Election 2020: Q&A with Columbus Council District 4 candidates

To help Columbus area voters decide which local candidates to support in the June 9 election, the Ledger-Enquirer is publishing a series of stories about the contested races in a Q&A format.

This article features the District 4 seat on Columbus Council. Elaine Gillispie and Toyia Tucker are running to fill the seat, which has no incumbent.

Gillispie, 63, retired as a Congressional Field Representative for Congressman Sanford D. Bishop after 18 years.

Her work spanned 11 counties in southwest Georgia, where she served as liaison, meeting with federal, state and local officials including Fort Benning commanding generals and garrison commanders.

A United States Army Veteran, she is also a former Columbus firefighter.

Tucker, 42, is a retired United States Air Force Veteran. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and most recently worked as an information technology/telecommunications specialist and clinical applications technician at Martin Army Community Hospital at Fort Benning.

Tucker is currently the director of membership and outreach for the Muscogee County Democratic Committee; the co-chair of Pierce Crossing Neighborhood Watch; and the superintendent of Sunday School at Revelation Missionary Baptist Church.

The candidates answered the following questions via email.

Why do you think you are the best choice for District 4?

Gillispie: “I am the best candidate as I bring a wealth of experience working with federal, state and local governments officials. I am well connected and if I can’t resolve a problem or issue a constituent might have, I know what agency to contact immediately.”

Tucker: “I pledge to be sincere and dedicated to developing effective governmental operations by building positive relationships with elected officials, local leaders and the citizens of District 4. I will continue to nurture and develop public-private partnerships with all appropriate entities to enhance our local government. I pledge to increase accountability and transparency in our city council. Realizing the challenges we face as a city, I will be supportive of efforts being made by Columbus 2025 to improve the quality of life for all citizens. I will encourage our faith-based community to become more involved in the daily experiences that affect our citizens.”

“I’m a new face, with enthusiastic energy and fresh ideas. I’m a retired United States Air Force Veteran with numerous skills and talents. I believe that we are Stronger and Better when WE Work Together.”

What things do you want to change or make better in the district?

Gillispie: “First of all I want to ensure that the citizens of the 4th District are getting their fair share of tax revenue. You cannot do that unless you are at the table were the decisions are being made. I would also like to see renovations done in Carver Park and Shirley Winston Park and fund programs and events so children and young adults have a safe and secure place to go.”

Tucker: “My desire has always been to help my community, and I know that as a collective voice, we can have the district that we envision.

• A district that focuses on building and retaining our talented and educated people.
• A district that will offer jobs that pay a living wage.
• A district that is safe, vibrant, and welcoming.”

How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process of the city?

Gillispie: “I plan to mirror two seasoned politicians, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr., and City Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes by having town hall meetings at least every four months so that I will know what are the residents concerns, complaints and the things they think City Government is doing right. I will take advantage of Social Media to keep residents in the loop. It is my desire to be easily accessible to every resident of the 4th District.”

Tucker: “One of my first goals is to have a District 4 Townhall. It’s my desire to actively involve the residents in the decision-making process of Columbus by actively listening to their concerns. That’s extremely important in the current climate of our city, state, and nation.”

What is your favorite thing about Columbus or favorite place in the city?

Gillispie: “My favorite thing about Columbus is its philanthropic and compassionate community. During my tenure in the military a lot of my comrades did not want to come home but I never thought about living anywhere but in the Tri-City Community. It’s military friendly and home is where the heart is and mine has always been here.”

Tucker: “My love for Columbus developed as a child. I have fond memories from growing up in Carver Heights. It’s those fond memories and creating new ones with my family that make Columbus, my favorite place. It’s difficult to choose one location. I have always loved the Riverwalk. I love my neighborhood in District 4, and I love the citizens. However, the most peaceful place to me is my home. I love being a resident in District 4.”