Q&A with Cathy Cook, candidate for citywide District 9 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 citywide District 9 seat is filled by incumbent John Anker, who was appointed to the seat by the council’s 6-3 vote in March 2025 on the same day Judy Thomas resigned. Anker, founder and president of Ankerpak, is running in this election against dentist Cathy Cook, U.S. Army veteran Rocky Marsh and Valdosta State University visiting political science professor John Van Doorn.
Here is the Ledger-Enquirer’s emailed interview with Cook:
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running because Columbus raised me, and service has always been at the center of my life.
“From serving our country as a veteran, to caring for patients as a dentist, to building a small business here at home, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people. Now, I’m ready to serve our entire city on Council.
“I believe Columbus deserves leadership that puts people before politics, brings people together and focuses on real solutions that help families thrive. I want to be a collaborative voice that helps move our city forward and brings an end to the chaos by focusing on what matters most to our community.”
Why should Columbus residents vote for you?
“Voters should choose me because I bring real-world experience, a servant’s heart and a commitment to every corner of Columbus.
“I’m not a career politician. I’m a veteran, a healthcare provider and a small-business owner who understands the everyday challenges people face.
“I will listen first, lead with integrity and work to bring practical, common-sense solutions that move our city forward.”
What is the most significant problem you want to address, and what will be your solution if elected?
“City Council’s role is to listen to the public, set priorities and make decisions through policy and the budget that reflect the needs of our community. My focus is on making sure the voices of Columbus residents are heard and turned into action.
“One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring that every neighborhood has access to opportunity, including affordable housing, economic development and access to healthy food. While Council does not operate programs directly, it plays a critical role in shaping how resources are allocated and where attention is focused.
“As a councilor, I will be an active listener and advocate for these issues by bringing forward ideas, working with city staff and identifying budget priorities that reflect what residents are asking for. That can include supporting incentives for grocery development in underserved areas, encouraging public private partnerships to expand affordable housing, and prioritizing small business growth through local investment and workforce development initiatives.”
“Other cities have made progress by using targeted incentives, zoning adjustments and strategic partnerships to address these same challenges. I want to bring that same level of focus and collaboration to Columbus. My role will be to help guide those conversations, build consensus and ensure we are making thoughtful decisions that create real, lasting impact.”
What is your occupational and educational background?
“I am a dentist and small-business owner, and I’ve spent my career caring for people and building a practice rooted in trust and service. I’m also a proud veteran, which instilled in me discipline, leadership and a lifelong commitment to serving others.
“I was raised in Columbus and am a graduate of Columbus High School, and my professional path has always been grounded in giving back to this community.”
What is your community involvement and history of leadership roles?
“As a small-business owner and veteran, my leadership has always been rooted in service and responsibility to others. Through my work as a dentist, I’ve built relationships with families across Columbus and seen firsthand the needs our community faces.
“I have also served on multiple boards and been actively involved in efforts that support and strengthen our community. In addition, I’ve served as a mentor and leader, always focused on listening, showing up, and helping others succeed.”
What else should the L-E’s readers know about your campaign?
“This campaign is about stopping the chaos and refocusing the city council on what it is supposed to do. The council’s job is to represent the people, advocate for what citizens want and make sure our voices are heard. It is up to us to bring ideas to the mayor and city staff, work through the budget and find ways to turn those ideas into real progress.
“I am running to be a steady, collaborative leader who listens, brings people together and works to move Columbus forward in a way that reflects the needs and priorities of the people who live here.”
