Two candidates have qualified to run for Statesboro City Council District 1 in the November 4, 2025 election, setting up a rematch of last year’s special election. Incumbent Councilmember Tangie Johnson, who won the seat in 2024 following the resignation of former Councilmember Phil Boyum, will face challenger John Grotheer. The winner will serve a full four-year term.
Background
In the September 2024 special election, Johnson secured 1,021 votes—more than 50 percent of the total—defeating both Grotheer, who earned 378 votes, and Ken Jackson. Because Johnson received a majority, no runoff was required. Her victory allowed her to complete Boyum’s unexpired term, which ends this December.
Johnson emphasizes progress, growth, and inclusion
Johnson said she is proud to officially launch her campaign for re-election, adding that her focus has been “putting the needs of the community first and making progress that benefits every resident.”
She pointed to quality-of-life improvements, economic growth, and inclusive decision-making as hallmarks of her time on council. “From quality-of-life improvements to economic growth, my leadership has helped strengthen Statesboro’s foundation as a thriving, inclusive city,” she said.
Among the accomplishments she highlighted was the recent groundbreaking at Whitesville Park, a long-awaited project she described as a symbol of investment in District 1. “This will bring much-needed recreational space, family-friendly amenities, and renewed energy to the heart of District 1,” Johnson said.
Johnson also underscored the city’s recognition as the 24th best city in the nation to start a small business, crediting the council’s efforts to create a supportive climate for entrepreneurs and job growth.
“My goal is clear,” she added. “To keep building a city where everyone can thrive — a place we can all call home, raise a family, grow a business, and enjoy life together.”
Beyond her council role, Johnson currently serves as the Coordinator for Records and Compliance in the Office of Human Resources at Georgia Southern University, where she ensures the university’s practices meet the highest standards. From 2010 to 2017, she worked as a police officer, a role she says reflects her unwavering commitment to public safety and community well-being.
Active in her faith community, she is a member of United Fellowship Worship Center, and she co-chairs the Statesboro Housing Authority, working to improve housing conditions and foster community development.
Johnson is married to Chadwick Johnson and is a proud mother of three.
Grotheer calls for transparency and fiscal restraint
Grotheer, who has a professional background in city and county government finance and administration, said his campaign will focus on transparency, fiscal accountability, and protecting quality of life for residents.
“I am running for Statesboro City Council District 1 and believe in an open, transparent government, one that is interested in listening, being responsive, and genuinely committed to serving all the citizens of the city of Statesboro,” Grotheer said in his campaign release.
He also emphasized protecting the city’s environmental resources, preserving historic sites, and seeking alternatives to raising property taxes, especially for seniors facing economic challenges.
Grotheer’s background includes 20 years in local government, serving as a City Clerk, Finance Director, Department Head of Administration, and Interim County Administrator. He holds degrees from Albany State University, Savannah State University, Troy University, and a certificate in Local Government Management from the University of Georgia.
“If given the opportunity, I will give you my commitment to listen and be your voice as we all work together to plan for a better future, preserve the character and charm of our beautiful city, and maintain the quality of life in our great city of Statesboro,” he said.
What’s Next
District 1 voters will choose between Johnson and Grotheer in the city’s general election on November 4, 2025. The winner will represent the district for a full term on the five-member council, helping guide Statesboro’s growth and policy decisions over the next four years.
