Daniela Beckett – City Council Candidate

What motivated you to run at this moment in Westerville’s development?
What motivated me to run is seeing how quickly Westerville is growing and realizing how important it is to have leaders who put people first. I love this city and want to make sure as we grow, we don’t lose what makes Westerville special—our sense of community, safety, and affordability. I’ve seen decisions being made that don’t always reflect the values or priorities of our residents, and I believe it’s time to bring common sense, transparency, and accountability back to City Council. I’m running to ensure Westerville continues to be a safe, welcoming, and family-centered place for generations to come.

What have you heard from residents that’s challenged or reshaped how you view the city’s priorities?
Talking with residents has reinforced how much people love Westerville, but it’s also opened my eyes to the challenges many are feeling. I’ve heard concerns about affordability, and how fast the city is growing without the right infrastructure in place. These conversations have reminded me that City Council’s priorities must always reflect the everyday experiences of our residents — not outside agendas. Hearing directly from families, seniors, and business owners has strengthened my belief that our focus must be on safety, affordability, and preserving the character that makes Westerville home.

What do you believe Westerville needs to hold onto as it continues to grow?
As Westerville continues to grow, we must hold onto the small-town character, sense of community, and values that make this city so special. Our neighborhoods should remain safe, family-friendly, and welcoming. We need to preserve our parks, local traditions, and the connections between residents, businesses, and community organizations that make people proud to call Westerville home. Growth is important, but it should never come at the expense of who we are. We can plan smartly while keeping our focus on people, families, and the shared values that built this community.

How do you approach decisions that create winners and losers, like development projects that benefit one part of the city over another?
I believe every decision should be made with fairness, transparency, and the best interest of the entire community in mind. When development projects create potential winners and losers, it’s the Council’s job to listen to all sides and ensure the process is open and balanced. I approach these situations by focusing on long-term benefits for residents — safety, quality of life, and fiscal responsibility — rather than short-term gains. Growth should serve the whole city, not just one area, and every resident should feel their voice matters in the decisions shaping Westerville’s future.

What does a balanced approach to growth look like to you?
A balanced approach to growth means planning responsibly so Westerville can welcome new families and businesses without losing the character and affordability that make our city special. Growth should align with our infrastructure — roads, schools, and public safety — and not outpace them. It also means supporting local businesses, maintaining our parks, and protecting the quality of life in every neighborhood. To me, balanced growth is about putting people first — making sure development serves the community, not the other way around.

When you think about the East of Africa project, what’s your biggest hope—and your biggest concern?
My biggest hope for the East of Africa project is that it brings cultural and economic value to Westerville while supporting balanced, people-centered growth. My biggest concern is zoning and transparency during the development process. Projects like this must align with our city’s plans and infrastructure — and include clear communication with residents every step of the way.

How do you respond to residents who feel that older neighborhoods are being left behind?
I understand those concerns, and I agree that older neighborhoods deserve the same attention and investment as newer developments. These areas are the heart of Westerville — where our city’s character and history were built. I’ll advocate for balanced planning that supports revitalization while preserving the charm and affordability that make these communities special.

What’s one way you would bring more public insight or influence into large-scale planning decisions?
Large-scale projects should be transparent from the start, with regular updates and open communication so residents can weigh in and influence decisions that affect their neighborhoods. Engaging the community ensures growth is balanced, responsible, and reflective of the people who call Westerville home.

How do you see the city’s current zoning code affecting the range of housing types available, including for first-time buyers and renters?
Westerville’s current zoning code limits the variety of housing types available, which can make it harder for first-time buyers, young families, and renters to find homes that fit their needs. The city has an opportunity to expand options through thoughtful zoning updates that allow diverse housing types, including smaller homes, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units, without compromising neighborhood character. By balancing responsible growth with flexibility, we can ensure Westerville remains accessible to residents at all stages of life while supporting a vibrant and sustainable community.

How should city leaders weigh resident identity and neighborhood character against financial returns?
City leaders must put resident identity and neighborhood character first, but also recognize that financial resources are necessary to maintain and improve Westerville. Growth and development should enhance the city’s long-term livability while generating revenue that supports public safety, infrastructure, and affordability for residents. Profit should never come at the expense of our neighborhoods or values; instead, it should serve the people who live here and help Westerville thrive for everyone.

What kind of partnership should exist between council and residents, not just legally, but in spirit?
Council and residents should work together in a spirit of trust, transparency, and open communication. A strong partnership means residents feel heard and included, and councilmembers are accountable, accessible, and responsive to the community they serve.

What would success look like for you as a council member, in both policy and relationships?
Success as a councilmember means delivering results that improve the daily lives of Westerville residents—safe neighborhoods, responsible growth, well-maintained infrastructure, and affordable living. Equally important is building trust and strong relationships with residents, listening to their concerns, and ensuring their voices are reflected in every decision. True success is a city that thrives while its residents feel heard, valued, and proud to call Westerville home.

What do you want future residents to thank this council for?
I want future residents to thank this council for keeping Westerville safe, affordable, and welcoming, while managing growth responsibly. I want them to see a city that values families, supports local businesses, maintains strong infrastructure, and preserves the character and quality of life that makes Westerville home. Most of all, I want them to feel that their voices were heard and their community was put first.

What was not asked in this questionnaire that needs to be answered?
One area not directly addressed in this questionnaire is the need for City Council to remain focused on the real priorities of residents. Decisions should center on safety, roads, affordability, and ensuring Westerville remains a place where families and young people can live and thrive. We need to stop bringing personal agendas or one-party priorities into city government and instead make choices that reflect the needs of the entire community. Transparency, accountability, and resident involvement are essential to achieving this.