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From the Candidate

We enjoy advantages most communities can only wish for: a major research university in the heart of downtown; a regional medical center; an extensive river system that runs through downtown, providing recreational, commercial and housing opportunities; an educated and motivated workforce; and affordable land and housing, just to name a few.

Please join me as I reform the way Columbia’s city government works.

Biography

Kirkman Finlay III is a native of Columbia, SC and, other than his time away to attend school, has lived here his entire life.

As a small business owner and entrepreneur, Kirkman farms and manages Doc's BBQ on Shop Road and Pawley's Front Porch in Five Points. Kirkman, also a principal in several other local businesses, has created over 65 jobs in our community. He farms approximately 6,000 acres which are planted primarily in row crops of soy beans, corn, and wheat.

Conservation and traditional land use are important issues for our state and for the city of Columbia. Kirkman has been an integral part of placing 3,000 acres under easement. These easements allow future generations to enjoy the natural beauty of our state.

In 1997 Kirkman married Kathleen Ravenel from Charleston, SC and they are raising three daughters: Kay, age 9; Mary Fleming (May May), age 7; and Hattie, age 6. Prior to beginning their family, Kathleen taught kindergarten at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, where she still serves as a substitute teacher. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Girl Scouts and is an avid tennis player.

Dr. Mary Fleming Finlay, Kirkman's mother, was a biology professor at Benedict College for over 20 years and is now retired. His late father, Kirkman Finlay Jr., was a founding member of the law firm Boyd, Knowlton, Tate, & Finlay, known today as Haynesworth, Sinkler & Boyd. Kirkman Finlay Jr. served for a total of 12 years on Columbia City Council: 8 years as Mayor and 4 years as a councilmember. The late Mayor Finlay is widely credited for creating the Columbia we enjoy today; his vision led to the development of The Vista.

Public service is not the only way that Kirkman Finlay serves his community. His primary interest is in initiatives that benefit children and families. Kathleen and Kirkman support the local arts community, and believe that Columbia needs to seize the opportunity to build on our regions art and cultural infrastructure. The goal is to create a diverse and vibrant community and a world class city.

Kirkman's involvement in the community includes serving on the boards of Palmetto Health Foundation, Central Carolina Community Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, and the Boy Scouts of America and donating time and resources to many local charities. He is co-founder and co-chair of The Gray Horton Scholarship at the University of Virginia.

Election Info

Date

April 6, 2010

Polling places

Click here for a list of polling places

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