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Richland County residents enjoyed a Saturday morning of music and movement, hitting the pavement for Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper’s annual District 7 Community Walk at Crane Creek Park in Columbia.
With Zumba and a dance fitness session to get attendees' blood flowing and valuable health information also available, the event provided a time to experience the benefits of cardiovascular exercise and set new goals for better heart health this year. Heart disease was the state's No. 1 cause of death in 2023, according to the S.C. Department of Public Health.
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AMAROK expanding Richland County presence
On Tuesday, AMAROK Security, a perimeter security company founded in Columbia, announced the construction of its new headquarters within the BullStreet District. The company’s $69 million investment will create 296 new jobs. During a ceremony, County Council Chair Jesica Mackey (District 9) praised the company's increased exposure thanks to being part of the BullStreet District.
AMAROK is a leader in the commercial security industry, providing integrated electric fencing solutions along with video surveillance and monitoring, access control, lighting, and more.
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 Expansion shows partnership with nonprofit bearing fruit
On Thursday, housing nonprofit Homeless No More welcomed expanded economic resources for clients, introducing a new Connection Point computer lab at the organization’s transitional facility for families in need. Connection Points, a program of the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce (SCDEW) and SC Works, provides access to computers and resources for unemployment and career services.
Thursday's unveiling on Waites Road in Columbia was attended by local, state and Homeless No More leaders, including Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and SCDEW Executive Director William Floyd. County Councilwoman Tyra K. Little (District 3) praised the development for increasing access to resources for professional growth, as well as boosting the potential for enhanced workforce development in the area.
Governor's Awards honor SC's commitment to the arts
The S.C. Arts Commission presented the annual Governor’s Awards for the Arts on Thursday at the Columbia Museum of Art. County Councilmembers Tyra Little, Paul Livingston and Chakisse Newton were on hand to help celebrate the entities that further the arts in South Carolina.
The Columbia Museum of Art, a County Hospitality Tax grant recipient, was among the organizations honored, receiving an Accessibility award. The museum’s executive director Della Watkins was also honored, receiving the Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest honor, for her almost decade-long tenure with the museum.
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Apply for volunteer opportunities with County groups
Richland County offers the public opportunities to stay active in local government by serving on one of several volunteer boards, commissions and committees. Thirteen such County entities currently have vacancies.
To apply for an open position online, go to the County's website, County Council will accept applications for vacancies until 5 p.m. Friday, April 3. For more information, email the Richland County Clerk to Council’s Office or call 803-576-2060.
Beauty studio Lash Cafe sets its sights on Columbia
On Thursday, The Lash Cafe officially launched a new way for residents to practice self-care in a ribbon cutting for the cafe’s new location at 3035 N. Main St., Columbia. A versatile beauty studio, The Lash Cafe specializes in aesthetic services to enhance the lashes, eyebrows and skin.
Leaders and staff with Richland County and the City of Columbia were on hand for the event, including County Councilwoman Tyra Little (District 3), Councilman Paul Livingston (District 4) and Columbia Mayor Pro Tem Tina Herbert.
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Communications training helps County staff find their voice
Richland County employees got lessons on enhancing their public speaking and presentation skills Wednesday, during training led by the Camden-based Buckley School of Public Speaking. The training was held at the County Administration Building in Columbia.
The Buckley School provides online learning, in-person public speaking courses and personalized support for professionals in presentation development, media training, lead writing and business etiquette.
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County EMS, Sheriff's officers earn gratitude for service
Richland County staff were recently recognized for providing excellent customer service.
A resident commended both Richland County EMS and the Richland County Sheriff's Department for their prompt and compassionate assistance during a recent interaction. The resident expressed her gratitude for the responders' professionalism and care.
To recognize an employee for a job well done, call the Ombudsman: 803-929-6000.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
Richland County Council Meeting
6 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 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
Early Voting for Town of Eastover General Election
8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, March 30-Friday, April 10, Voter Registration and Elections Office, 300 Columbia Mall Blvd., Suite 210, Columbia
The general election for the Town of Eastover will be April 14. For any filling-related questions, contact the Town of Eastover: 803-353-2281.
More information
Voter Ambassador Program Training
5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, Voter Registration and Elections Office, 300 Columbia Mall Blvd., Suite 210, Columbia
This program's purpose is to invite and train community members to serve as Voter Ambassadors, who can then host voter registration drives, educate others about the voter registration and election processes, and empower their communities.
More information
Public Hearing: Substantial Amendment
6 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, County Administration Building (2nd-floor Council Chambers), 2020 Hampton St., Columbia
The County proposes a Substantial Amendment to the 2020 Annual Action Plan to reallocate Community Development Block Grant COVID-19 funds from canceled projects. This public hearing will present the plan and provide opportunity for public comment.
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 Council-related matters, you may also email the Clerk of Council or call 803-576-2060.
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