Zachary mayoral candidates focus on finish line with runoffs this weekend

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The people of Zachary have some decisions to make on who their next Mayor will be.

Runoff elections will determine that on Saturday.

Councilman Francis Nezianya and Police Chief David McDavid are battling it out for the Mayor Seat in Zachary. It’s an Independent versus a Republican in what’s expected to be a tight race. BRProud has spoken to both just ahead of the election.

David McDavid and Francis Nezianya are going head to head to become Zachary’s next mayor.

“I know how this system works, you know, I have a great relationship with the city employees. So, it would be a great and easy transition for me,” stated Nezianya.

“I know the residents of Zachary,” stated McDavid. “They know my work ethic and know I’m going to get out and work hard to do the things that we need to do to make this a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

Every vote will count after McDavid garnered 45% of the vote and Nezianya with 35% in the primary election, but this time voter turnout could be low.

“It’s a big concern, you know, so I basically will be trying to figure out how we are going to motivate the voters,” said Nezianya.

“We’re making phone calls to make sure the voters are getting out. We’re using social media, walking the streets, or coming up with Facebook events,” added McDavid.

This election could determine the trajectory of this thriving community within East Baton Rouge Parish.

“I plan to continue to support the law enforcement plan to continue to expand and improve our sewage lines. I also plan to continue to build on economic development in our city,” Nezianya explained.

“We’ve got to have smart growth in Zachary, development, and more officers here. We’re also shorthanded, but also looking at our flood protection here and out traffic,” said McDavid.

Despite a few claims of smear campaigns going on both candidates believe it’s important to stay focused on the finish line.

“I plan to continue to run a clean campaign,” said the councilman. “You know, that is not my style to argue with people.”

“Any tactics… I’m not getting into it,” stated the police chief. “I’m focused on this race. That’s my main concern right now.”

Saturday is the day the people will make their decision.

“I hope to let the voters know what I stand for, and I pray that we make wise decisions,” said Nezianya.

“We can’t sit at home and play Monday morning politician, we have to get out and vote,” stated McDavid.

The polls will open on Saturday at 7 a.m. and will close at 8 p.m.