Second challenger steps up to take on Athens Mayor

There is a second candidate to challenge the reelection bid of Athens Mayor Kelly Girtz: Mara Zuniga says she is running, joining retired Clarke County School District staffer Pearl Hall as announced candidates in the election that is scheduled for May 24.

From the Mara Zuniga campaign… After careful consideration and support from a wide range of Athens voters, Mara Zúñiga is announcing her entrance into the Athens mayoral race.

Mrs. Zúñiga’s decision to run for the office of mayor is based on her growing concern for economic growth of Athens, equitable distribution of community improvement projects, transparency of expenditures, and the safety and security of Athens families and UGA students.

Having grown up in New York, a city with a population of over 8 million people from 180 countries, and as a naturalized citizen, Mara is well acquainted with the needs of a diverse community. New York City is a center for business, finance, politics, entertainment, and culture.

In that cosmopolitan environment, Mara was a successful banker, investor, business owner, homeowner, wife and mother. She continues those roles in Athens.

Mara Zúñiga and her husband have lived in Athens for fifteen years. Their daughter and son attended and graduated with honors from Clarke County Public Schools. Mara is very active in the community and was involved in the school system as a Local School Governance Team (LSGT) member.

As an Athens mayoral candidate, Mara is dedicated to becoming a mayor who brings responsive leadership to City Hall as well as a desire to hear the voices of all the people. As a competent leader, she will listen and look for ways to bring about a much desired Unified Athens.

©2022 Cox Media Group