Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine Seeks Re-election

Submitted by Tameika Isaac Devine

Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine, who has championed safety and security, business and community development, wellness and job opportunities for all Columbians, wants to continue the significant progress that has been achieved in these areas. She filed today for the At-Large seat for Columbia City Council. The election is November 5, 2013.

“This is a critical time in Columbia’s development with challenging social and economic issues,” said Councilwoman Devine. “I feel strongly about a vision that includes all Columbians and I am committed to addressing important issues that permeate our lives.”

Mrs. Devine, the mother of two girls and wife of Richland One School Board Chairman Jamie Devine, has been a leader on developing youth programs in Columbia; increasing awareness about the impact of domestic violence; promoting health and wellness; creating educational initiatives, and building Columbia’s economy.

“We are growing again, and it’s because, as a city, we have created an atmosphere that encourages growth – not just downtown but in all areas of our city,” said Devine.

Mrs. Devine was the first African-American woman and one of the youngest members when she was first elected At-Large to Columbia City Council in 2002. Since then she has steadfastly represented all of Columbia, which is one of the reasons she wanted to represent the community in an At-Large capacity.

During her tenure, she has been the voice for important issues.  Her work with youth development and anti-gang activity has been at the forefront. “We must give our young people opportunities and a safe environment in which to grow – one that will allow all of us to benefit.”

Mrs. Devine led the efforts for the launch of the Police Athletic League (PAL) and for an anti-gang study and initiative. She spearheads the Youth Violence Prevention Week initiative.  She helped establish the city’s Criminal Domestic Violence Task Force and was the creator of the City’s annual domestic violence awareness walk that has grown to include approximately 2,000 supporters.  She also worked diligently to obtain a grant for a special prosecutor for domestic violence cases that are tried in Municipal Court.  Devine led the establishment of “Together We Can,” an education initiative to enhance student achievement.  Through this initiative the “Together We Can Read” program was developed and has impacted almost 10,000 children since its inception.

In response to South Carolina’s increasing number of health disparities, she then initiated the “Ultimate Wellness Challenge” to help stem the impact of obesity, and she co-chairs the city’s “Let’s Move! Columbia” initiative with Columbia’s First Lady, Judge DeAndrea Benjamin.  Let’s Move! Columbia targets youth obesity and promotes awareness of healthy eating habits and physical fitness.

Mrs. Devine has not shied away from controversial issues, from homelessness to historic preservation, working to find a balance that builds a better Columbia for all.

“These are not simple issues, but decisions with consequences,” said Councilwoman Devine, “and my positions have been to do what is right for Columbia, not just what is expedient.”

For more information visit www.tameikaisaacdevine.com.