Hi there,
A few folks have already sent me questions about the recent sewer system funding development.
If you also have questions, reply to this email and I’ll add them to my list of things to look into this week.
— Sam
Sponsor Message from Best Friends NWA
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How to Complain to the City
Issue with a trail? Pothole on your street? Streetlight out?
For non-urgent requests for help from the city government in Bentonville, the best starting point is typically the 311 website.
For issues better addressed by phone, such as stray animals or noise complaints, the 311 website also lists the relevant phone numbers.
Sewer Overhaul Financing Plan
The Alice L. Walton Foundation is offering a $239 million line of credit to overhaul the City of Bentonville’s sewer system, city staff said at a special City Council meeting Thursday morning.
The meeting was informational only, with no official action taken. It was the public’s first glimpse at the financing plan city staff have been developing behind the scenes for months.
Consultants earlier this year recommended major upgrades throughout the system to keep up with growth. Already, development is paused in parts of the city because of sewer capacity constraints.
News from Elsewhere
AMP revenue decreases by 24.6%, hosts 10 fewer concert series shows (NWA Business Journal)
Residents can view, give feedback on Northwest Arkansas transportation plan (NWA Business Journal)
Director: Northwest Arkansas nonprofit operating six senior centers at $500,000 deficit (Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette)
Bentonville-Based App Sober Sidekick Raises $7.6 Million
Sober Sidekick, a Bentonville-based app that functions as a social media network for people seeking to remain sober, recently raised $7.6 million in new investment.
The company plans to use the funding to hire more employees and expand its user base.
The platform emphasizes peer-to-peer support and includes features such as a sobriety counter to mark milestones and access to 24/7 virtual Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
Community Announcements
Get ready to ring in the New Year in style with Downtown Bentonville Inc. (Downtown Bentonville Inc.)
These are paid messages from community organizations. Submit yours here.
Things To Do This Week
Public Art 101: From Concept to Installation
Tuesday, Dec. 9 @ U of A Collaborative (704 SE 5th St.)
A free event designed to demystify the public art process in Northwest Arkansas — from idea to proposal, selection, and installation.
An Evening with Tim Ernst, Ozarks Wilderness Photographer
Tuesday, Dec 9 @ Bentonville Public Library
Tim Ernst, who has been a nature photographer for five decades, will debut his new book and pair it with a presentation on his latest work.
Tween Time-Gather
Thursday, Dec. 11 @ Bentonville Public Library
A screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol and a cardboard gingerbread house craft activity. For 4th-6th graders.
Giving Machine NWA Opening Day
Thursday, Dec. 11 @ Downtown Bentonville Square
Charitable “vending machine” on the square opens for the season, letting visitors purchase donations for partner nonprofits.
Holiday After Hours at the Peel Museum
Thursday, Dec. 11 @ Peel Mansion
Explore the museum after hours, sip complimentary hot chocolate, create a holiday craft, and share your wish list with Santa.
Centerton Christmas Parade
Friday, Dec. 12 @ Centerton
Annual Christmas parade. Parade starts at Harp's store. Santa will be on hand.
INVERSE Performance Art Festival 2025
Thursday, Dec. 11 - Sunday, Dec. 14 @ The Momentary
Four days of experimental art performances, including a rollercoaster for cell phones, staring at inanimate objects, and an investigation into the role of clouds.
Ventriloquist Heyden Garrett's Christmas Special!
Saturday, Dec. 13 @ Bentonville Public Library
A Christmas-themed performance by ventriloquist and 2024 Bentonville's Got Talent winner Heyden Garrett.
Family Movie Matinee: The Grinch
Saturday, Dec 13 @ Bentonville Public Library
Description from IMDb: “A grumpy Grinch plots to ruin Christmas for the village of Whoville.”
Bentonville Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 13 @ Downtown Bentonville Square
Holiday merriment, over 100 floats, and live performances.
Deck the Dough - Cookie Decorating Party
Sunday, Dec. 14 @ Bentonville Brewing Company
A ticketed Christmas cookie decorating party.
Brunch with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Sunday, Dec. 14 @ AC Hotel
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance for photos with the kids, plus DIY gingerbread man cookies and family-friendly activities.
