City leader leaves his mark on Columbia

by Carah Hart, posted Feb. 16, 2010

After 15 years of service and dedication, Darwin Hindman’s term is coming to an end as mayor for the city of Columbia, Mo.

Hindman was born and raised in the city he has represented for 15 years. His parents were “Skippy” Darwin Hindman and Virginia Hindman.

He attended high school at University Lab School, now known as Townsend Hall on the MU campus, and studied law at the University of Missouri school of law. After earning his law degree, Hindman worked as a lawyer with an emphasis in recreational and environmental issues.

When the opportunity to run for mayor came his way, Hindman decided to seize it, thinking it a great chance to make a difference in the community.

“I never sought a career in politics,” Hindman said.

Little did Hindman know that he would ultimately serve 15 years as a political figure.

Looking back on his years in office, Hindman said he has witnessed many changes in Columbia’s population and a substantial increase in square miles of the city to accommodate the population growth.

He has worked to improve downtown Columbia, making it safer for the citizens who take advantage of the festivities held there. He has also supported the increase in Columbia’s recreation venues such as the numerous walking trails and the Activity and Recreation Center (known as the ARC) on Ash Street.

“It had always been a dream of mine to open an indoor recreational center to promote the safety and well-being of our community,” Hindman said.

Hindman has also had the opportunity to travel during his 15-year term. He has traveled to China, Korea, England, the Netherlands and Switzerland experiencing the culture that these countries have to offer.
  
He feels that Columbia has a diverse culture, as well. He supports MU and thinks that everyone should take the opportunity to meet students who have traveled from other countries to be a part of the university.

Hindman said he hoped to provide a city where students are happy and proud of where they live.

The election for a new mayor is quickly approaching, and Hindman suggests the new mayor should be prepared to pick-and-choose what conflict they will to deal with daily. He believes the new mayor should like people and be an honest source of information for citizens of Columbia.

“One of the critical activities of the state that needs to be upheld is to continue educating young people through extension; that will determine the future,” Hindman said.

Post term, Hindman, his wife Axie and chocolate lab Loki are looking forward to some time together. Hindman enjoys reading, playing the mandolin and taking advantage of Columbia’s recreation. He hopes to spend more time with his wife and experience more of Columbia.

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