Bella Vista Looks to Strengthen Code Enforcement with New Development Compliance Officers

BELLA VISTA — A proposed ordinance under review by the Bella Vista City Council would expand the city’s code enforcement capabilities by creating a new class of officers focused specifically on planning and development issues.

Dubbed Development Compliance Officers, the new role would be housed within the Planning and Development Department and tasked with handling zoning violations, stormwater compliance, short-term rental regulation, floodplain enforcement, and more. The officers would also have the authority to issue citations—something the department lost in 2023 following a departmental restructure.

Planning and Development Director Taylor Robertson told the Council that the Compliance Division has already responded to over 300 cases since launching in December 2024. "We're trying to streamline how residents and developers interact with enforcement,” Robertson said. “This position helps keep our planners focused on reviewing new applications, while one person oversees compliance.”

The ordinance is on its third reading, following a split vote at the previous council meeting where members debated whether to fast-track the approval. While some, like Council Member Craig Honchell, cited operational efficiency, others like Council Member Wendy Hughes preferred to honor the traditional three-reading process.

Police Chief James Graves voiced support, explaining that delays in enforcement can cause confusion and slow responses between departments. “This isn’t about creating more red tape—it’s about having the right staff with the right tools to keep projects and properties compliant,” Graves said.

If approved, the ordinance would restore citation authority that existed from 2009 to 2023 and codify a dedicated compliance structure within the city’s planning framework. There is no fiscal impact, as the position was previously approved in the 2024–2025 budget.