In the development of our latest city budget — and honestly, in every budget — someone inevitably asks whether it’s worth it to fund sustainability initiatives, especially when we have so many priorities like public safety. It’s a fair question. Public safety is and will always be one of our highest priorities, and our budget […]
Public Safety and Sustainability Go Hand in Hand Read More »
City Council Interns Describe Insights Beyond the Textbooks
As we look toward the future of Columbia, Missouri, it is imperative that we prioritize education at all levels. Education is not just a pathway to personal success; it is the cornerstone of a vibrant, thriving community. From early childhood education to public school funding, and continuing education for adults, investing in learning opportunities ensures
As I sit down to reflect on the essence of our community, one word comes to mind: Teamwork. The sight of my son’s fifth-grade basketball team giving it their all during the district semi-finals brought this concept to life for me. Although they didn’t emerge victorious, their spirit and support for each other was contagious.
In the two years I have worked as Columbia’s mayor, there are two questions that have come up repeatedly: “Is the job everything you thought it would be?” and “Who would subject themselves to this for $9K a year?” My answer to the first question is “Yes” (with a few caveats). My answer to the
The Mayor’s Core Values: Service, Trust, and Joy Read More »
As mayor, I have the privilege of representing our city in ways that extend well beyond our local boundaries. One of the most impactful ways has been through my active participation in associations and networks. This June, I and hundreds of mayors from around the country, will be gathering in Kansas City, Missouri for the
In my role as mayor, one of my favorite tasks to do is provide the welcome at visiting conferences and large meetings being hosted in Columbia. Often when this happens in other cities, the mayor providing welcome will jokingly encourage the attendees to go out and spend money to boost the local sales tax. While
Columbia’s mayor, Barbara Buffaloe, discusses innovation in our local government.
In January, we hosted the Columbia Values Diversity Celebration. It was lovely to see community members coming together to celebrate the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and to honor the individuals and organizations in our community that put those teachings to work. This event reminded me of the importance of in-person interactions and
