Q&A with Becca Zajac, candidate for District 7 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 7 seat is filled by Joanne Cogle, who is a candidate in the Columbus mayoral race. Candidates to succeed her as the council’s District 7 representative are financial services and insurance professional Laketha Ashe, communications professional Chiara Richardson and Dragonfly Trails executive director Rebecca “Becca” Zajac.
Here is the Ledger-Enquirer’s emailed interview with Zajac:
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running because I’m passionate about Columbus’ future, and I believe City Council can and should work better for the people it serves. This election is an opportunity to elect leaders who will work together, rebuild trust, and move Columbus forward. We need the right leadership for this moment.
“For the past decade, I’ve turned ideas into real projects that benefit our community, from building the Dragonfly Trails network to leading public art initiatives and supporting Uptown revitalization. I focus on listening first and delivering results, and I’m ready to bring that experience to City Council.”
Why should District 7 residents vote for you?
“I bring a proven track record of delivering results in Columbus. Over the past ten years, I’ve worked alongside Columbus Consolidated Government and understand how to navigate local processes, build partnerships, and move projects from concept to completion. I’ve led complex efforts requiring coordination across public, private, and nonprofit partners, including the buildout of Columbus’ 65-mile trail network. I’m prepared to step into this role on day one.
“Equally important, I’m committed to being accessible and responsive. I’ve built my career by listening first and will continue that approach on Council. Residents deserve transparency and a voice in decisions.”
What is the most significant problem you want to address, and what will be your solution if elected?
“After knocking on more than 2,000 doors, the most consistent concern I’ve heard is a lack of communication and trust in government. People want to be informed and included in decisions that affect their neighborhoods.
“My approach is straightforward: communicate early and consistently through town halls, neighborhood meetings, and regular updates before decisions are made. I will share information in ways that are clear, accessible, and easy to understand. Just as important, I will show up consistently, so residents have a direct line to their representative.
“This is how I approach my work, and I know when people are informed and involved, outcomes improve and trust grows.”
What is your occupational and educational background?
“My career has focused on advancing Columbus through economic development and community-driven projects. I began with Uptown Columbus, supporting small businesses, activating downtown, and contributing to the riverfront development. Today, I serve as Executive Director of Dragonfly Trails, where I lead the buildout of the 65-mile Dragonfly Trail network, the second-longest connected trail system in the Southeast.
“I also co-wrote the public art ordinance and have led major installations, including the 11th Street underpass lighting and a 3,500-square-foot RiverWalk mural. I studied Business Marketing and Environmental Economics at Wittenberg University and am currently pursuing an MBA in nonprofit management.”
What is your community involvement and leadership experience?
“Service has always been central to my work. I’ve been actively involved in organizations focused on strengthening Columbus, including Columbus Ahead (formerly Columbus 2025), Bicycle Columbus, Young Professionals, Young Art Patrons, PAWS Humane, and United Way. Most significantly, I served on the executive committee of Columbus Ahead, guiding long-term investments to reduce poverty, increase prosperity, and improve quality of life.
“I’ve completed the Citizens Government Academy, a 10-week program on how Columbus Consolidated Government operates, and Georgia Municipal Association’s Young Gamechangers program. My service has been recognized with honors including Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40, Columbus and the Valley’s 5 Under 40, and the Columbus Chamber’s J.R. Allen Young Leader of the Year Award.”
What else should readers know about you and your campaign?
“My campaign is focused on delivering practical results that improve daily life in District 7. My priorities include economic development in South Columbus, expanding access to affordable housing, supporting public safety efforts from neighborhood engagement to workforce development, and maintaining quality public spaces like streets, sidewalks, and facilities. I will be a responsible steward of City funds while supporting small businesses and improving connectivity.
“My work has centered on turning ideas into projects people use every day. I’m ready to get to work and deliver results for District 7.”