Q&A with Chiara Richardson, 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 Richardson:
Why are you running for this position?
“I’m running for District 7 because I believe in the strength and potential of this community and the role leadership plays in shaping it. Families are working hard but still facing challenges, neighborhoods feel overlooked, and too many people don’t feel heard. My work has always been about connecting people to resources, telling stories that matter, and helping organizations better serve their communities. I’m stepping forward to bring that same approach to city government, focused on practical solutions, clear communication, and making sure my neighbors are informed, heard, and included in the decisions that affect their daily lives.”
Why should District 7 residents vote for you?
“I believe voters are ready for something new, and it would be an honor to serve District 7 with leadership that is thoughtful, responsive, and rooted in the community. I’m not new to this work. I’ve spent my career supporting schools, nonprofits, and community initiatives, helping people navigate systems and turn ideas into action. I’m committed to being accessible and honest about what can and cannot be done. This campaign is rooted in the people, and I intend to govern the same way, with transparency, accountability, and a focus on everyday quality of life.”
What is the most significant problem you want to address, and what will be your solution if you are elected?
“One of the most significant issues in District 7 is the condition of our neighborhoods, specifically blight and illegal dumping. These issues impact safety, property values, and how people feel about where they live. My focus is on creating clean, safe, and thriving neighborhoods by strengthening sanitation services, improving code enforcement, and working directly with residents to identify problem areas and respond more quickly. When we take care of our neighborhoods, we support the people who live in them and set the foundation for everything else to improve.”
What is your occupational and educational background?
“I am a communications professional, storyteller, and creative strategist. My work focuses on helping organizations strengthen their messaging, connect with communities, and operate more effectively. I have over 15 years of experience in education, where I’ve managed student data systems, managed federal and state compliance reporting, led enrollment strategy, and worked as a Parent and Family Engagement Coordinator, building strong relationships between schools and families. I’ve also supported leadership teams with operations and community engagement. I attended Georgia Southern University where I studied Communications.”
What is your community involvement and history of leadership roles?
“My commitment to community started early through advocacy and civic engagement. I’ve led voter registration efforts, supported political campaigns, and worked with organizations focused on education policy and equity. Professionally, I’ve helped schools and nonprofits connect with families and improve access to resources. I am a founding member of Fountain City Slam and have led writing workshops for youth in the Muscogee County School District and participants in Drug Court programs. I’ve also served locally as a teaching artist with FAB Arts/Columbus RiverCenter, the Liberty Theatre, the Columbus Museum, and the Springer Opera House, using storytelling and performance to engage and uplift the community. My leadership has always been rooted in service, whether behind the scenes or directly with the people.”
What else should the L-E’s readers know about you and your campaign?
“This campaign is rooted in real life, not politics as usual. I understand what it means to navigate challenges, balance responsibilities, and still show up for your community. I’m not running to check a box or move to the next opportunity. I’m running because I care deeply about this district and the people in it. My goal is to bring leadership that is present, practical, and people-centered. I want my neighbors to feel like they have someone who listens, communicates clearly, and follows through on what matters most.”