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On Wednesday, Richland County held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the completion of work on Sunset Drive, the latest infrastructure project funded by the Transportation Penny. Local leaders spoke on the significance of the project for residents of North Columbia, including Council Chairwoman Jesica Mackey, Councilman Paul Livingston, Transportation Penny Director Mike Maloney and City of Columbia Councilwoman Tina N. Herbert.
Featuring $5.2 million in upgrades, the project's most visible benefit is a new, 5-foot-wide sidewalk extending from River Drive to Elmhurst Road. The project, which also includes improved stormwater infrastructure and relocated water lines, aims to boost walkability, community connectivity, pedestrian safety, and quality of life.
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Staff with the City of Columbia unveiled the newly redesigned Finlay Park on Thursday. Set to reopen to the public Saturday, the downtown greenspace features $25 million in new features and amenities, including an event venue, five miles of walking paths, a sculpture garden and a disc golf course.
Main attractions of the 17-acre park include the Cola Summit Playscape, a playground containing five slides, rope ladders, and climbing limbs, as well as a fully accessible splash pad. The park's grand reopening is set for 10 a.m. Saturday at 930 Laurel St., Columbia.
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 Homeless shelter celebrates addition to housing program
On Thursday, local nonprofit Homeless No More announced the completion of Waites Way, a seven-unit affordable housing complex on Waites Road in Columbia, with a wreath-hanging ceremony at the new facility. County Councilwoman Tyra K. Little (District 3) spoke on the significance of housing for families in need. City of Columbia Councilman Tyler Bailey, S.C. Housing Deputy Director of Programs Marni Holloway, and Homeless No More President Lila Anna Sauls also provided remarks.
Waites Way is Homeless No More’s latest addition to its Live Oak affordable housing program, which focuses on creating stability through housing for vulnerable families in the Midlands.
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Mini-Grants to boost conservation projects at local schools
Six Richland County schools will experience hands-on environmental learning this school year, thanks to financial support from the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (RSWCD).
Each year, RSWCD administers Conservation Education Mini-Grants to support youth education initiatives at County schools. Grant winners for the 2025-2026 school year are:
- Clear Dot Charter School
- Dutch Fork Elementary School
- John P. Thomas Elementary School
- North Springs Elementary School STEMS Magnet Program
- St. Martin De Porres Catholic School
- KOC Afterschool Program
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Video: New workforce facility holds open house
Last week, County leaders joined Gov. Henry McMaster and others to tour the newly renovated Cornerstone: Economic Development and Workforce Training Center. The facility will serve as a hub for workforce development by preparing individuals for jobs in manufacturing. To see a video from the tour, use the link at right. |
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Drop off toys, other children's items through Dec. 4
Richland County EMS is accepting donations of toys, clothing and other items as part of "Stuff an Ambulance," a holiday tradition to benefit Richland County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).
To support the effort, drop off new, unwrapped donations at EMS headquarters, 1410 Laurens St., Columbia, during business hours through Dec. 4. For more information, contact Capt. Adams or Lt. Griffin of EMS: 803-576-3409.
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County staff receive thanks for helpful service
Two staff members with the Richland County Assessor's Office were recently recognized for showing excellent customer service skills.
- A resident commended Mia Martin for providing patient, knowledgeable and professional assistance.
- A second resident lauded Elise Kelly for providing excellent service while explaining tax information.
To recognize an employee for a job well done, call the County Ombudsman: 803-929-6000.
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Richland County Council Meeting
6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, County Administration Building (2nd-floor Council Chambers), 2020 Hampton St., Columbia
Meetings are streamed live on the County's YouTube and Facebook pages.
More information
America Recycles Day: Free Drop-off Event
8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Nov. 15, Columbia Place Mall, 7201 Two Notch Road, Columbia
Richland County residents can drop off recyclable materials, including household hazardous waste and paper for shredding.
More information
Grant Workshop: Community Impact, Accommodations Tax & Hospitality Tax
10 a.m.-11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, County Administration Building (second-floor Council Chambers), 2020 Hampton St., Columbia
Gain essential skills and strategies needed for the upcoming FY27 grant process at this workshop, hosted by the County's Office of Budget and Strategic Management.
More information
Training Session: Neighborhood Enrichment Grants
10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, County Administration Building (fourth-floor Conference Room), 2020 Hampton St., Columbia
Richland County's Neighborhood Improvement Program will host this discussion on guidelines and the application process for the Neighborhood Grant Enrichment Program.
More information
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RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL
Richland County Council conducts regular session meetings the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers. All meetings are open to the public.
Councilmembers and contact info
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District 1
Councilman Jason Branham / 803-542-0002
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District 2
Councilman Derrek Pugh (Vice Chair) / 803-977-4339
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District 3
Councilwoman Tyra Little / 803-422-0203
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District 4
Councilman Paul Livingston / 803-765-1192
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District 5
Councilperson Allison Terracio / 803-622-6029
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District 6
Councilman Don Weaver / 803-995-3703
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District 7
Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper / 803-977-4337
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District 8
Councilwoman Tish Dozier Alleyne / 803-457-2597
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District 9
Councilwoman Jesica Mackey (Chairwoman) / 803-977-4338
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District 10
Councilwoman Cheryl English / 803-949-0770
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District 11
Councilwoman Chakisse Newton / 803-973-9652
For matters pertaining to Council, you may also email the Clerk of Council or call 803-576-2060.
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