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1. What is the Historic Preservation Award?

The award recognizes Bentonville property owners who enhance the integrity of the city’s historic properties. This is achieved by appropriate additions and/or exterior renovations to existing structures and compatible new construction.
 
"Historic" is defined as a structure that is approximately 50 years old or older, and embodies distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction. A structure may also be designated as significant for its association with events or individuals that are important on a local, regional, national, or global level. In order for a structure to be designated as significant, it must retain a high level of historic integrity. A structure may also be significant if it is listed in or is eligible to be listed in the Arkansas Register of Historic Places or the National Register of Historic Places.

2. Why was the award created?

Bentonville’s history is important. Ongoing efforts to protect our city’s historic assets sustain the feeling of a rich community history that forms the heart of Bentonville. To recognize the accomplishments of those who have taken a committed role in the preservation of Bentonville’s historic integrity, the city created the historic preservation award.

3. What are the evaluation criteria?

Evaluation criteria are based on four categories:

• Consistent property maintenance in terms of preservation or repair
• Additions and/or exterior renovations that are especially suitable or compatible  to existing structures
• New construction that is compatible in terms of harmony, context, setting, and historic character
• Overall appearance

4. How do I nominate a property?

Any citizen, organization, business or agency may submit a nomination for property within the Bentonville city limits. You may nominate your own property or nominate someone else by filling out the application (PDF). All entries must be received by Wednesday, May 31, 2017.

5. Who is the selection panel?

Winning applications will be selected by a five member panel consisting of one City Council member, one Planning Commission member, two city staff, and a member at large.

6. What happens if I win?

Winners are honored by the Mayor at the second regular City Council meeting in May to coincide with National Historic Preservation Month. The winner is presented with a decorative yard sign designating their property as a winner. A photograph of the winner and property will be placed in the city’s newsletter, the “Bentonville Focus”.