Highfill Highlights
May 27, 2026
The Highfill Planning Commission met on May 26, 2026, to consider a rezoning request, review a commercial development proposal, and receive an update on the draft Future Land Use Map and Master Street Plan.
Planning Commission Recommends Commercial Rezoning
The Commission held a public hearing and considered a request from Oelke Construction to rezone approximately 2.57 acres located at 674 NW Highfill Street from RR (Rural Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial).
| Parcel: 22-0005-003 | Zoning District: General Commercial C-2 |
| Benton County GIS: Basemap | Heavy retail trade, service and business |
| NWA Regional Planning Commission Zoning Map | Highfill Municipal Code: Title 13 Planning |
City staff reported that the request is consistent with Highfill’s Future Land Use Map and supports the planned development pattern for the area. Commissioners discussed the property’s location adjacent to existing commercially zoned land and its compatibility with future development plans.
View Highfill’s current land use plan.
No public comments were received during the hearing.
Following discussion, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning request to the City Council.
Commercial Development Plan Approved
After considering the rezoning request, the Commission reviewed a large-scale development plan for approximately 3.93 acres that includes both the newly rezoned property and an adjacent commercially zoned parcel.
The proposed development includes:
- A 1,700-square-foot building planned for a future pizza restaurant.
- A 10,160-square-foot multi-tenant commercial building.
- Future space for retail, office, service, fitness, grocery, and similar commercial uses.
- Stormwater improvements designed to manage runoff and meet City requirements.
| View Large Scale Development Site Plans (PDF) | View Floor Plans & Elevations (PDF) | View Overall Floor Plans (PDF) |
Commissioners discussed site drainage, traffic circulation, and the overall layout of the development. The applicant’s engineer explained that drainage improvements are designed to reduce post-development runoff compared to existing conditions.
The Planning Commission approved the large-scale development plan.
Future Land Use Map and Master Street Plan Update
Representatives from Garver presented updates to the draft Future Land Use Map, Master Street Plan, and Vision Plan.
| View Draft Future Land Use Map and Master Street Plan (PDF) | View Draft Highfill Vision Plan (PDF) |
The presentation highlighted revisions made after reviewing comments received during the recent public input meeting and through online submissions. Topics discussed included:
- Future residential growth patterns.
- Preservation of larger-lot and estate-style housing opportunities.
- Development of mixed-use and commercial activity centers.
- Housing options for residents at different life stages.
- Future transportation connections and roadway planning.
- Long-term implementation strategies for growth and infrastructure.
Commissioners and residents engaged in a detailed discussion about how Highfill can accommodate growth while preserving the community’s character and rural heritage.
No action was taken on the draft plans. The discussion was informational and intended to gather feedback before future public hearings and formal consideration by the Planning Commission.
Other Business
The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the April 28, 2026, meeting.
Looking Ahead
The draft Future Land Use Map, Master Street Plan, and Vision Plan remain under review. Additional public input opportunities will be available before the Planning Commission considers formal recommendations on the plans later this year.
Residents can review the draft planning documents on the City’s website and continue providing feedback as the planning process moves forward.
Understanding the Planning Commission’s Role
The Planning Commission plays a key role in guiding the city’s growth. This volunteer board reviews land use proposals, zoning requests, and subdivision plans to ensure they align with Highfill’s zoning regulations and comprehensive plan.
Public input is welcome—but please note: residents may only speak on public hearing items listed on the agenda. This helps ensure comments are focused on proposals under formal review.
In contrast, during City Council meetings, residents are invited to speak during the Public Comment section of the agenda. Unlike Planning Commission meetings, this portion allows you to address the Council on any topic, not just agenda items.
Meeting agendas and supporting materials are posted in advance, so you can stay informed about topics that may impact your neighborhood.
Staying Engaged with the Planning Commission
Residents are encouraged to review agendas, minutes, and proposed zoning or development changes, attend Planning Commission meetings, and provide input during Public Comment. Your participation helps ensure that land use, development, and growth decisions reflect the community’s needs and priorities.
Next Planning Commission Meeting:
June 23 | 6:00 PM
Mark your calendar and join the discussion on the future of Highfill!
Watch Planning Commission Meetings:
Missed a meeting? You can view the full video or listen to audio recordings on the City’s website to see discussions, votes, and updates firsthand. Watching gives residents insight into how the Commission evaluates projects, reviews zoning changes, and balances growth with the character of Highfill.
Official Documents & Updates:
For supporting documents, meeting agendas, and updates on planning or development projects, visit the [City of Highfill Planning Commission page]. Here you can view submitted plans, zoning proposals, and staff reports that shape the future of the community. Highfill’s Planning Commission works for you — stay informed, get involved, and help guide the growth and development of our city!
Looking Ahead – Meetings & City Events
- City Council: Tuesday, June 9th at 6:00 PM
- Planning Commission: Tuesday, June 23rd at 6:00 PM
- Freedom Fest: Saturday, June 27th at 5:00 PM
It’s My Town!