Bentonville Approves Disaster Recovery Contract Following 2024 Tornadoes
In a proactive move to boost disaster preparedness, Bentonville city leaders have approved a contract with Thompson Consulting Services, LLC for debris monitoring and disaster recovery services. The decision comes just one year after the May 2024 tornadoes devastated parts of Bentonville and the surrounding region, emphasizing the need for streamlined emergency response plans.
The agreement, approved through Ordinance RFP-24-80, authorizes Mayor Stephanie Orman and the City Clerk to enter into a contract with Thompson Consulting Services, the highest-rated vendor in a competitive bidding process. The contract includes a one-year term, with the option to renew annually for up to three years, and caps compensation at $500,000 per year.
City officials noted that having a contractor in place ahead of future disasters significantly enhances the city’s ability to respond quickly, remain in compliance with FEMA regulations, and speed up community recovery. The selection process considered vendor experience, proposed methodology, staffing capacity, and pricing.
Thompson Consulting Services received the highest evaluation score—499 out of a possible 600—outpacing the other finalist, Debris Tech, LLC. Their proposal demonstrated strong qualifications, a responsive disaster management plan, and a commitment to compliance standards critical for federal reimbursement.
Purchasing and Compliance Manager Kelsi Frederick emphasized that this agreement is a strategic investment in resilience: “Establishing this contract in advance positions Bentonville for a faster, more efficient, and compliant response in the event of future disasters.”
The ordinance reflects the city’s ongoing effort to improve infrastructure, safety, and emergency readiness as Northwest Arkansas continues to face the unpredictable challenges of severe weather events.
