Tupelo businessman Jack Reed Jr. will become Tupelo’s next mayor when the new term begins July 6. A political newcomer but longtime community booster, Reed ran his campaign on positive change and returning the “Tupelo Spirit” to City Hall. The Daily Journal recently asked him these three questions:

Q: Now that it’s over, what do you think of the mayor’s race?

A: I feel both humbled and excited. I wanted to conduct myself so that I would have the community’s respect, win or lose. I was determined to run a positive campaign, setting out my visions for Tupelo. I think the voters embraced both the tone and the substance of our message.

Q: What’s your first priority as mayor?

A: My first priority is to establish an excellent working relationship with the new City Council. Lisa and I have already invited the council members and their spouses to our home to get to know each other better. I know that we all recognize that the voters are ready for us to be one strong team for Tupelo.

Q: What do you consider to be Tupelo’s greatest asset and why?

A: Tupelo’s greatest asset is the combined energy and spirit of our private citizens who do their parts to make Tupelo a great place to live. We have been given a great town; working together – we can make it even better.