Meet the Candidates

Jasmine Preston

For Mayor

Jasmine Preston, born at Columbia Hospital and raised in Columbia and Elizabethtown, has deep roots in her community. With a background in safety management and human resources, Jasmine brings strong leadership skills, practical problem-solving, and a people-first approach to everything she does.

As Chair of the Zoning Hearing Board and a member of other local boards, Jasmine is a strong advocate for the arts and small businesses. She is known for her belief that every resident deserves fair leadership, clear communication, and a sustainable quality of life.

As a mayoral candidate, Jasmine is focused on fighting for affordable housing, safer streets, and smarter government spending. She believes financial responsibility and transparency are key to ensuring every dollar benefits all residents.

Kyle
Ricker

For Borough Council

Kyle found his home in Columbia in 2020, after spending his early years in Virginia and Ohio. Raised by a dedicated teacher and a retired Navy veteran, his upbringing instilled a strong sense of justice, service, and accountability. Now working as a cybersecurity engineer, Kyle enjoys solving complex technical problems—often with creative or unconventional solutions. He's skilled in cost-benefit analysis, risk management, and stretching limited resources to get the job done.

Kyle is eager to work alongside fellow councilmembers and residents to help create the kind of change Columbia needs to thrive, such as improving communication between local government and the community, transparency around budgeting, and facing tough issues head-on—like infrastructure, public safety, and responsible development. Columbia is his home, and making sure people feel secure about its future is at the heart of every decision he makes.

Ethan
Byers

For Borough Council

Ethan Byers is a CG Artist from Columbia, where he is dedicated to fostering a government that prioritizes community. With the support of his friends and neighbors, he campaigns for a system that works for all citizens, not just the wealthy, and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability to ensure a trustworthy government. Ethan is passionate about strengthening his community and providing support to those who need it most.

A Pennsylvania native, Ethan grew up in the iconic Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. His mother, a public school teacher, and his father, a nurse, instilled in him the values of public service and community care. His love for art began at his local library, and he now volunteers with a Philadelphia-based non-profit, where he organizes community events, fosters sponsorships, and mentors emerging artists.

Jeanne Cooper

For Borough Council

Jeanne Cooper is a retired small business owner, vocalist, and longtime community volunteer in Columbia. Since moving here in 2005, she has been dedicated to uplifting the town through historic tours, performances, and local events like the Mac & Cheese competition. Jeanne formerly owned Cooper’s Comics on 5th and Locust, and has served on several local boards including the Merchants Association of Columbia and the PA Furniture Mission.

Jeanne is running for Borough Council to continue serving the community she loves. Her priorities include government transparency, fiscal responsibility, and addressing homelessness with compassion. As a former business owner, she understands the value small businesses bring to Columbia’s economy and identity. Jeanne is passionate about building a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone in Columbia.