Vera Elwood Secures Victory in Columbia's Ward 2 Special Election

In a decisive outcome, Vera Elwood has been elected to represent Columbia's Second Ward on the City Council. Elwood secured 56.6% of the vote, totaling 1,480 ballots, surpassing her opponent, Ken Rice, who received 1,130 votes. The special election, held on August 5, 2025, was prompted by the resignation of former Councilwoman Lisa Meyer. ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/politics/your-voice-your-vote/2025/08/05/elwood-lands-ward-2-columbia-city-council-seat-boone-county-tax-freeze-passed/?utm_source=openai))

Elwood, a dedicated librarian, campaigned under the banner of "A Columbia for All," emphasizing the need for fully staffed city departments, expanded public infrastructure, and more accessible streets. Her grassroots approach included extensive door-to-door engagement, reflecting her commitment to community involvement. ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/politics/your-voice-your-vote/2025/08/05/voters-pick-elwood-for-ward-2-columbia-city-council-seat/?utm_source=openai))

Expressing her enthusiasm post-election, Elwood stated, "The first thing I want to do... is I'd really love to see a full report, a full audit of the outsourcing in Columbia's budget. I'd really love to see where that money is going, what it's costing us item by item." ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/news/2025/08/05/elwood-rice-look-to-earn-ward-2-seat-during-tuesdays-special-election/?utm_source=openai))

Her opponent, Ken Rice, serves as the chief operating officer of Pickleman’s Franchising. Rice's campaign, centered on the slogan "less talk, more action," focused on fully staffing police and emergency services, investing in safer neighborhoods, and enhancing resident involvement in decision-making processes. ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/news/2025/08/05/elwood-rice-look-to-earn-ward-2-seat-during-tuesdays-special-election/?utm_source=openai))

Rice received endorsements from former Councilwoman Lisa Meyer, who emphasized the need for objectivity on the council. Elwood, on the other hand, garnered support from LiUNA Local 955, former Ward 2 Councilmembers Andrea Waner and Mike Trapp, Representatives Gregg Bush (District 50) and Adrian Plank (District 47), and the Columbia Professional Firefighters. ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/news/2025/08/05/elwood-rice-look-to-earn-ward-2-seat-during-tuesdays-special-election/?utm_source=openai))

The election saw a voter turnout of 12.58% in Boone County, exceeding the county clerk’s expectations. This engagement underscores the community's vested interest in the direction of local governance. ([abc17news.com](https://abc17news.com/politics/your-voice-your-vote/2025/08/05/elwood-lands-ward-2-columbia-city-council-seat-boone-county-tax-freeze-passed/?utm_source=openai))

Elwood's victory signifies a shift towards inclusive representation and proactive governance in Columbia's Second Ward. Her tenure is anticipated to bring a renewed focus on community-driven initiatives and transparent fiscal management.