Sändra Washington announced her candidacy for the Lincoln City Council. Washington was unanimously appointed by the council to fill the vacated at-large seat due to the election of Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird in 2019, and will seek election to a full term in 2021.
Washington stated, “For the last three decades, I’ve been proud to call Lincoln, Nebraska my home. The events that have taken place in our nation – and our community – in the last year have changed the way we go about our lives. An international health crisis and an increased awareness of the inequities in our country shifted the tone of our conversations. What hasn’t changed, though, is my commitment to ensuring everyone has a seat at the table.”
Washington worked with the National Park Service for nearly 25 years, holding many different positions in planning, training and development, environmental compliance, and as a park superintendent before becoming Midwest chief of planning. She retired as associate regional director of the Midwest Region for cultural resources, planning, construction, communications, legislation, and congressional affairs. Washington served multiple terms on the Homestead Girl Scouts Board of Directors, the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, and as a Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commissioner before her appointment to the Lincoln City Council in June 2019.
Lincoln City Council member Jane Raybould stated, “Sändra Washington has a long record of service to our community and when it came time to appoint someone to fill the seat, the choice was clear. Her experience, dedication, and intellect give the people of Lincoln a representative they can count on and believe in. She consistently works to ensure that all who come to the council are heard and respected. Sändra is the leader our city needs right now and she has my full support.”
As a member of the city council, Washington aims to continue her commitment to strengthening Lincoln by driving action that diminishes racial inequity and improves housing affordability, and access to healthcare; preserving the quality of life resources that make Lincoln great – parks, trails, libraries, vibrant arts community; and protecting the public health and safety for every resident of Lincoln. Washington wants everyone to have a place at the table, and a stake in the future of Lincoln.
Lincoln City Council Member Tammy Ward stated, “It has been an honor to serve on the city council with Sändra Washington for the last year. Her thorough approach to the issues and ability to effectively communicate ideas and solutions have made her invaluable to our work and our community. The voters of Lincoln have a great opportunity to keep Sändra working for all of us. She has my full and enthusiastic support.”
Washington holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Ohio State University. She lives with her spouse, Deb Cirksena, their daughter, Bella, and canine companion, Wally.