Bentonville, AR...The City of Bentonville, in collaboration with C.R. Crawford Construction and Hight Jackson Architects, will celebrate a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Bentonville Animal Services & Adoption Center on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 10:00 am.
On July 13, 2021, City Council voted unanimously to approve the project's $3.56 million budget and construction agreement. The 7,100-square-foot building is located at the corner of SW I and SW 41st Street. Construction began in April 2021 and was completed in January 2023.
In response to extensive community input and repeated requests, Mayor Stephanie Orman asked Bentonville Police and Bentonville Parks and Recreation to partner together in creating a forward-facing Animal Services Department. Under her leadership, this newly developed department hired its first Animal Services Manager, Ali O’Neill, in 2021. The department has since grown to include Animal Services Officers, Kennel Technicians, and an Administrative Assistant, and is eager to serve its pets and citizens.
Mayor Orman’s primary goal for the new department is to return pets to their owner or connect pets with a forever family. The facility will provide an outlet for community members to volunteer their time by assisting pets in need while learning valuable skills regarding responsible pet ownership.
Manager Ali O’Neill says, "This adoption center aligns Bentonville with other municipalities in our area who have managed city-owned facilities for years. We’re excited to open the city’s first adoption center, especially during Bentonville’s 150th celebration." The event will include the ribbon-cutting at 10:15 AM, adoptable pets, giveaways, and refreshments.
To learn more about the new building and department, visit www.barkbentonville..com.