Rachel James is a dedicated public servant, nonprofit leader, and proud Columbia Heights neighbor who believes local government should be rooted in relationships, trust, and real results. First elected to the City Council in 2022, Rachel now serves as Council President, representing more than 21,800 residents. She is known for building strong partnerships with state and federal leaders, advocating directly at the Capitol, and securing critical funding to support local priorities. She has also taken on key leadership roles, including Chair of the Economic Development Authority and liaison to Planning Commission, Charter Commission, and Sustainability Commission, always focused on moving Columbia Heights forward in thoughtful, community-centered ways.

Rachel’s leadership is grounded in both experience and a hands-on approach. She helped lead the city’s search for a new city manager, has overseen economic development efforts, and worked as the Fire Protection Council liaison. She also brings valuable community-based experience, including six years serving on the Multicultural Advisory Committee to the Columbia Heights Police Department, helping strengthen relationships and trust between the department and the diverse community it serves. But just as important to Rachel are the everyday connections: listening to neighbors, supporting small businesses, and bringing people together to solve problems. Her collaborative style reflects her belief that the best solutions come from working side by side with the community.

Rachel’s commitment to community started early. She grew up on a small dairy farm in rural Minnesota in a big family where everyone pitched in and looked out for one another. Her family relied at times on the local food shelf and school meal programs, experiences that shaped her lifelong passion for food security and supporting families. She later moved to Minneapolis for college, earning a degree in Business Administration and Urban Ministry, and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Community Ministry Leadership. Rachel built her career in nonprofit leadership, ministry, and higher education, including 12 years serving at First Lutheran Church of Columbia Heights working with children, youth, and families. She and her husband Leo moved to Columbia Heights in 2010 and quickly got involved, becoming block captains, hosting neighborhood gatherings, and putting down deep roots. Their children attend Columbia Heights High School, and as a parent, Rachel is deeply invested in the future of the community. Today, you’ll still find her at the Columbia Heights Library, walking at Silverwood Park, or eating at Taco Loco, because for Rachel, Columbia Heights is home.