Neighbors Push Back on Commercial Rezoning — Planning Commission Says No

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — In a rare unanimous denial, the Bentonville Planning Commission voted 7-0 against a proposed rezoning at 305 Southeast Henry Street after residents voiced concerns over commercial intrusion into their neighborhood.

Applicant Tallapati requested a change from Downtown High Density Residential (DN-3) to Downtown Edge (DE) to enable a lot split. However, DE zoning also permits some light commercial uses, which nearby residents said would alter the residential character of the area.

Several neighbors attended the public hearing to express concerns about traffic, noise, and future business encroachment. While the applicant argued that the rezone was needed to divide the lot within legal limits, commissioners pushed back.

“We should not change the zoning just to accommodate a technical hurdle,” said Commissioner Dana Davis. “The surrounding area is residential, and that’s worth protecting.”

Planning staff acknowledged the unique lot size challenge and were asked to explore alternative paths forward within the existing zoning designation.

This decision underscores the city’s sensitivity to neighborhood input, especially as development pressures mount near downtown.