Loganville Voters Elect New City Council and Approve Homestead Exemption

Loganville, GA — Loganville voters turned out Tuesday to elect three members to the City Council and to decide on a key ballot measure that will affect homeowners across the city. In a competitive race featuring five candidates, residents chose Melanie Long, Wes Johnson, and Keith Colquitt as the top three vote-getters for Loganville City Council.

 

The results were as follows:

• Melanie Long — 944 votes

• Wes Johnson — 934 votes

• Keith Colquitt — 799 votes

• Toyin Wakil Olaoluwa — 638 votes

• Joseph “Joey” Bastian — 613 votes

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Each of the newly elected council members will play an important role in helping guide the city through a period of continued growth and development. The incoming council will take office alongside newly elected Mayor Branden Whitfield in January, forming a leadership team tasked with addressing infrastructure needs, maintaining fiscal responsibility, and continuing Loganville’s efforts to strengthen its community identity.

 

A Diverse Field of Candidates

The five-way race reflected a diversity of experience and ideas, with each candidate bringing a unique perspective to the table.

 

Melanie Long, who has previously served on city boards and community initiatives, campaigned on open communication and responsible growth. Her focus on public engagement and collaborative planning resonated with residents eager to see more opportunities for community input.

 

Wes Johnson, a familiar face in civic discussions, emphasized supporting public safety, maintaining essential services, and ensuring Loganville’s downtown revitalization benefits both residents and businesses.

 

Keith Colquitt highlighted infrastructure improvements and economic development, with attention to preserving the city’s small-town character while creating opportunities for future generations.

 

Though Toyin Wakil Olaoluwa and Joseph “Joey” Bastian did not secure seats this cycle, both earned recognition for their active participation in city affairs and dedication to community service. Their campaigns added important voices to the discussion on fiscal priorities, transparency, and civic engagement.

 

Homestead Exemption Approved

Alongside the council election, voters also approved a measure to establish a Homestead Exemption for Loganville homeowners. The exemption provides property tax relief on primary residences, ensuring that residents benefit directly from local fiscal policy.

 

Approval of the measure reflects the community’s focus on balancing growth with affordability, as Loganville continues to attract new residents while maintaining its hometown appeal.

 

What’s Next for the Council

With the role set at City Council, Loganville’s leadership enters 2026 with a renewed sense of collaboration and purpose. The incoming council will be responsible for addressing several key initiatives already under discussion, including roadway improvements, zoning updates, and long-term capital planning.

 

The freshly elected officials are expected to participate in planning sessions early in the year, setting priorities and aligning with city staff on strategic goals.

 

The results of this year’s election underscore the strength of local participation in Loganville. From seasoned community volunteers to first-time candidates, the field demonstrated a shared commitment to the city’s progress and well-being.

 

As Loganville looks ahead to 2026, voters can expect to see the new mayor and council work together to keep the city growing responsibly — preserving the charm that defines Loganville while building for the future.