Bennie Coleman, former candidate for ACC Commission, District 7
Bennie Coleman ran unsuccessfully in 2026 to represent the neighborhoods off Timothy Road and the Beechwood neighborhood off Alps Road on the ACC Commission.
Election Results
2026 Local Election
Ed Tolley — 73.6%
Bennie Coleman — 26.4%
Signature Issues
During his 2026 run, Coleman had a 17-point platform detailing his vision for Athens. It included job creation, especially for the homeless and the poor, supporting Black-owned businesses, trade schools, infrastructure improvements and requiring all wheeled vehicles (including bicycles) to pay fees.
Manufactured homes: Coleman has been a strong advocate of not only allowing manufactured homes in all residential districts, but also of the public purchasing and sale of these homes as a way of promoting affordable housing.
Experience
Coleman ran for mayor in 2022 but had to drop out for health reasons.
Political Affiliation
Coleman takes a mix of Democratic and Republican primary ballots.
Inferred Party: Independent