By City of Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther has announced that Columbus-based journalist Tracy Townsend will join his leadership team as Deputy Chief of Staff for Community Affairs beginning October 5, 2026. Townsend was a longtime television news anchor and award-winning journalist at WBNS 10TV and is a recognized community service leader.
“Tracy brings deep knowledge of Columbus earned as a respected journalist and through her commitment to community service and advocacy,” said Mayor Ginther.
“Her knowledge and experience will continue to serve our city well as connections with residents, neighborhood leaders and community partners are strengthened and we continue to focus on safety, transportation and housing.”
As Deputy Chief of Staff for Community Affairs, Townsend will provide executive leadership and coordination across Columbus Public Health, CelebrateOne, Recreation and Parks, and the Department of Neighborhoods, while strengthening the administration’s engagement with residents and community partners.
“I’ve spent much of my career listening to people across Columbus, learning about their experiences and sharing the stories that shape our community,” said Townsend.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to serve this city in a new way, working alongside residents, neighborhoods and community partners to help strengthen the connections between people and their city government.”
Townsend has been involved in organizations including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and Columbus (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, an international women’s service organization. She is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, the Board of Governors for the Ohio Valley Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and The Ohio State University Student Life Alumni Advisory Board.
Townsend’s efforts to uplift women have been recognized by the Central Ohio Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and by Women for Economic Leadership and Development. As an advocate for women’s health, she has served on the Board of Directors for Komen Columbus.
Mayor Ginther also named Craig Conley to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff for Enterprise Services and Director of Inclusive Growth and Innovation, expanding his leadership role within the administration. Conley will provide executive oversight of the city’s supplier diversity, small business and economic development, innovation, and sustainability efforts. He will also support operations of the city’s Departments of Civil Service, Human Resources and Technology. This role brings together key internal operations and inclusive growth initiatives to advance the city’s efforts to create opportunities, modernize operations, and support Columbus’ continued growth.
In addition, Randy Borntrager has joined the Mayor’s Office as Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications and Marketing after leading public affairs and communications at the city’s Department of Public Service for seven years.
Together, these appointments strengthen coordination across the administration, deepen our connection to residents, and will position the city to deliver effectively on the priorities ahead.
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