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  Council recognizes efforts to curb gun violence
During their meeting Tuesday, Richland County Councilmembers presented a resolution recognizing Aug. 24-28 as Be SMART Week in the County. The Be SMART campaign unites communities to raise awareness of the importance of secure gun storage to help prevent gun deaths and injuries.
The resolution followed a proclamation presented by Councilwoman Tyra K. Little (District 3) to Midlands Be SMART, an organization that encourages responsible gun ownership, on Monday at the National SMART Week kickoff at the Busby Street Community Center in Columbia.
Together, these recognitions reflect the County’s commitment to creating a safer community through education, outreach and informative events focused on gun safety.
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CADP celebrates first year, honors Councilman
Earlier this week, the Columbia Area Development Partnership (CADP) commemorated its first year as the lead economic development authority for Richland County with its annual breakfast, which featured business leaders, community partners and local elected officials.
CADP revealed its fiscal year 2026 annual report, spotlighting strides in capital investment and job creation, and presented the inaugural Three Rivers Paul Livingston Economic Development Champion Award. County Councilman Livingston (District 4), the award’s namesake, was honored for his more than 25 years of dedicated public service.
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It's almost time to THRIVE!
Are you a local entrepreneur looking for the tips and tools to start or grow your small business? The Richland County Office of Small Business Opportunity’s eighth annual Small Business Trade Show & Forum, THRIVE 10X, will gather entrepreneurs, government agencies, creatives and others for a day of learning, connection and inspiration.
Held In partnership with the City of Columbia Office of Business Opportunity, this event will show you how to expand your business, gain access to procurement opportunities and more. It takes place 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 29 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. To attend, register online.
Cooper (District 7) gives insights on her leadership journey
County Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper (District 7) was featured Wednesday in a women's leadership panel discussion for the S.C. Recreation and Parks Association.
Councilwoman Cooper shared insights from her professional career and time as a public servant on navigating obstacles, building confidence, connecting with mentors and finding the opportunities that have paved her pathway to leadership.
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Eliminate spots in your backyard for mosquitoes to hide
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Richland County's Vector Control team is actively monitoring mosquito populations and taking steps to protect residents from West Nile virus and other vectors. In this video produced by the County's Public Information Office, Vector Control staff discuss where the insects tend to breed and what you can do to eliminate sources of standing water where you live. |
Council's Alleyne picked to lead transit authority's board
County Councilwoman Tish Dozier Alleyne (District 8) was recently named chair of The COMET’s Board of Directors.
Alleyne succeeds Councilwoman Allison Terracio (District 5), who previously held the position for two terms. This advancement marks the next level in Alleyne’s involvement with The COMET’s board, as she formerly served as treasurer and chair of the finance committee. Terracio will remain on The COMET's board as its newly elected treasurer.
The COMET is a regional transportation authority for Richland County, the City of Columbia and Lexington County.
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Employees earn kudos for valuable service to residents
Richland County personnel were recently recognized for setting a high bar for remarkable service:
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Carol Williams, of Richland County Planning and Development's Zoning Division, was commended by two residents for providing pleasant and helpful assistance.
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Amber Solomon and Jessica Little Jordan, both of the County Ombudsman's Office, were complimented for helping a resident with their request for a stop sign in their community. The resident said both staff members showed professionalism and provided a quick response time.
To recognize an employee for a job well done, call the Ombudsman: 803-929-6000.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
County Council Special Called Meeting
6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, 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
Voter Ambassador Program Training
3 p.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, Richland County Voter Registration & Elections, 300 Columbia Mall Blvd., Suite 210, Columbia
This program aims to 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
District 7 Town Hall: Proposed Rezoning Requests
6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, Parklane Adult Activity Center, 7494 Parklane Road, Columbia
Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper (District 7) and County staff invite residents to participate in community developments at this public meeting.
More information
Hiring Event: Election Day Workers
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, Richland County Voter Registration & Elections, 300 Columbia Mall Blvd., Suite 210, Columbia
Richland County is looking for residents to serve as poll workers on Nov. 3. In-person and virtual onboarding sessions are available. Learn how you can contribute.
More information
THRIVE 10X: Small Business Trade Show & Forum
8 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St., Columbia
At this high-energy event, entrepreneurs, small businesses, workforce partners, corporate partners, government agencies and more will come together to connect, inspire, collaborate and propel our economy forward.
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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