Mayoral Reflections: Public Service Belongs to All of Us

Photo by Rebecca Allen Photography.

It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve as the mayor of Columbia for the past three years — and now, thanks to the trust of our community, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve again. Running for office is never a simple endeavor. It’s full of early mornings, long nights, tough questions, and deep reflection. But it’s also full of conversations that give me hope, ideas that spark possibility, and a renewed appreciation for what makes Columbia such a special place.  

Throughout the campaign, I heard directly from many of you — at the doors, at events, and even in the grocery store aisle — about your priorities and concerns. Whether it was public safety, the pace of growth, the cost of housing, or the future of our climate and infrastructure, these issues are not just political talking points. They’re real challenges that shape our everyday lives, and I carry those conversations with me as I prepare for this next chapter of service.  

I want to recognize and thank both of my opponents, Tanya Heath and Blair Murphy, for the thoughtful, respectful campaigns they ran. This election gave voters clear choices, but it never turned negative. That’s a testament to the kind of community we are — and the kind of leadership Columbia deserves.  

I know that not everyone cast their vote for me, and I want to be clear: I am here to serve all of Columbia. Every neighborhood, every household, every voice matters. This is how democracy works best — not just through elections, but in how we show up for each other every day afterward.  

Looking back, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together. From foundational investments in infrastructure and affordable housing to launching our Office of Violence Prevention and starting our own police academy, we’ve taken concrete steps to make Columbia a safer and more equitable city. We modernized our waste collection system (roll carts!!), resumed curbside recycling, and supported our hardworking city employees with much-needed raises.  

We also stood firm in our values, affirming the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion at a time when these ideals are being challenged across the country. Columbia showed up — again and again — to be a place where everyone belongs.  

Looking forward, I see so much opportunity. I remain committed to advancing renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate resilience to ensure Columbia is prepared for the future. I want to see continued investment in affordable housing and support for the arts, culture, and public spaces that help make our city vibrant and welcoming. And I will keep working to ensure our local government is strong, transparent, and supportive of the incredible public servants who make it all run.  

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that public service doesn’t only belong to elected officials. It belongs to all of us. Whether you serve on a board or commission, volunteer at your child’s school, or help a neighbor shovel snow, you are contributing to the Columbia we all want to see. 

I’m here, ready to keep working, listening, and collaborating. Thank you for this opportunity. And thank you for being a community worth fighting for. Let’s keep building it together. 

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