Columbia Board of Education member announces candidacy for mayor

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A member of the Columbia Schools Board of Education has announced his plans to run for mayor of Columbia.

David Seamon released Thursday morning he expects to run for the position in next year's election. He was elected to the board of education in June 2020.

According to a press release from Seamon, he said as mayor he wants to build a vibrant future for the city and work toward a welcome environment for all.

"Let's make sure City Hall is open to people who don't feel like the city works for them," said Seamon.

Seamon is a graduate of Rock Bridge High School and Columbia College. He's also a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

According to his press release, Seamon would be Columbia's first Black mayor if he's elected.

Seamon said he's currently collecting petition signatures for the mayoral race.

He faces a potential challenger in the election after Barbara Buffaloe announced plans earlier this month to run for mayor.

Candidates can file for election on Tuesday. The deadline to file for candidacy is no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 11, 2022.

Election day is April 5, 2022.