Courtney Brooks and W. Whitfield Hyman will compete for the Bentonville city attorney position in the Nov. 3 general election, each highlighting their legal experience and vision for the role.
Courtney Brooks, currently serving as an assistant city attorney in Bentonville, emphasized her familiarity with city government operations and ongoing legal issues as key reasons for running. “My current role has given me firsthand insight into the unique challenges Bentonville faces,” Brooks said. She pointed to her involvement in contracts, litigation, and advising city departments as preparation to serve as the city’s top legal advisor. Brooks stressed her goal of providing consistent, clear legal guidance to support the city council and staff in decision-making.
Brooks brings over 10 years of government and private law experience, including time with the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office. She noted that Bentonville’s continuing growth demands a city attorney who understands local government law and can keep pace with new zoning and development issues. “I want to ensure we have strong legal frameworks that protect the city and its residents as Bentonville evolves,” Brooks said.
W. Whitfield Hyman, a private practitioner with over 15 years of experience in trial and appellate work, presented a different perspective on what Bentonville needs in a city attorney. “I’m running to bring a fresh approach, emphasizing transparency and proactive solutions,” Hyman said. He emphasized his background in litigation and negotiation, positioning himself as a candidate who can effectively manage potential legal conflicts before they escalate.
Hyman also highlighted his prior local government experience, having previously served as a city attorney in nearby communities. He stressed the importance of accessible legal advice for elected officials and city staff and believes his private practice background equips him to handle diverse legal matters Bentonville might face, from contracts to land use disputes.
The city attorney role is crucial for Bentonville as it supports the City Council and various departments with legal counsel on ordinances, contracts, risk management, and court representation. Both candidates acknowledged the growing complexities Bentonville faces amid rapid population and economic growth, including navigating state and federal regulations while promoting sustainable local development.
Brooks pointed to her current position within Bentonville’s legal department as evidence of her commitment and direct community impact. She referenced recent projects involving municipal code updates and public safety initiatives as examples where her legal input helped advance city priorities. “Continuity and institutional knowledge matter,” Brooks said. “I want to build on what we’ve already accomplished and keep Bentonville moving forward smoothly.”
Meanwhile, Hyman appealed to voters looking for dynamic leadership that can anticipate challenges and implement preventive legal strategies. He expressed interest in expanding public engagement regarding city legal affairs and increasing clarity around legal decisions that affect residents. “I want people to feel confident that the city attorney’s office is working for the public interest and being proactive about potential legal issues,” Hyman said.
Both candidates agree Bentonville’s rapid growth creates a demanding environment for legal counsel. Population estimates place Bentonville as one of the fastest-growing cities in Arkansas, bringing new development projects, business expansions, and infrastructure demands. Navigating zoning changes, environmental regulations, and contract negotiations for public works will require a city attorney fluent in multiple areas of law.
Brooks underscored her record of collaboration with city departments such as planning, parks and recreation, and public works, which she views as critical to providing comprehensive legal support. She highlighted the recent updates to Bentonville’s trail and park expansion plans as examples where legal clarity helped keep projects on track. “Our community deserves thoughtful legal guidance that aligns with our vision for a livable, connected city,” she said.
Hyman cited his track record of courtroom success and strategic legal advice in complex cases as assets Bentonville could rely on. He also called attention to the importance of managing litigation costs and reducing legal risks through early intervention and sound contract drafting. “Preventing problems is as important as winning cases,” Hyman said.
As Bentonville voters prepare to cast ballots on Nov. 3, the choice for city attorney offers two experienced legal professionals with different approaches to stewardship of the city’s legal affairs. Brooks brings continuity and insider experience, while Hyman proposes a fresh vision grounded in litigation skill and proactive risk management.
The Bentonville city attorney position, elected every four years, wields significant influence over the city’s governance. With Bentonville’s ongoing development and evolving legal landscape, this election will shape how the city navigates upcoming challenges and opportunities.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
