By RICK MILLER
Olean Star
LITTLE VALLEY — Kelly Reed became the third Cattaraugus County administrator and first woman appointed to the post on Wednesday.
Reed, who has been deputy administrator since 2016, will succeed County Administrator Jack Searles, who will step down on at the end of the month.
County Legislator Kelly Andreano, R-Olean, nominated Reed. “Kelly has proven herself competent and well-experienced. She’s worked 25 years dedicating her life to the county and serving in many roles.”
Andreano said she had “no qualms,” nor did any other county lawmakers, that “she will continue to lead this county forward.” Legislators are “honored and excited” to have Reed, she added.
The entire 15-member county legislature, all Republicans, were co-sponsors of the resolution to appoint Reed.
“This is a watershed resolution,” Legislature Chairman Andrew Burr, R-Gowanda, said before the vote. “After a long and successful career with the county (Jack) turned the reins over to Kelly.”
Burr congratulated her, saying legislators appreciate Reed’s experience with Searles “and all your high energy and great ideas. I think we all look forward to working with you in the future. I can’t think of anyone who would do a better job.”
Legislators also named Deputy Personnel Officer Kristine Phinney to the post of personnel officer effective June 29. Searles is currently serving as personnel officer.
In a brief interview with the Olean Star following her appointment, Reed said she planned to continue as director of the county nursing homes, a post she’s held since 2018.
What is her first order of business as the county’s third administrator?
“The budget,” she replied without hesitation. “We’re starting early this year due to the transition. I’m looking forward to my first budget as county administrator.” Searles, she said, “has been a great mentor.”
Reed said, “There’s never a dull moment in county government,” which has all the making of a big family with hundreds of employees working for taxpayers.
Reed started working for the county in 1999 as a temporary employee for Child Protective Services in the Social Services Department. From there she moved to the Public Works Department helping the procurement specialist.
In 2000, she began working as an account clerk-typist in the Treasurer’s Office, where she continued until her appointment as Searles’ deputy in 2016. Her predecessor was deputy administrator was Jeff Vandecar, who she also considers a mentor.
“I’m looking forward to continue serving the residents of Cattaraugus County in a new role as county administrator,” Reed said.
“The legislature and all the department heads are great to work with,” she said. “On to the next adventure.”
Her appointment is effective June 29.
Searles was appointed in 2003. He served as a deputy to the first county administrator, Donald E. Furman, who was appointed in 1986.
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