Downtown Dreams, ADUs and a New Goodwill: Recap of the October 7 Planning Commission Meeting

Centerton is growing fast, and last night’s Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustment meetings showed just how much care is going into shaping that growth. From preserving historic buildings downtown to updating zoning rules that reflect modern needs, the city is laying the groundwork for a better future.

As your go-to Centerton real estate expert, I keep a close eye on every meeting and vote that could impact our market. Whether you live here already or are thinking about making a move, here’s what you need to know.

🧊 Mary Matron’s Ice Cream + Coffee: Old Building, New Life, Big Vision

The night started with the Board of Zoning Adjustment considering a request for Mary Matron’s Ice Cream + Coffee at 169 N Main Street, a small historic building full of potential.

Dave Marrs, local developer and owner, asked for a variance to waive off-street parking requirements. The reason? The lot is only 40 feet wide and sits in a designated floodway, which prevents traditional site improvements like paving or parking lots.

🧠 The Plan

Marrs wants to raise the building to meet FEMA flood regulations, bring it up to ADA code, and turn it into a walkable ice cream and coffee shop with a covered patio overlooking the creek. He’s not aiming for a high-volume, drive-thru business. His goal is to create a cozy local spot where people can park nearby, walk over, and stay awhile.

🚧 The Challenge

On-site parking simply isn’t possible, and adjacent landowners haven’t been willing to sell. Marrs offered a practical workaround: shared employee parking at the nearby Mercantile and public parking along Spring and First Streets. The plan also includes sidewalk connectivity and a proposed pedestrian crosswalk.

🏛️ The Bigger Picture

This entire discussion ties into Centerton’s Downtown Revitalization Plan, which is currently in progress. I had the opportunity to participate in a planning focus group last week, and I can confidently say that these exact topics: walkability, preservation, and activating downtown are front and center.

This project is more than just a coffee shop. It's part of a larger effort to bring Centerton’s historic downtown back to life.

✅ The Decision

The Board approved the variance unanimously. That clears the way for construction and sends a strong message that Centerton is ready to invest in its roots.

🏘️ ADUs Approved at The Landing: A Big Win for Housing Flexibility

At The Landing on Greenhouse Road, the Planning Commission reviewed a request to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on all 40 lots, along with a minor rear setback adjustment.

This aligns with Arkansas Act 313, which goes into effect January 1, 2026. That law will require all cities to allow ADUs by right in single-family residential zones.

🙌 Why I’m Excited

As Centerton’s local housing expert, I’m thrilled about this update. ADUs give families more flexibility—whether it’s creating a private space for in-laws, helping adult children save money, or supporting a caregiver under one roof. This is a meaningful step toward addressing our growing housing needs without compromising the neighborhood feel that Centerton is known for.

🧩 What About Short-Term Rentals?

A resident brought up concerns about ADUs being used for short-term rentals. The Commission confirmed that any short-term rental must still go through a separate approval process with full Commission review. This ensures added oversight and maintains a strong residential standard across the community.

🗳️ The Vote

• ADUs were approved (6–1)

• Rear setback reduction passed (4–3)

A smart and balanced move that positions Centerton ahead of the curve.

🧱 Goodwill Brings a New Retail Site to Centerton Boulevard

Also approved was the site plan for a new Goodwill retail and warehouse facility at 1218 W Centerton Blvd. The plan includes:

• A nearly 17,000-square-foot building

• Donation drop-off area

• 68 parking spaces

• Modern landscaping and lighting

• An underground stormwater system

The design checks every box and meets all architectural and commercial code requirements. This project represents a solid step forward for Centerton’s west-side development corridor.

🗓️ Other Meeting Highlights

• 911 Massachusetts Avenue was approved for occasional short-term rental use. One neighbor raised concerns, but no time restrictions were added.

• Commissioners discussed pedestrian access improvements in the Spring Street area—an important piece of the city’s Downtown Plan, which continues to gain traction.

🏡 What This Means for You

As Centerton continues to grow, meetings like this shape what the next 5 to 10 years will look like. More walkable spaces, better housing options, and smart commercial additions mean more opportunity for residents, buyers, and investors.

If you’re considering a move, want to explore ADU-friendly properties, or need guidance on timing a real estate decision in Centerton, I’m your person. I don’t just sell here, I live, work, and participate in the planning of what’s next.

📲 I’m Allie Verdery, The Blue Haired Broker with Engel & Völkers Bentonville, and I’m proud to be your local Centerton expert. Let’s talk about what’s happening in our market and how to make it work for you.

👉 Call, text, or DM me anytime. I’ve got the local knowledge and real-time insight to help you make your next move with confidence.