Why I’m Running
I’m running for Mayor of McDonough because I believe our great city is ready for leadership that brings people together, listens with intention, and plans for a future we can all be proud of. I am proud to say that I am from McDonough, and of our community, our diversity, our ingenuity and our grace.
As a lifelong resident and four term veteran of the McDonough City Council, I’ve seen the strength and spirit of our community first hand. I’m committed to supporting our neighborhoods, uplifting small businesses, addressing homelessness with compassion, and guiding smart, balanced growth that reflects the values of our residents.
McDonough deserves a mayor who is present, synergized, and focused on real progress. I’m ready to lead with heart, purpose and a vision that includes everyone.
"McDonough deserves a mayor who is present, synergized and focused on real progress."
Kamali Varner
Meet "Kam"
Born and raised in McDonough, I’ve dedicated my life to serving the community that shaped me. As a four-term City Council member representing District 4, I’ve led with integrity, vision, and a deep commitment to progress. Now, I’m ready to bring that same energy citywide in my campaign for Mayor of McDonough.
Elected at 29, I made history as one of the city’s youngest elected officials. My leadership has delivered meaningful change; from championing economic growth and preserving community identity, to founding the city’s first Youth Advisory Council and helping bring the Shaquille O’Neal Boys & Girls Club to the city of McDonough and District 4.
Rooted in faith and family, I’m a proud graduate of Henry County High School and an active member of Shiloh Baptist Church. With a Bachelors of Science in Organizational Leadership and Masters in Public Administration, I’ve built bridges across generations and neighborhoods to ensure every voice is heard.
Whether spotlighting local history through the “Blacksville” documentary or collaborating with partners across government and community, my work has always been about lifting McDonough higher.
My greatest title remains “Mom” to three incredible sons who inspire me every day to build a brighter future for all of us.
“Made History as one of the Youngest Elected Officials ever in McDonough’s storied history”
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Kam's Platform
I believe in a McDonough where every family feels safe, supported, and proud to call this city home. Over the past 13 years on City Council — and two terms as Mayor Pro Tem — I’ve seen what makes our city strong, and I know where we can do better.
Here are my top priorities for building a brighter future together:
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Strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the community.
Ensure first responders have the tools to keep neighborhoods safe.
Work with nonprofits and churches to create real solutions to homelessness.
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Repair and maintain roads, sidewalks, and intersections.
Plan smart growth to manage McDonough’s future.
Invest in solutions that ease traffic and improve daily commutes.
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Keep public spaces, parks, and neighborhoods clean and safe.
Expand recreation and youth programs for all ages.
Celebrate our history while building a city we can all be proud of.
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Support and grow McDonough’s small businesses.
Create new jobs and opportunities for working families.
Keep more of our dollars local to strengthen the economy.
Proven Results
Leadership You Can Trust. Results You Can See
Over the past 13 years on City Council, including two terms as Mayor Pro Tem, I’ve worked hard to put McDonough first. I believe leadership is about listening, taking action, and delivering real results for the people you serve.
Here are some of the accomplishments I’m most proud of:
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Completed the McDonough Comprehensive Plan, setting the vision for our city’s future.
Expanded Avalon Park with a splash pad, new playground, and amphitheatre for families.
Installed LED lighting throughout the city to improve safety and efficiency.
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Secured a Fire Department ISO 2 Rating, improving emergency services and lowering insurance costs for residents.
Lowered the millage rate from 4.922 to 3.033 over the past four years, putting money back in taxpayers’ pockets.
Authorized a bond for affordable workforce and senior housing, creating more opportunities for residents to live and thrive here.
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Founded the McDonough Youth Council, the first of its kind in Henry County, giving young people a voice in local government.
Partnered with Henry County to bring the Boys & Girls Club to McDonough, providing resources and mentorship for our youth.
These accomplishments are just the beginning. As Mayor, I’ll continue to bring responsive, community-centered leadership that builds on this foundation and moves McDonough forward.
“With Your Help We Will Continue to Prosper”
McDonough City Council
Our City
Born and raised in McDonough, I know every part of our city has a story to tell. From our neighborhoods, to our schools and our businesses, each piece makes McDonough the community we’re proud to call home. Together, we’ll build on that pride and create a future worthy of all of us.
Map Key: Purple: District 1, Yellow: District 2, Green: District 3, Blue: District 4, Red Outline: City of McDonough