City Councilman Sam P. Johnson

Sam Johnson is a lifelong Columbia resident dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods, promoting economic growth, and enhancing quality of life for all residents. He currently serves as CEO of Civint, a national municipal advisory and strategy firm that helps businesses and nonprofits navigate local government and implement community-focused initiatives.

Johnson is widely recognized for his leadership in public/private partnerships and municipal strategy, having been featured in P3 Bulletin for guiding complex infrastructure projects and advising on airport developments nationwide. He has served on the U.S. Conference of Mayors Enterprises Board, where he has counseled mayors and the private sector across the country on governance and city-building best practices. His service has extended statewide through his service as chair the South Carolina State Museum Board, the University of South Carolina Board of Governors, and the board of SC Women in Leadership.

A graduate of Spring Valley High School and the University of South Carolina School of Law, Johnson began his career in public service in the South Carolina House of Representatives and later in the Mayor’s Office under Steve Benjamin, where he helped secure more than $1 billion in economic investment for Columbia. He played a key role in initiatives such as My Brother’s Keeper Columbia, the Famously Hot New Year celebration, and the BullStreet District redevelopment.

In addition to his professional and civic work, Johnson has served on nonprofit boards including Harvest Hope Food Bank, the South Carolina State Museum, chaired the board of SC Afterschool Alliance, Nickelodeon Theatre, Trustus Theatre, and Senior Resources.

He and his wife, Ashley, an attorney, are raising their two daughters, Kennedy and Olivia, in Columbia.