County's small-business office celebrates new ventures, makes vital connections

The Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity (OSBO) participated in a trio of events this week. On Tuesday, OSBO partnered with the Mota Crosslinking Business Academy for an Indigenous Business Circle at the County Administration Building in Columbia. The meeting allowed established, indigenous small businesses and tribal community leaders to connect, share successes and challenges, and learn about resources for potential growth.

On Wednesday, OSBO hosted its second annual celebration for small businesses as part of Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) Appreciation Day at the Decker Center in Columbia. This event recognizes SLBEs' accomplishments as members of the County's small-business community. The week concluded with Friday's grand opening of Bessie’s Burgers and More, located in the open-air food hall at the newly opened Gather COLA in Columbia's BullStreet District. Bessie’s is a County-certified SLBE.

Council recognizes local health care advocates

In Richland County, 14 percent of adults ages 18-64 are uninsured and 23 percent of residents have medical debt, according to the organization.

NEWS AROUND THE COUNTY

Fall promotional ceremony honors 21 CRFD firefighters

The service recognized 12 new senior firefighters, seven fire captains, a new training officer and a new battalion chief. Richland County congratulates these dedicated first responders on their commitment to growth and professional development.

Former Gov. Beasley honored for humanitarian efforts

On Monday night, The Columbia World Affairs Council recognized former Gov. David Beasley with the 2025 Global Vision Award for his work with the U.N. World Food Programme, the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to eradication of hunger. Several Richland County Councilmembers attended the event at the Columbia Museum of Art. The Global Vision Award honors leaders whose contributions have magnified South Carolina’s presence on the world stage.

Firefighters begin collecting food for annual charity drive

The Columbia-Richland Fire Department is preparing for another busy season of helping area families acquire food for the holidays. The department has begun taking donations for its sixth annual "Firefighters Feeding Families Holiday Food Drive." Residents can drop off canned goods and non-perishable food items during business hours through Friday, Dec. 19 at fire stations in the City of Columbia and Richland County.

Conservation drop-in sprouts holiday cheer

The Richland County Conservation Commission hosted its annual Holiday Drop-in with the Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (RSWCD) on Tuesday at the County Administration Building in Columbia. The event gave County staff, Councilmembers and community partners the chance to mingle and learn about the work of the Conservation Commission and RSWCD.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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

• District 1
  Councilman Jason Branham / 803-542-0002
• District 2
  Councilman Derrek Pugh (Vice Chair) / 803-977-4339
• District 3
  Councilwoman Tyra Little / 803-422-0203
• District 4
  Councilman Paul Livingston / 803-765-1192
• District 5
  Councilperson Allison Terracio / 803-622-6029
• District 6
  Councilman Don Weaver / 803-995-3703
• District 7
  Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper / 803-977-4337
• District 8
  Councilwoman Tish Dozier Alleyne / 803-457-2597
• District 9
  Councilwoman Jesica Mackey (Chairwoman) / 803-977-4338
• District 10
  Councilwoman Cheryl English / 803-949-0770
• District 11
  Councilwoman Chakisse Newton / 803-973-9652

For Council-related matters, you may also email the Clerk of Council or call 803-576-2060.