Reed Seeks Election For Bentonville Ward 3 Seat

Kristy Reed Kristy Reed
Kristy Reed Kristy Reed

BENTONVILLE -- Kristy Reed has entered her bid for the Ward 3, Position 2 City Council seat in this year's election.

Bill Burckart is the incumbent in that seat.

Profile

Kristy Reed

Age: 34

Residency: Five years in Bentonville, seven years in Northwest Arkansas

Family: Single

Employment: Walmart Corporate Strategy

Education: Bachelor of arts in communication, University of Southern California, 2003

Military Experience: None

Political Experience: None

Source: Staff Report

Reed is a political newcomer who has volunteered in numerous activities in Bentonville, according to a news release.

Reed has served as an ambassador for Crystal Bridges Art Infusion, as the Charity Challenge of Champions communications chairperson, Bike Bentonville communication director, Keep Dollars in Benton County steering committee member, Downtown Bentonville Inc. volunteer, Camp War Eagle mentor and has led Bible studies at Cross Church, the release states. She also received volunteer recognition from Mayor Bob McCaslin for her work with Friends at Slaughterpen Trails.

Reed is a senior manager of corporate strategy at Walmart.

She's focused on improving the city's infrastructure as the population continues to grow and supports developing more entertainment options for young professionals and families, the release states.

"I am confident in my ability to pursue creative civic action to keep Bentonville moving forward and to attract new residents to this area," Reed said. "I chose to live in this city because of the great economic activity already happening here, and I've worked hard to be a part of that movement. Now, I feel it is time for me to serve the city that has welcomed me with open arms. With a clear vision and a strong desire to work with others in this community, I am certain that I can help deliver a better Bentonville today and a world class city of the future."

Reed has a strong ability in coalition building and has a good vision for the city's future, said Marcus Osborne, a Walmart executive who has known Reed for seven years.

The city has transformed a lot in the last few years, but there's more that could be done in the way of entertainment other cities have that Bentonville doesn't, he said.

"She's shown herself as someone who will get stuff done," he said.

Susan Koehler, who has also worked with Reed, said Reed has been "incredibly interested" in the community since she came to Northwest Arkansas seven years ago and she has the ability to bring people together.

"She just always seemed to have a real heart for the local community," Koehler said. "She's very good at networking and understanding the various needs of all the stakeholders."

NW News on 07/31/2014

Upcoming Events