January 2020
Welcome to Community Corner !
Community Corner provides residents with information about upcoming events, City meetings, City recognition, fostering animals and the Columbia City Council Vision Statement.

In case you missed any City events in the past month, Community Corner gives a little insight on past events to give you an opportunity to stay connected with the City of Columbia.
Happening in January:
City Council to be sworn in
A swearing-in ceremony will be held for two re-elected City Council members and one newly elected City Council member.

Who: The following Council members will be sworn in:
-     Councilman Howard Duvall (re-elected /at-large)
-     Councilman Edward McDowell (re-elected /district 2)
-     Councilman-Elect Will Brennan (newly elected /district 3)

When: January 7, 2020 at 11 AM

Where: City Hall, 1737 Main Street, in Council Chambers (3rd floor)

For more information, please contact the Office of the City Clerk at 803-545-3045.
City Offices Closed for MLK Day


  In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the City of Columbia offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, 2020. Emergency police, fire and rescue services may be reached by calling 9-1-1. 

Columbia Compass Public Meetings
The City of Columbia will be hosting four public meetings to present the draft of Columbia Compass, the 10-year update to the City’s comprehensive plan. Brief presentations will be giving by the project team during each meeting at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. These meetings will also provide an opportunity for members of the public to engage with the plan and provide feedback. Four identical public meetings will be held as follows:

·          Wednesday, January 8, 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Richland Library Main, 1431 Assembly Street

·          Thursday, January 9, 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Richland Library St. Andrews, 2916 Broad River Road

·          Tuesday, January 14, 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Richland Library Southeast, 7421 Garners Ferry Road

·          Thursday, January 16, 5:30pm – 7:30pm, Busby Street Community Center, 1735 Busby Street

The planning process has resulted in a vision and draft document which can help guide City Council as they Envision 2036 – when Columbia will celebrate its 250 th anniversary. Elements of the plan research and analysis include Columbia’s population, natural resources, land use, transportation, housing, community facilities, cultural resources and economic development. 

For continued updates about Columbia Compass: Envision 2036, visit www.columbiacompass.org and follow us @ColaCompass on Facebook or Twitter.

You can also contact the Planning and Development Services Department at 803-545-3222. Please visit our website to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates about the plan. 
January Pet Adoption Special
WHAT: Columbia Animal Services will be having reduced adoption rates to celebrate national “cuddle up day.” All dogs and cats will be $6 on January 4 th , January 6 th , and January 7 th .

WHO: Columbia Animal Services

WHEN: Saturday, January 4, 2020, Monday, January 6, 2020 and Tuesday, January 7, 2020

WHERE: 127 Humane Lane, Columbia, SC 29209

Note: Visit other pets available for adoption at the Columbia Animal Shelter, 127 Humane Lane. Visit www.columbiasc.net/animal-services or call 803-776-PETS for more information.
 
All of our pets need loving homes! To view other animals available for adoption, visit Petfinder.com Please refer to the ID number listed above when visiting the website.
 
For more information, contact Columbia Animal Services at 803-776-7387.
New requirements to be enforced for food trucks operating in the City of Columbia beginning January 1, 2020.
Starting in 2020, food trucks conducting business within the capital city will be required to meet new guidelines set by the latest edition of the International Fire Code.

“This initiative by our department will help ensure that all food vendors operating a food truck within the city will be safe while serving their customers,” said Columbia-Richland Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, “Many people love to visit food trucks to grab a quick bite during the work week or at weekend events. Our goal is to make sure that these vehicles have all the necessary equipment on board to prevent or mitigate fires and other hazards.”
Mobile food trucks have become fixtures for many downtown, business districts and events. While they offer convenient dining options and unique eating experiences, these ‘virtual restaurants’ also create safety challenges. I recent years increased fire incidents and gas explosions have led to a closer review of safety regulations and inspections.

As a result, the International Code Council developed a section for the 2018 edition of the International Fire Code (IFC) to address mounting fire safety concerns. Requirements include a wide range of fire safety features --- from fire suppression to safeguarding of LP (liquefied gas) and CNG (compressed natural gas) systems.

The Columbia Fire Marshal’s Office will start enforcing these new requirements beginning on January 1, 2020 when the regulations will go into effect in South Carolina. All new and existing food preparation vehicles containing cooking equipment that produces smoke or grease-laden vapors are subject to the new rules. These vehicles include food trucks, concession trailers and similar vehicles used for cooking, preparing and serving food to the public.

To view the new guidelines, visit: City of Columbia .


Fireflies to Host Job Fair January 11
 The Columbia Fireflies today announced they will be hosting a job fair to hire for 2020 seasonal positions. All positions will be game day positions. The job fair will take place at Segra Park on Saturday, January 11 beginning at 10am and running until 12:30pm. 

Game day positions open for hiring include:
  • Usher
  • Parking
  • Facebook Photographer
  • Greeter
  • Video Production Staff
  • Ticketing Staff
  • Merchandise Staff
  • Janitorial Staff
  • Kid Zone Attendant 
  • Grounds Crew Staff
  • Batboys / Batgirls
  • Food & Beverage Staff
  • Bartender
  • Server
  • Concessions
  • Cook
  • Kitchen Staff

Interviews will take place on the spot for the above positions. Everyone interested in applying is encouraged to attend. Applicants should print and complete the New Employee Application to bring with them to the job fair. 
 
Returning employees should complete the Returning Employee Application and contact Katie Maroney at kmaroney@columbiafireflies.com prior to the job fair to reapply for the 2020 season. 
 
Columbia Fireflies is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on the basis of an individual’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age (as required by law), physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law. This policy applies to all terms, conditions and privileges of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, compensation, promotion, discipline and termination. 
 
2020 Season Memberships are on sale now and can be purchased at the Fireflies Box Office, online at FirefliesTickets.com or over the phone at 803-726-4487. Individual Tickets for the 2020 season will go on sale in February. 
January 2020 Council Meetings
Tuesday, January 7, 2020
Columbia City Council Work Session - 3 PM
Columbia City Council Meeting - 6 PM


Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Columbia City Council Work Session - 2 PM
Columbia City Council Meeting- 6 PM

For Agendas and Live Stream visit, columbiasc.gov .
Columbia Compass Public Meetings: Envision 2036
The City of Columbia will be hosting four public meetings to present the draft of Columbia Compass, the 10-year update to the City’s comprehensive plan. Brief presentations will be giving by the project team during each meeting at 5:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. These meetings will also provide an opportunity for members of the public to engage with the plan and provide feedback. Four identical public meetings will be held as follows:


The planning process has resulted in a vision and draft document which can help guide City Council as they Envision 2036 – when Columbia will celebrate its 250 th anniversary. Elements of the plan research and analysis include Columbia’s population, natural resources, land use, transportation, housing, community facilities, cultural resources and economic development. 

For continued updates about Columbia Compass: Envision 2036, visit www.columbiacompass.org and follow us @ColaCompass on Facebook or Twitter.

You can also contact the Planning and Development Services Department at 803-545-3222. Please visit our website to sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates about the 
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration
In Case You Missed It
40th Annual Leadership South Carolina

City Manager Teresa Wilson shares an overview with Leadership South Carolina that gives attendees an inside look at municipal government.
Leadership South Carolina Visits Columbia
On Thursday, December 5 th the current class of Leadership South Carolina visited the City of Columbia! Leadership South Carolina’s main goal and purpose is to educate and enlighten motivated individuals who have demonstrated their commitment and service to the Columbia community. It also gives the City of Columbia the incredible opportunity to showcase its’ City to leaders in industry, government, healthcare and other fields throughout the state of South Carolina. As stated on the Leadership South Carolina’s website:

“Leadership South Carolina believes the best way to positively impact the state is through education and awareness of the most pressing challenges facing South Carolina today, and instilling enthusiasm about tackling these challenges so that beneficial outcomes will be part of our state's future.
LSC believes that South Carolina must have inspiring leadership if it is to remain competitive and seeks to create motivated community leaders to resolve issues, build positive relationships, and foster healthy development of all parts of the state.”

This year was the 40 th year for Leadership South Carolina, making it an honor for the City of Columbia to have had the opportunity to participate. Various City officials and staff members represented Columbia during multiple presentations throughout the day. The group was welcomed by Mayor Pro Tem Tameika Isaac Devine and City Manager Teresa Wilson gave the first presentation titled “A Look at the City of Columbia – A Capital City.” She shared an overview and inside look at municipal government. Throughout the day, city staff members covered topics like public safety, business and development, municipal budgets and other related topics. The class was also taken on a tour to visit city facilities, like the Canal Water Plant, and other sites.

The event was a success and it accomplished the goal of showcasing our City for leaders from across the state of South Carolina. The City of Columbia was able to display its’ best practices in creating a strong, motivated and thriving community.
The Leadership South Carolina Class of 2019 assembles in the Council Chambers of City Hall for a presentation that showcases the City of Columbia’s leaders in industry, government, and healthcare.
Columbia Gives Back at Burton-Pack Elementary
    On December 11, 2019, Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins, along with staff of the Columbia-Richland Fire Department dropped off over 500 canned goods at Burton-Pack Elementary School. This was part of a challenge that for every 5 canned goods collected by the department over the last week, 1 book would be read by Burton-Pack Elementary school students.

The fire department was met with chants such as “I love reading books” and “I like reading books” from the kids, who were jumping up and down with “Thank You” signs and big smiles showing their appreciation for the donated items. “It was really special to see all the student lined up cheering for the firefighters. It makes us feel good to be able to see the importance of what we’re doing,” Fire Chief Jenkins said.
It is truly heart-warming to watch community efforts such as these resonate with young children, especially during the holiday season. The book challenge was made possible by the school superintendent, and partnered with the MLK Food Drive through the City of Columbia, which led up to this event. “I would like to thank the fire department for taking the time to recognize the need for the students to become readers and giving back to the community to people in need. There is nothing like holding a book in your hand.” said Burton-Pack Elementary School Principal, Dr. Sarah Smith.
Principal Smith also spoke about the impact that this challenge has had and will continue to have on the students. Smith said, “We are excited, here celebrating the 100 book reading challenge (..) Our student’s love for reading has grown, since they took a pledge to continue to read beyond this event. Moving forward, we want our students to take books everywhere they go.” Smith also spoke about how other students are giving back to the community as well by going to the Ronald McDonald House and working at area food banks.  
In addition to helping the community at large, the items that were collected will also help promote reading with students at the school. The kids will be reading one book for every five items that were donated.
 North Columbia Business Tour  
On Wednesday, December 11, 2019, City of Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin, City Councilman Sam Davis and Executive Director of the North Columbia Business Association, Sabrina Odom took a tour of several new businesses in the North Columbia area.




Local business, A Taste of the South, is now open in North Columbia.



Mayor Steve Benjamin enjoys exploring the new retail store, A Taste of the South, in North Columbia, while speaking to store owner, Elie Abikhaled.


Mayor Steve Benjamin, Councilman Sam Davis, and store owner Elie Abikhaled give remarks on the growing North Columbia area for businesses.



Mayor Steve Benjamin and Councilman Sam Davis check out Columbia Printing and Graphics, a local business new to the North Columbia area. 


Councilman Sam Davis enjoys the delicious cakes made at Cakes La Mor in North Columbia.
At-Large Holiday Drop-In



At-Large Councilmembers Tameika Isaac Devine and Howard Duvall 






Mayor Pro Tem Tameika Isaac Devine spending time with citizens at the At-Large Holiday Drop-In. 


 At-Large Councilman Howard Duvall with Assistant City Manager Henry Simons.



Councilman Howard Duvall and Columbia Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins 









At-Large Councilmembers Tameika Isaac Devine and Howard Duvall thanks everyone for coming to their annual At-Large Holiday Drop-In .
Columbia Council of Neighborhoods holiday event 
Guests enjoy fellowship and food during the 2019 Christmas Drop-In hosted by the Columbia Council of Neighborhoods and the Richland County Neighborhood Council. Columbia Council of Neighborhoods President, James McComb, and Columbia Council of Neighborhoods Vice President, Ralph McCarthy spoke with Public Relations staff about the holiday event.
Columbia Council of Neighborhoods President, James McComb hands out prizes to lucky attendees of the RCNC & CCN Annual Christmas Drop-In.
City Council Meeting
Mayor Steve Benjamin and City Council recognized Councilman Moe Baddourah for serving the citizens of the City of Columbia especially in District 3. “It has been an honor to serve the people of the City of Columbia,” said Councilman Moe Baddourah.
Mayor Steve Benjamin and City Council approved the Honorary Naming of the 2400 and 2500 blocks of Hampton Street between Oak Street and Millwood Avenue "Doris W. Hildebrand Way".
Mayor Steve Benjamin and City Council approved the Honorary Naming of the 2300 block of Pendleton Street between Oak Street and Heidt Street "Donella B. Wilson Way".
Mayor Steve Benjamin and City Council recognize Mr. Frank J. Slack as the December Employee of the Month.
Mr. Keith Tolen, Redbowtie Group, LLC Artist presents the City of Columbia, Mayor Steve Benjamin, and Doris Harris with Certificates of Appreciation!"
Juan Sims, Government Finance Officers Association of South Carolina (GFOASC) President presents a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association to the City of Columbia.
Report to the Community
The City of Columbia released the Report to the Community for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 in August 2019. From public safety to development corporations to information technology, the City’s Public Relations, Media and Marketing Department has assembled a snapshot of the advances and improvements in all aspects of our city operations between July 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019.  


To view a copy of this year's report, click here .