Q&A with Simi Barnes, candidate for District 1 seat on Columbus Council

Editor’s note: This is one of the Ledger-Enquirer Q&As with candidates running for a contested seat on the Columbus Council. Early voting for the 2026 local nonpartisan election, which coincides with the Georgia primary, begins April 27, and election day is May 19.

The 10-member Columbus Council’s District 1 seat is filled by Byron Hickey, who isn’t seeking reelection. Competing for the seat are licensed professional counselor Simi Barnes, daughter of the late Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes, and retired Columbus police officer Karen Gaskins.

Here is the Ledger-Enquirer’s emailed interview with Barnes:

Why are you running for this position?

“As a concerned citizen (and now candidate) and the daughter of a former elected official who served this city with distinction for 17 years, I know firsthand what true and effective leadership looks like. Dad was the true definition of a statesman, and I am both humbled and inspired by his leadership. That inspiration has led me to run for District 1 because I believe the daily issues facing the citizens of Columbus still matter and don’t deserve to be overshadowed by the political interests of those in power. If elected, I will support issues that matter most to the constituents of District 1, such as public safety, transparency, and housing accessibility, and will be a clear voice for those who are listened to the least but need to be heard the most.”

Why should Columbus District 1 residents vote for you?

“Residents should vote for me because I bring both professional experience and a commitment to serving this community. Professionally, I have worked with the very issues that cities grapple with every day: mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness. I’ve helped families in crisis, supported survivors of violence, and helped transition homeless residents into safe and affordable housing. I have also managed programs, staff, and budgets, so I know both the human side and how systems and funding work to solve these complex issues. Those experiences have taught me how to lead with both compassion and responsibility, necessary ingredients for true, effective leadership that not only gets things done but cares.”

What is the most significant problem you want to address, and what will be your solution if elected?

“Affordable housing is an important issue facing our community. In Columbus, nearly 48 percent of renters are cost-burdened or severely cost-burdened, meaning many families do not have enough money for necessities. If elected, I would focus on expanding access to housing by working with nonprofits, housing service providers, and responsible developers to increase the supply of safe, affordable housing. At the same time, I am mindful of the importance of responsible development so that the stability of nearby communities is maintained. Currently, Columbus is evenly split (50/50) between renters and homeowners, but renters’ voices are often unheard. If elected, I will prioritize all residents, ensuring they have a seat at the table and that their experiences are included in the decision-making process.”

What is your occupational and educational background?

“I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 15 years of experience in behavioral health. My career has focused on helping children, families, and individuals facing difficult life circumstances. In leadership roles within community behavioral health and substance abuse services, I have supervised staff, programs, and budgets, and ensured that services were delivered with the utmost dignity and respect for all, regardless of background. This work has given me an understanding of how policy works and how thoughtful leadership can improve outcomes for individuals and communities.”

What is your community involvement and history of leadership roles?

“Throughout my career, I have been actively involved in serving the community both professionally and through volunteer work. For much of my career, I have served in leadership roles, overseeing behavioral health programs that support some of our community’s most vulnerable residents. In addition, I have volunteered as an advocate for a sexual assault support center, providing crisis support to survivors of sexual violence. These experiences have reinforced my belief in dignity, justice, and standing alongside those who need support the most.”

What else should the L-E’s readers know about your campaign?

“My campaign is centered on listening, working with others, and will be defined as ‘leadership that cares.’ I believe city government works best when it is guided by the voices of the people it serves. If elected, I will prioritize open communication with residents through regular town halls so citizens can ask questions, voice their concerns, and share their ideas. It is important to me that people feel heard and know that their concerns matter. Ultimately, my campaign and my tenure will be about building a stronger Columbus, one where neighborhoods are safe, housing is accessible, and opportunity is available for all.”

How to learn more about the candidate

Barnes’ campaign website is simibarnes.com.