Meet Zach Melder

Zach Melder is a Christian, husband, father, churchman, businessman, and community leader dedicated to serving the Lynchburg community.

Originally from Minnesota, Zach built and operated a successful contracting business before relocating to Lynchburg to attend Liberty University. After graduating, he continued his studies at seminary in North Carolina while remaining deeply connected to Lynchburg.

Zach is married to his wife, Lia, and together they are raising their two daughters, Isabel and Sophia. Isabel attends New Covenant Schools, while Sophia brings energy and joy to the family with her curiosity and playful spirit.

He has been actively involved in church leadership, teaching Sunday School, preaching, and helping train pastors internationally. While he values this work, Zach ultimately felt called to serve through business, where he could apply his leadership skills to make a broader impact.

Today, Zach serves as Branch Manager at Alcova Mortgage, where he has led consistent year-over-year growth in closed loan volume. Through his daily work with residents, he has developed a strong understanding of the challenges facing Lynchburg families: rising housing costs, concerns about education, increasing crime, and a sense that city government is often disconnected from the people it serves. As a business leader, Zach understands firsthand the responsibilities of managing operations and supporting employees.

After observing growing division and unproductive conflict within Lynchburg City Council in recent years, Zach felt compelled to step forward and serve. He is not seeking recognition or political advancement, but is committed to restoring focus, civility, and effective leadership with the goal of putting the needs of Lynchburg’s citizens first.