Let’s Commit to Being ‘Here’ in Each Moment  

As the new year begins, I find myself reflecting on the privilege of serving as your mayor and the journey that brought me here. In my November column, I shared my belief in authentic leadership — leading in a way that reflects my values and invites everyone to participate. Building on that foundation, my intentions this year center on fostering collaboration, being fully present, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.  

Our community thrives when we come together with a shared purpose and respect for each other’s contributions. Meaningful collaboration, as I see it, is essential to creating a Columbia that serves everyone. This isn’t just about partnerships but actively seeking out connections that allow each voice to be heard. True collaboration means making space for all perspectives, especially those that are less commonly heard and that challenge us.  

Whether working with city staff, local businesses, non-profits, or residents, my goal is to create a space where collaboration drives real progress. A recent example is the Housing Summit we hosted in October, attended by more than 200 people. Builders, neighborhood representatives, non-profits, social service agencies, and government officials gathered to work toward shared goals. I want to build on that success by fostering partnerships that address housing, public safety, climate resilience, and economic opportunity.  

In public service, one of the most important qualities we can bring to our work is presence. Today, with full schedules and digital distractions, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. I know I’m not alone in feeling the need for focus, and that’s why I’m committing to being fully present in every space I enter — whether it’s a council meeting, a community event, or a conversation with a resident.  

This commitment to presence is closely tied to authentic leadership. To lead authentically, I must be fully engaged with the people and issues around me. When residents share their thoughts, hopes, or frustrations, my goal is to truly listen, fostering a dialogue that allows for openness and understanding. I want to build on our shared trust by being fully here — wherever “here” might be — ensuring that each interaction informs the work we do together.  

As your mayor, I’m guided by my belief that one can lead without losing their unique personality or values. I want to bring my whole self to this role. Authentic leadership is not about perfection but about being real. If you’ve met me, you know I speak candidly and am not particularly formal. I’ve found this helps people, especially those new to working in government, feel more comfortable participating. By showing up as myself, I hope to inspire others to see a place for themselves in local government — to understand that they can make a difference without losing who they are.  

It’s my hope that this approach will encourage the next generation to see public service as a space where they can bring their unique perspectives and personalities. This year, I intend to lead with a commitment to authenticity and inspire future leaders to do the same. Our community’s strength lies in the diversity of voices that shape it, and I hope to see more residents, especially young people, finding their voice.  

Setting intentions for the new year reminds me of the role each of us plays in creating the Columbia we envision. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a student, a small business owner, or a city employee, I invite you to join me in setting intentions that resonate with our shared values and aspirations. If we each approach this year with a commitment to collaboration, presence, and authenticity, I believe we can create a stronger, more vibrant Columbia that reflects the best of all of us. 

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Barbara Buffaloe currently is serving her first term in office as the mayor of Columbia.