Mayor Steve Benjamin and Columbia City Council Unanimously Approves Emergency Ordinance Extending Mask Face Coverings and Temporary Suspension of Meetings
Mayor Steve Benjamin and Columbia City Council unanimously approved an emergency ordinance that extends the temporary suspension of the normal operating procedures of City Council and City Boards and Commissions meetings.
This allows for the Mayor, Council Members, Board Members and Commission Members to remotely participate in voting and operational procedures by telephone or other means of electronic communication and extends the requirement that face coverings or masks be work in public in the City of Columbia.
The previous ordinance would have expired on October 4, 2020. The extension approved by City Council on September 15th extends the ordinance to expire on the 61st day after enactment of this ordinance.
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Columbia Water and FEMA Come to Fundamental Agreement on Scope of Canal Work
The City of Columbia/Columbia Water announced today that they have come to a fundamental agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance program on the scope of damage to the Columbia Canal from the historic flooding that took place in the Midlands in 2015. This fundamental agreement is the culmination of years of negotiations with the federal agency and signals the beginning of the repair process for the canal and hydroelectric plant. FEMA PA is coordinated by the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD).
“It has been a been a lengthy and highly technical process to demonstrate to FEMA and other agencies the extent of damage that the flood caused to the canal and power plant,” said Clint Shealy, Assistant City Manager for Columbia Water. “However, the second half of the equation was to come to an agreement with FEMA on what the damages were in order to determine how much funding could be provided. Today, we are pleased to announce that we have reached this milestone and can move forward with the project.”
Both the City and FEMA have identified approximately $42 million in damages as a result of the 2015 historic floods. The scope of work includes repairing the breach to the canal, fixing damaged sections of the canal embankment and repairing the hydroelectric plant at the south end of the canal to return green power to the City of Columbia.
Additional necessary work that does not fall under FEMA’s scope is replacing the headgates at the north end of the canal. However, a separate federal funding source is being sought for those repairs.
“We are excited to finally be moving forward, but we do want the public to understand that this will be a multi-faceted project that will take years to complete,” said Shealy. “And there may be some inconveniences to visitors of Riverfront Park as we move along, including closures from time to time to move equipment in and out.”
The first step in the repair process is an Environmental Assessment of the canal that will include an archeological survey. The survey began this week and will include geological borings along the canal embankment. It is expected to last through December 2020. The length of the remainder of the project has yet to be determined.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we begin this phase of making Columbia whole again from the devastating flood of 2015,” said Shealy. “We will provide updates of the project though traditional and social media as we move forward.”
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Virtual Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence
The 2020 Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence will be held virtually Saturday, October 10. Participants are asked to join in and show their support by going for a walk in their own neighborhoods, local parks, and other outdoor areas throughout Columbia.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and for the 14th year, Mayor Steve Benjamin and Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine are hosting the annual walk, which will be taking place virtually this year due to the global pandemic. Participants are encouraged to walk alone or with their family members (households). If someone chooses to walk with a group or with friends, they are urged to wear a mask and practice social distancing. By joining in and walking in parks and neighborhoods within the community, participants will help in raising awareness about the abuse and violence that is taking place in our community. The first 500 people who register will have the opportunity to pick up a registration packet and gift as well as a yard sign to be displayed at their homes, showing their support in taking steps against domestic violence.
For more information, contact the Public Relations, Media and Marketing Department at pio@columbiasc.gov.
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City of Columbia to Host #LoveColumbiaSC Photo Challenge
The #LoveColumbiaSC Challenge is a City initiative that encourages citizens of Columbia to submit photos via social media of the places they love in the city. Therefore, citizens will be tasked with submitting photos of their favorite places within City limits. The City of Columbia Photo Challenge, #LoveColumbiaSC, began in 2014 as a way to increase community engagement, expand public knowledge of the City’s social media sites and increase the use of technology to interact with citizens. To enter the contest, you must tag the City of Columbia in your photo on the social media platform and use hashtag #LoveColumbiaSC to identify a contest entry.
WHO: City of Columbia
WHAT:
Image Submission:
Submit images that include landscapes, structures, buildings or historical monuments. The photos MUST include images that are within the city limits. The winning photo will be based on the total number of “likes, favorites, retweets, etc. that are received by September 30, 2020. To enter the contest, social media users MUST tag the City of Columbia on the social media platform and use #LoveColumbiaSC to identify a contest entry.
There will be three photos chosen and they will include one photo from Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The winner will be decided by the number of votes from followers on each of the social media platforms.
WHEN: The #LoveColumbiaSC Photo Challenge will held on the City’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter media platforms from now until September 30, 2020.
WHERE: City limits of Columbia, South Carolina
FOLLOW US TO PARTICIPATE:
Instagram: @wearecolumbia
Twitter: @cityofcolumbia
Facebook: @cityofcolumbia
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City of Columbia Parks and Recreation to Close South End of Riverfront Park Due to Construction
City of Columbia Parks and Recreation will close the south end of Riverfront Park (312 Laurel St.) on Thursday, September 17 and Friday, September 18.
Contractors will be boring into the canal levee to assess soils using drill rigs. Guests can still access the restrooms and fitness area, but will not be able to cross the pedestrian bridge. Guests can also still visit the north end of the park at 4122 River Drive, but travel south of Interstate 126 will be prohibited.
Work will conclude on the evening of Friday the 18th, and normal park operations (6 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily) will resume
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The City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunities Annual Mentor Protégé Program Meeting
WHAT: Columbia Office of Business Opportunities Annual Mentor Protégé Program Meeting.
WHO: The City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunities to hold conference call for all Mentor Protégé Program participants. New firms interested in participating in the program are encouraged to join as well.
WHEN: Dates Changed to Tuesday, September 29, 2020 and Thursday, October 1,2020
WHERE: For more information and to register, please go to
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U.S. Surgeon General, Gov. McMaster, DHEC, City of Columbia, and UofSC Partner to Launch Expansive, Multi-Day COVID-19 Testing Initiative in Columbia, S.C.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), City of Columbia, and the University of South Carolina (UofSC) today announced its surge testing efforts to expand access to free COVID-19 testing in Columbia, S.C.
"'I’m glad to be in Columbia to represent HHS as these testing sites are stood up, increasing access to critical testing resources," said Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams. “If you or your loved ones are worried you may have come into contact with COVID-19 or are experiencing any symptoms, please make an appointment to get tested. It’s easy and free. Please also remember to continue to do your part to stop the spread of COVID-19 by following the three Ws: wear a mask, wash your hands, and watch your distance.”
“We’re grateful for our state and federal partners who have come together to make this event a reality,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “We welcome anyone who wants to get tested to take advantage of this opportunity and join us this Saturday.”
Beginning this Saturday, Sept. 19, free testing for COVID-19 will be available at Founders Park and Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Columbia, S.C. The testing will be offered through a self-administered nasal swab, which is simple and pain-free.
“Testing remains a critical component in the fight against COVID-19, and we are committed to working with our federal, state and local partners to continue to bring access to free testing in our communities,” said DHEC Acting Director Marshall Taylor. “DHEC is asking South Carolinians to do your part to get tested. By getting tested you are helping us all to stay vigilant and take the needed actions to thwart the spread of this virus.”
“The combined efforts of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Governor McMaster’s office, SC DHEC and the University of South Carolina to provide surge testing to increase capacity underscores the importance of testing to measure how pervasive the spread of COVID-19 is across the Midlands, and thus where we need to focus our resources,” said Mayor Steve Benjamin. “Testing gives us the knowledge and data needed to strategically halt the spread, and provides more tools to ultimately reverse infection rates and fully overcome this pandemic.”
“The University of South Carolina is proud to partner with HHS, Governor McMaster, and DHEC on this important initiative,” said UofSC President Bob Caslen. “COVID-19 testing is an essential element in fighting the deadly coronavirus, and I am glad the university is taking an active role in expanding community and student testing. I encourage all residents of Columbia and the surrounding areas to join our students, faculty and staff in taking advantage of this testing opportunity so that we can identify and treat those infected by this virus.”
The community testing events will be offered for up to 14 days and all testing associated costs to run the events will be covered by HHS. The events will be held at:
Founders Park (UofSC Baseball Stadium) at 431 Williams St., Columbia (drive-through and walk-up)
· Saturday, Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Monday, Sept. 21-Friday, Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
· Sunday, Sept. 27-Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Park at 2300 Greene St., Columbia (walk-up testing only)
· Saturday, Sept. 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Monday, Sept. 21-Saturday, Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you’re interested in registering to get tested for COVID-19 go to www.doineedacovid19test.com. Once you’ve registered, make sure to print and bring the test voucher with you on the day of testing. There will be signage and onsite personnel to direct you to and through the testing sites. Results will be made available via e-mail notification in as early as three days.
Testing at these partner locations is available at no cost to individuals five years and older. To receive your free COVID-19 test, you do not need to be a resident of the county where the testing event is taking place. Individuals under 16 years old must have a parent or legal guardian present to consent to testing. Every individual getting tested will also receive five cloth face coverings so they can use to protect others from COVID-19.
For more information about testing and to find a testing location nearest you visit, www.doineedacovid19test.com.
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Benedict College and CVS Health Launch COVID-19 Testing in Columbia
On August 31, 2020, Benedict College and CVS Health announced the launch of rapid COVID-19 testing on the College’s Columbia campus. CVS Pharmacists and pharmacy employees have been staffing the testing operation, making it available at no cost to patients.
“I applaud Benedict College and CVS Health for partnering to increase much-needed COVID-19 testing in our community,” said Congressman Clyburn. “We must do everything we can to ensure South Carolinians have the resources they need to arrest the spread of this virus. I encourage all eligible residents to utilize this vital service by registering in advance and visiting the testing site as soon as possible.”
Testing at Benedict College, located at 1903 Two Notch Road in Columbia, is open to the public by appointment. Patients will need to pre-register in advance by calling 803-705-4351 to schedule a time slot to come to the center for testing.
“Working with partners like Benedict College is an important part of our comprehensive strategy to increase access to COVID-19 testing,” said Dr. Garth Graham, Vice President, Community Health and Chief Community Health Officer, CVS Health. “This joint effort allows us to tap into the network of a trusted organization with strong community ties to further expand testing in areas of greatest need.”
A personal vehicle is not required for testing and results will be provided on-the-spot. To be eligible for testing, patients will need to meet criteria established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in addition to age guidelines.
“It is gratifying when corporations like CVS Health recognize the commitment and service of Benedict College to the communities that support our students and the college,” said Benedict College President & CEO Dr. Roslyn C. Artis. “This is our second partnership to offer free COVID-19 testing to the citizens of Columbia and the surrounding area and we encourage everyone that is able to take advantage of this testing for health and safety of their families and communities”
Benedict College is a private co-educational liberal arts institution with over 2,100 students enrolled in its 34 baccalaureate degree programs. This Midlands HBCU has been a community leader for over 148-years and is a significant contributor to South Carolina and the region, contributing $130 million and 1,218 jobs in total local and annual economic impact.
“I’m glad to see CVS Health working with Benedict College to bring free, rapid COVID-19 testing to a location that is easily accessible in the community,” said State Senator Darrell Jackson. “Testing is important to stop the spread of this virus and I applaud these two organizations for their commitment to supporting public health here in the Midlands.”
In addition to offering testing together with several community partners across the country, CVS Health is offering drive-thru testing at more than 1,800 CVS Pharmacy locations nationwide. Nearly sixty percent of these CVS Pharmacy test sites serve communities with significant need for support, as measured by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Social Vulnerability Index.
“I, like most South Carolinians, want to ensure the safety of our citizens and for things to go back to normal,” said State Representative Todd Rutherford. “I cannot stress enough the importance of social distancing, wearing masks, and getting tested. I am pleased that CVS Health and Benedict College have opened a free, rapid testing site to increase access to testing here in Columbia.”
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City Video Hub
Find in-depth perspectives from news, updates, and recent events in the City of Columbia.
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City Council
Virtual Meeting
Tuesday, September 15, 2020 2:00 PM
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City of Columbia Municipal Court Reopening | A Message from the Chief Administrative Judge
The Columbia Municipal Court will reopen on September 14, 2020 to limited operations. Only Criminal, Traffic, Quality of Life, and Domestic Violence courts will operate after our reopen date. Jury Trials, Roster Meetings and Preliminary Hearings will continue to be postponed until further notice. If you have missed your court date due to the court closure, your case will be rescheduled and notification will be sent to you by mail of your new court date. Fine payments can be made online from this web page under the Court Payments tab, in person at our drive thru window or at our payment counter after the reopen date listed above. No person will be allowed in the courthouse without a face covering.
In addition, please open and review the Order by the South Carolina Supreme Court, which is liked below, regarding Required Use of Protective Mask in Municipal Courthouses.
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Follow these easy steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
1. Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
2. If soap and warm water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
3. Clean surfaces frequently with disinfecting supplies (telephones, keyboards, copiers, printers, desks, etc.)
4. Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other individuals
5. Do no gather in crowds and groups.
6. Maximize social distancing among co-workers and the public.
Remember, Safety Starts with an “S” but it begins with “YOU”.
Let’s continue to unite and fight the spread of the Coronavirus.
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For more information please visit
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Stephen K. Benjamin
Mayor
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Sam Davis
Councilman District I
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Tameika Isaac Devine
Councilwoman At-Large
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Howard E. Duvall, Jr.
Councilman At-Large
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Edward H. McDowell, Jr.
Councilman District II
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Daniel J. Rickenmann
Councilman District IV
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Will Brennan
Councilman District III
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Teresa Wilson
City Manager
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