LYNCHBURG, Va. (WDBJ) – This Tuesday’s election will be a defining moment for the Lynchburg City Council, as several seats are up for grabs in four districts.

With ten candidates in the running, this race could reshape the makeup and direction of the council.

Here’s a quick overview of each district’s contenders and their party affiliations:

Pavilion 1:

• (D)Randy Smith
• (Me) Cameron Howe
• (R) Jacqueline Timmer

Pavilion 2:

• (Me) Tori Howard
• (R) Rod Hubbard
• (D) Sterling Wilder

Pavilion 3:

• (D)James Coleman
• (R) Curt Diemer

Pavilion 4:

• (Right) Chris Faraldi
• (D) April Watson

As Election Day approaches, the race has intensified. Here’s a closer look at each candidate’s platform and vision for Lynchburg:

• (D) Randy Smith, District 1: “For me, the most important thing is getting back to the common good for our community, where we have this social contract to help everyone within our community.”

• (L) Cameron Howe, District 1: “I’m asking people to do something different. I bring to the table practical solutions of civility, respect and common sense.”

• (R) Jacqueline Timmer, District 1: “Lynchburg has a beautiful history. Honoring that past while fostering hope for the future and a shared vision for our community is key.”
• (L) Tori Howard, District 2: “I am ready to create working groups and coalition meetings, making transparency a priority for my district. “I want everyone to know that I am ready to start working.”

• (R) Rod Hubbard, District 2: “I am focused on bringing manufacturing jobs and automotive businesses back to District 2, as well as adjusting zoning codes to welcome new businesses.”

• (D) James Coleman, District 3: “Our city faces the challenge of division, but we can solve these problems together. “I think I have the skills to bring us together.”
• (R) Curt Diemer, District 3: “High taxes are hurting our residents. “My goal is to make Lynchburg more welcoming to businesses and ensure our students are prepared for a successful future.”

• (R) Chris Faraldi, District 4: “I want to drive economic growth, public safety and educational opportunities. “I am confident that these values ​​have broad support in Lynchburg, especially in District 4.”

• (D) April Watson, District 4: “I understand people and know how to listen to them, serve them, and advocate for them. “My approach is person-centered and always puts the needs of the residents first.”

As a member of the city council, you will be tasked with addressing pressing social issues such as affordable housing, public safety and educational resources. How would you prioritize these needs in Lynchburg and what solutions would you bring to the table to ensure impactful change?

april watson spoke of his experience in mental health and nonprofit urban development, calling for more efficient urban partnerships and services to reduce the burden on taxpayers. “We have a great nonprofit network. I would like to expand those relationships and improve cost efficiencies in the city without increasing the burden on taxpayers,” Watson said.

Chris Faraldi highlighted his voting record on affordable housing and education, saying he has consistently delivered “real results” while prioritizing fiscal responsibility, low taxes and parental involvement. “Voters can rely on the fact that I have a record of supporting affordable housing and prioritizing classrooms,” Faraldi said.

Rod Hubbard He said he will incentivize businesses to return to downtown Lynchburg through tax breaks and bringing back traditional educational resources. “Reading skills are declining as screens replace books in classrooms. I think going back to hard books will improve learning and reduce screen time,” Hubbard said.

Randy Smith He said he wants to leverage the council’s influence to bring together community organizations, including nonprofits and private corporations, to address these issues. “City Hall leadership can help marshal resources and better structure our efforts, bringing value to Lynchburg as a whole,” Smith said.

James Coleman He said unity and communication are most important, and emphasized “keeping as much money in residents’ pockets” while providing necessary services. “We provide transportation and other services that define us as a city,” Coleman said, adding that collaboration with local churches and nonprofits could address community needs.

Jacqueline Timmer focused on issues such as public safety and economic development. “Education is an important part of crime prevention. By reintroducing trades to schools and improving workforce readiness, we can address public safety and economic opportunity simultaneously,” Timmer said.

David Diemer He said high taxes are one of Lynchburg’s “most pressing issues,” linking it to residents’ affordability challenges in housing, groceries and daily living costs. “The cost of basic living is too high and it’s hurting people’s ability to live,” Diemer said.

Holder Sterling Wilder He has not responded for comment, although he has cited extensive defense on social media.

With a combination of experience, background and visions for Lynchburg, each candidate hopes to win a spot on the city council, with voting taking place next Tuesday.

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