Saline County Fair Association
• First reading of funding for Saline County Art League
• First reading of funding for The Royal Players
• Review of 2025 Budgets
• Development report on Exit 114 Property

City Council Meetings

The Benton Parks Committee will meet on February 11, 2025, immediately after the Street/Drainage Committee meeting. The committee will review and approve the minutes of the previous meeting, discuss stage rental pricing, and address any other items before adjourning.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of stage rental pricing

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Streets and Drainage Committee will meet on February 11, 2025, to approve the low bid for the S Shoreline project. The meeting follows standard procedural items including call to order, recognition of attendees, and approval of minutes.

• Approval of low bid for S Shoreline project

The council accepted the most qualified bid from HW Tucker for drainage improvements on S Shoreline and approved the appropriation of funds for the project. The meeting also included a project update list and the introduction of Assistant Director Doyle Stroud.

• Approved minutes from September Meeting
• Accepted HW Tucker bid for S Shoreline drainage improvements
• Approved appropriation of funds for S Shoreline drainage project

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet on February 11, 2025, to consider a proposed amendment to Ordinance 35 of 2022, which would restrict right-of-way canvassers and solicitors at the intersection of Military Road and North East Street. The council will also review condemnations for two properties and receive updates on a local address and a monthly report.

• Proposed amendment to Ordinance 35 of 2022 for Military Road and North East Street right-of-way restrictions
• Condemnation of 811 Ward Dr
• Condemnation of 1602 Harmon Dr
• Update on 3001 Primrose Drive
• Review of January 2025 DRC Monthly Report

City Council Meetings

The Benton Commissions Committee will review ordinances to waive competitive bidding for a $61,600 utility base station purchase and to establish new electrical rates effective June 2025. The meeting also includes zoning changes for parcels along S. Main Street and Highway 35, and a potential annexation.

• Waive competitive bidding to purchase M400B base station for $61,600 for Benton Utilities
• Establish new electrical rates for customers, effective June 1, 2025
• Rezone 219 Kenwood Road from R2 to C1 (neighborhood commercial)
• Rezone 1205 and 1207 Highway 35 from AG to R5 (multi-family housing)
• Consider annexation of certain territory to the City of Benton

The committee approved the January 2025 minutes. Members discussed several proposed ordinances regarding utility bidding, electrical rates, zoning changes, and annexation, but no votes were recorded for these items.

• Approved January 2025 minutes

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will hold a personnel meeting to approve minutes from the January 13 meeting and vote on revisions to the employee handbook. No major decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 13, 2025 meeting
• Revision to the Employee Handbook

The Personnel, Health & Safety committee approved changes to the Employee Handbook, specifically regarding the PTO policy. The revisions were recommended by HR lawyer Abtin Mehdizadegan to ensure consistency across all departments, including Fire and Police.

• Approved January 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved revisions to the Employee Handbook PTO policy (7-2)

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the January 13 meeting and vote on several bids, including utility financials, a fire training facility, court clerk digitization and bulletproof glass, and a proportionate share agreement. The committee will also consider grant acceptance for Congo Widening, a CD bid, and a change order for New City Hall.

• Approve December 2024 Benton Utilities financials
• Accept $X bid for Fire Training Facility
• Accept $Y bid for Court Clerk Digitization of Records
• Accept $Z bid for Court Clerk Bullet Proof glass
• Approve $A proportionate share annual agreement

The Finance Committee approved several construction and service contracts, including a new fire training facility and court record digitization. The committee also accepted a grant for the Congo widening project and selected a bank for new CDs.

• Approved $463,045 contract to Lonestar Tactical Buildings for a 3-story Fire Training Facility (Unanimous)
• Approved $129,977 contract to Preferred Office Technologies for Court Clerk record digitization (Unanimous)
• Approved $44,307 contract to Elrod Glass for bulletproof glass at the District Court Clerk counter (Unanimous)
• Approved 2025 proportionate share of state district court judge base salary at $35,651.60 (Unanimous)
• Approved ARDOT grant for Congo widening design phase, appropriating $400,000 revenue and $500,000 expenditure (Unanimous)
• Approved Gateway Bank (Bank B) for new 6-month and 12-month CDs (Unanimous)

Planning Commission Meetings

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the renaming of Dixie Street. The body will also review several preliminary plats, annexation requests, and zoning changes for specific properties.

• Public hearing on the renaming of Dixie Street
• Lot size minimum variance for 414 Short Street
• Preliminary plats for Heritage Homes and Northshore Village
• Rezone requests for 1205/1207 Highway 35 (AG to R5) and 219 Kenwood Rd (R2 to C2)
• Site plan for Riggs Outdoors at 20453 I-30

City Meeting Calendar

The commission will review and potentially approve new electric rates. Members will also discuss a customer request regarding sewer rates and the waiving of competitive bidding for a communications tower replacement.

• Review and approval of new electric rates
• Sewer rate discussion request from customer
• Waiving of competitive bidding for replacing communications tower
• Approval of new Share Board member

City Council Meetings

The City Council will discuss updating wastewater rates for senior citizens and revising city purchasing policies. The body is also deciding on two property rezonings and budget increases for parks projects.

• Rezoning 712 and 716 North Main Street from R2 Single Family to C1 Neighborhood Commercial
• Rezoning parcels #805-10100-000, #805-10096-000, and #805-10089-000 from R2 Single Family to C3 Service Commercial
• Budget increase of $400,000 for Greenway Phase One TAP grant and $774,662.38 for Cherry Demuth Campsite project
• Request for a certified lien against real property at 1407 Gray Street
• Authorization to purchase a 2024 Caterpillar skid steer for the Utilities Electric Department

The City Council approved a $1 million partial redemption of 2015 capital improvement bonds to reduce debt. Other actions included adjusting senior wastewater rates, updating purchasing policies, and rezoning properties on North Main Street. The council also authorized the sale of surplus police firearms and shotguns.

• Adopted Resolution 1 of 2025 establishing council meeting times and rules (10-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1 of 2025 reducing senior citizen wastewater rates to $25.70 (10-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2 of 2025 restricting solicitors at Military Road and Carpenter Street (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2 of 2025 to place a certified lien against 1407 Gray Street (10-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 3 of 2025 increasing purchasing policy limit to $30,000 (10-0)
• Adopted Resolutions 3 and 4 of 2025 to sell surplus police firearms and shotguns for trade-ins (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 5 of 2025 for a $1,000,000 partial redemption of 2015 revenue bonds (10-0)
• Adopted Resolution 6 of 2025 increasing Parks Budget by $1,174,662.38 in grant revenues (10-0)

City Meeting Calendar

The Benton Public Utilities Commission will meet to elect 2025 officers and review new electric rates. The body will also consider requests to waive competitive bidding for a Caterpillar skidsteer and discuss vehicle purchases.

• Review of new electric rates
• Request to waive competitive bidding for a Caterpillar skidsteer for the Electric Dept
• Purchase of vehicles for utilities
• Water annual maintenance contract
• Adjustment of policy manual regarding health care eligibility

City Council Meetings

The Parks Committee is meeting to discuss the 2025 price sheet and pricing for stage rentals. The session is focused on updating fee structures for park services.

• Review of 2025 Price Sheet
• Discussion of Stage Rental Pricing

The Parks Committee approved the 2025 price sheet for department programs, which included some fee increases and decreases. Stage rental pricing was tabled until the next meeting. The committee also discussed the Sunset Lake property and security at River Center.

• Approved November 11, 2024, minutes
• Approved 2025 Price Sheet
• Tabled Stage Rental Pricing

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will meet to establish a quorum and approve minutes from December 2024. New business includes a proposed amendment to restrict right-of-way canvassers and solicitors at the intersection of Military Road and North East Street, as well as a lien for property remediation at 1407 Gray Street. The council will also review the December 2024 Development Review Committee report and receive an update on a petition to rename Dixie Street.

• Proposed amendment to Ordinance 35 of 2022 restricting solicitors at Military Road and North East Street
• Lien for property remediation at 1407 Gray Street
• Review of December 2024 Development Review Committee report
• Update on petition to rename Dixie Street

City Council Meetings

The Personnel, Health & Safety committee will meet to discuss revisions to the Employee Handbook. The body will also review minutes from the September 9, 2024 meeting.

• Revision to the Employee Handbook

The committee approved the meeting minutes from September 2024. Members reviewed proposed red-lined changes to the Employee Handbook, which include a new definition for Catastrophic Leave. No final decision was made on the handbook revisions; members will review the documents for approval or further suggestions at the next meeting.

• Approved September 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Benton Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting, review November 2024 financials for Benton Utilities, discuss an early principal payment on a franchise bond, and consider revisions to bid procurement amounts. The committee will also review requests to trade firearms with two vendors and accept two grants for park projects, including a budget amendment.

• Approval of December 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review of November 2024 Benton Utilities financials
• Franchise bond early principal payment discussion
• Revision of bid procurement amounts
• Acceptance of Parks 50 grant and 2025 budget amendment for Saline River Greenway Phase 1 and Cherry Demuth Campsite projects

The Finance Committee approved several resolutions including a change to the city's bid procurement threshold and a $1M early principal payment on franchise bonds. The committee also approved police equipment trades and the acceptance of two parks grants totaling over $1.1M.

• Approved increasing bid procurement threshold from $20k to $30,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $1M early principal payment for 2015 Capital Improvement bonds (unanimous)
• Approved trade of 8 Glock 43X pistols for 6 Glock 48MOS (unanimous)
• Approved trade of 12 Beretta 1301 shotguns for 12 Black Rain Ordnance AR-15s (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $400,000 TAP grant for Saline River Greenway Phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $774,662.38 Outdoor Recreation Grant for Cherry Demuth Campsite (unanimous)
• Approved final 2024 budget amendment to true up funds (unanimous)
• Approved December 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Benton City Council will review and likely vote on ordinances rezoning five parcels from residential to commercial districts. They will also receive information from utility and planning committees and ratify a purchase for a city utility vehicle.

• Ordinance rezoning 712 and 716 North Main Street from R2 to C1
• Ordinance rezoning parcels #805-10100-000, #805-10096-000, and #805-10089-000 from R2 to C3
• Ratification of purchase for a 2024 Caterpillar Skid Steer for Benton Utilities Electric Department

Advertising and Promotion Commission

The Benton Advertising & Promotion Commission will meet to review financial reports, discuss funding proposals for the Arkansas Football Club and Saline County Fair Association, and receive updates on the Benton Event Center and Exit 114 property development. The body will also consider old and new business, including marketing and budget committee reports.

• AFC (Arkansas Football Club) Benton – 2nd Reading and Vote
• Saline County Fair Association – 1st Reading
• Report from Benton Event Center – Nikki Chumley
• Report on the Development of Exit 114 Property – Bill Eldridge
• 2025 Budget Committee – Bill Eldridge

Planning Commission Meetings

The Planning Commission and Board of Adjustments will meet to consider variance requests and site plans. The body will discuss rezoning applications and a conditional use permit for a school.

• Variance requests for 605 Paradise Circle and 2150 Congo Loop
• Site plan for a donut shop at 2150 Congo Loop
• Site plan for Saline Manor (#805-10090-001)
• Rezone requests from R2 to R5 and R2 to LI
• Conditional use permit for a school at 18181 I-30

The commission approved rezoning for properties on N. Main Street and Benton Parkway, as well as a final plat for Severn Landing Phase 3. A variance for side setbacks at 7812 S. Shoreline Blvd was also granted. A public hearing was held regarding the renaming of Dixie Street, but no vote was taken.

• Approved variance to reduce side setbacks from 8' to 7' at 7812 S. Shoreline Blvd (6-0)
• Approved rezone from R2 to C1 at 712 & 716 N. Main Street (6-0)
• Approved rezone from R2 to C3 for three properties along Benton Parkway (6-0)
• Approved Final Plat for Severn Landing Phase 3 (6-0)
• Tabled annexation for new Lost Pizza location @ Highway 5
• Approved minutes of the December 3rd, 2024 meeting