City Council
Regular MeetingColumbia, SC · April 14, 2026
Minutes
Columbia City Council Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Call to Order
The Columbia City Council conducted a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at City
Hall (Council Chambers), 1737 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29201. The Honorable
Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor called the meeting to order at 4:07 p.m. The following
members were present: The Honorable Edward H. McDowell, Jr., The Honorable Will
Brennan, The Honorable Tina N. Herbert, Mayor Pro-Tempore, The Honorable Peter M.
Brown, The Honorable Tyler D. Bailey, and The Honorable Sam P. Johnson. Also present
were Ms. Teresa Wilson, City Manager and Ms. Erika D. Moore Hammond, City Clerk. This
meeting was advertised in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act.
Invocation
The Honorable Edward H. McDowell, Jr. offered the invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance
Adoption of the Agenda
Ms. Teresa B. Wilson, City Manager announced that the beautiful Mrs. Jennie Ruth Dingle
Mixon will not be in attendance today. She noted that another event is being planned for
Mrs. Dingle this weekend.
Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to adopt the agenda as presented.
Public Input
Individuals are allotted up to three minutes to address City Council about items on the
agenda. Items requiring a public hearing cannot be addressed at this time.
No one appeared at this time.
Councilor Johnson thanked City leadership and staff, community partners, and volunteers
for their assistance in hosting a successful Easter Egg Roll on Friday, April 3, 2026 at Finlay
Park. The event welcomed thousands of children who were able to participate in the
festivities.
Approval of Minutes
1. Council is asked to approve the March 17, 2026 Work Session and Regular Meeting
Minutes.
Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
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unanimously to approve the March 17, 2026 Work Session and Regular Meeting Minutes.
Presentations
2. Mrs. Jennie Ruth Dingle Mixon 100th Birthday Proclamation — The Honorable Daniel
J. Rickenmann, Mayor
Mayor Rickenmann and the members of Columbia City Council proclaimed April 13, 2026 as
Mrs. Jennie Ruth Dingle Mixon 100th Birthday.
3. National Telecommunicator Week Proclamation - The Honorable Daniel J.
Rickenmann, Mayor
Mayor Rickenmann and the members of Columbia City Council proclaimed April 12–18, 2026
as National Telecommunicator Week.
Ms. Wendy Royal, Columbia-Richland 911 Communications Director thanked Mayor
Rickenmann and executive leadership for recognizing this week as National Public Safety
Telecommunicator Week. She acknowledged the entire 911 Team for their daily
contributions.
Ms. Teresa B. Wilson, City Manager acknowledged Director Royal as an example of how you
can grow in a profession. She started as a dispatcher and now serves as the director.
4. Second Chance Month Proclamation - The Honorable Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor
The Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement presented a video featuring Mr. Rafael
Brown, Program Assistant and a community member who highlighted the benefits of being
afforded a second chance.
Mayor Rickenmann and the members of Columbia City Council proclaimed April 2026 as
Second Chance Month in the City of Columbia.
Ms. Krystle Holmes-Gay, LMSW, Program Manager / Office of Neighborhood Safety and
Engagement thanked City Council and executive leadership for the recognition. She
expressed appreciation for the opportunity to scan applicants before conducting background
checks.
Mr. Rafael Brown, Program Assistant / Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement
expressed appreciation for being hired by the City of Columbia's Office of Neighborhood
Safety and Engagement and the opportunity to work with young people through the
creation of programs. He recognized other men who supported this effort.
Councilor Herbert said this message is very powerful and people need to hear it. She
suggested that the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement connect with the Public
Relations Department to record a brief message in hopes of reaching others.
Councilor McDowell said all of us deserve a second chance. He offered thanks and
encouragement to continue the work that is being done.
Consent Agenda Items 5 through 15
Upon a single motion made by Mr. McDowell and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
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unanimously to approve Consent Agenda Items 5 through 15.
5. Council is asked to approve the Purchase of Eleven (11) Motorola Mobile Radios and
Software for the Columbia Police Department, as requested by the Fleet Services
Division on February 12, 2026. Award to Motorola Solutions, Inc., using the South
Carolina State Contract in the amount of $97,955.11. This vendor is located in
Columbia, SC.
Funding Source: Capital Replacement - Auto, Trucks, Heavy Equipment-Capital
(6308972-658500). The original budget amount is $97,955.11.
6. Council is asked to approve funding for the Annual Finance Enterprise Software
Subscription and Maintenance Renewal, as requested by the Program Management
Office on March 11, 2026. Award to CentralSquare Technologies, LLC, in the amount
of $281,302.89. The term of the contract is from May 31, 2026 to May 30, 2027.
This vendor is located in Lake Mary, FL.
Funding Source: Program Management Office - Cloud Based Software Solutions
(6218950-632170). The original budget amount is $281,302.89.
7. Council is asked to approve the Purchase of a 2027 Freightliner Loadmaster Truck
for the Solid Waste Division, as requested by the Fleet Services Division on February
27, 2026. Award to Amick Equipment Company, Inc., using the North Carolina
Sheriffs' Association Contract in the amount of $286,519.19. This vendor is located
in Lexington, SC.
Funding Source: Capital Replacement - Auto, Trucks, Heavy Equipment-Capital
(6308972-658500). The original budget amount is $286,519.19.
8. Council is asked to approve Contract Amendment #7 for Project SS7382;
Wastewater Compliance and Lift Station Maintenance, as requested by Columbia
Water on March 4, 2026. Award to Goodwyn, Mills, Cawood, LLC, in an amount not
to exceed $74,500.00. The current term of the contract ends on December 31,
2027. This firm is located in Columbia, SC.
Funding Source: Water and Sewer Capital Projects — Compliance and Lift Station
Maintenance — Capital Project Costs (5529999-SS738202-658650). The current
budget amount is $453,915.00. The budget amount for this amendment is
$74,500.00. The revised budget amount is $528,415.00.
The Columbia Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (CDBE) project goal of 10% was
exceeded at 17.75% of the revised contract amount with the approval of this
contract amendment.
Goodwyn Mills & Cawood, LLC is the prime and will provide architectural services at
70.27% ($52,351.15) of the amendment amount.
The following subcontractor(s) will provide additional services and/or materials:
Chao & Associates, Inc., a Minority Business Enterprise and a Columbia
Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (CDBE) of Columbia, SC, will provide floodplain
mitigation engineering and structural engineering services at 16.89% ($12,583.05)
of the amendment amount.
Rebecca M. Looney & Associates, a Minority Business Enterprise (W) and a Columbia
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Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (CDBE) of Ballentine, SC, will provide landscape
architecture services at 6.71% ($5,000.00) of the amendment amount.
Swygert & Associates, of Cayce, SC, will provide mechanical engineering services at
2.08% ($1,550.30) of the amendment amount.
Belka Engineering Associates, of Columbia, SC, will provide electrical engineering
services at 4.05% ($3,015.50) of the amendment amount.
9. Council is asked to approve Contract Amendment #2 for Project SS7645; Train 2
Aeration Dewatering System, as requested by Columbia Water on March 2, 2026.
Award to Alfa Laval, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $290,374.00. The current
term of the contract ends on June 30, 2026. This firm is located in Richmond, VA.
Funding Source: Water and Sewer Capital Projects -Train 2 Aeration and Dewatering
- Capital Project Costs (5529999-SS764501-658650). The current budget amount is
$809,880.12. The budget amount for this amendment is $290,374.00. The revised
budget amount is $1,100,254.12.
10. Ordinance No.: 2026-017 - Authorizing the City Manager to execute an Eleventh
Amendment to Lease between the City of Columbia and Old Boy Properties, LLC for
property consisting of 100± acres in Richland County, South Carolina being a
portion of the property formerly owned by Columbia Venture, LLC and Sunday
School, LLC
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
11. Ordinance No.: 2026-022 - Consenting to the Inclusion of Property in a Multi-County
Industrial/Business Park (Project Cardinal TMS #R08913-05-03 and R08913-05-05)
Endorsed by the Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee on February
10, 2026.
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
12. Comprehensive Plan – Future Land Use Map Amendment Confirmation for 1227 and
1235 Bakersfield Road, 106, 112, 118, 119, 130, 131 and 140 Diamond Lane, and
1049, 1057, and 1065 Statler Road, TMS# 07402-04-16, 07402-04-10, 07401-06-
01, and 07401-06-02; annexed by Ordinance No 2025-106 enacted January 6, 2026
Ordinance No.: 2026-018 - Amending the Columbia Compass: Envision 2036 Map to
confirm the future land use classification for 1227 and 1235 Bakersfield Road, 106,
112, 118, 119, 130, 131 and 140 Diamond Lane, and 1049, 1057, and 1065 Statler
Road, TMS# 07402-04-16, 07402-04-10, 07401-06-01, and 07401-06-02; annexed
by Ordinance No 2025-106 enacted January 6, 2026
Council District: 2
Proposal: Request to confirm the future land use classifications of Urban Core
Community Activity Center (UCAC-2) and Urban Edge Residential Large Lot (UER-
2). The properties are currently assigned interim future land use classifications of
Urban Core Community Activity Center (UCAC-2) and Urban Edge Residential Large
Lot (UER-2).
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Applicant: Justin Steinmann, Planning & Development Services Director
Staff Recommendation: Approval
Annexation with Interim Future Land Use
PC Recommendation: 11/13/2025; Approval (8-0)
First Reading: 12/16/2025; Approved
Second Reading: 01/06/2026; Approved
Future Land Use Confirmation
PC Recommendation: 02/12/2026; Approval (5-0)
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
13. Zoning Map Amendment Confirmation for 1227 and 1235 Bakersfield Road, 106,
112, 118, 119, 130, 131 and 140 Diamond Lane, and 1049, 1057, and 1065 Statler
Road, Richland County TMS# 07402-04-16, 07402-04-10, 07401-06-01, and
07401-06-02; annexed by Ordinance No 2025-106 enacted January 6, 2026
Ordinance No.: 2026-021 - Amending the Official Zoning Map to confirm the zoning
for 1227 and 1235 Bakersfield Road, 106, 112, 118, 119, 130, 131 and 140
Diamond Lane, and 1049, 1057, and 1065 Statler Road, Richland County TMS#
07402-04-16, 07402-04-10, 07401-06-01, and 07401-06-02; annexed by
Ordinance No 2025-106 enacted January 6, 2026.
Council District: 2
Proposal: Request to confirm zoning of Community Activity Center/Corridor District
(CAC) and Residential Single Family Large Lot District (RSF-1). The properties are
currently assigned interim zoning of Community Activity Center/Corridor District
(CAC) and Residential Single Family Large Lot District (RSF-1).
Applicant: Andrew Livengood, Zoning Administrator
Staff Recommendation: Approval
Annexation with Interim Zoning
PC Recommendation: 11/13/2025; Approval (8-0)
First Reading: 12/16/2025; Approved
Second Reading: 01/06/2026; Approved
Zoning Map Amendment Confirmation
PC Recommendation: 02/12/2026; Approval (5-0)
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
14. Zoning Map Amendment for 150 Dutchman Boulevard, 5.71 acres N/S Lake Murray
Boulevard, 3.56 acres and 0.52 acres S/S Broad River Road TMS# 05000-04-40,
05000-04-45, 05000-04-47, and 05003-01-18
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Ordinance No.: 2026-020 - Amending the Official Zoning Map to modify the zoning
for 150 Dutchman Boulevard, 5.71 acres N/S Lake Murray Boulevard, 3.56 acres
and 0.52 acres S/S Broad River Road, Richland County TMS# 05000-04-40, 05000-
04-45, 05000-04-47, and 05003-01-18
Council District: 1
Proposal: Request to rezone the properties from Light Industrial (LI) and Planned
Development (PD) to Mixed Use District (MU-2).
Applicant: Talfourd Wharton, Stoa Group
Staff Recommendation: Approval
PC Recommendation: 02/12/2026; Approval (5-0)
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
15. Annexation, Future Land Use Map Amendment, and Zoning Map Amendment for 450
and 460 Lake Murray Boulevard; TMS# 05000-04-19 and 05000-04-20
Ordinance No.: 2026-019 - Annexing 450 and 460 Lake Murray Boulevard, Richland
County TMS# 05000-04-19 and 05000-04-20 into the City of Columbia, South
Carolina, and Incorporating said property into Columbia Compass: Envision 2036
and the Official Zoning Map
Council District: 1
Proposal: Request to assign the land use classification of Urban Edge Regional
Activity Center (UEAC-2) and assign zoning of Mixed-Use District (MU-2) for a
pending annexation. The property is currently classified as Neighborhood (Medium
Density) and zoned Homestead (HM) and Residential Transition (RT) by Richland
County.
Applicant: Carroll Wayne and Francis W. Haltiwanger / Francis W. Haltiwanger and
Anita W. Cable/ Talfourd Wharton, Stoa Group
Staff Recommendation: Approval
PC Recommendation: 02/12/2026; Approval (5-0)
First reading approval was given on March 17, 2026.
Resolutions
16. Resolution No.: R-2026-030 - Approving the reissuance solely for federal tax
purposes by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia South Carolina of its not
to exceed $22,000,000 multifamily housing revenue note (Haven at Palmer Pointe
Project), pursuant to Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended; providing certain other matters in connection therewith; and providing an
effective date
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Mayor Rickenmann noted that City Council's approval of this resolution is required by law.
Upon a motion made by Mr. McDowell and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-030 — Approving the reissuance solely for
federal tax purposes by the Housing Authority of the City of Columbia South Carolina of its
not to exceed $22,000,000 multifamily housing revenue note (Haven at Palmer Pointe
Project), pursuant to Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;
providing certain other matters in connection therewith; and providing an effective date.
17. Resolution No.: R-2026-028 - Authorizing the City Manager to execute and ratifying
the execution of a Purchase and Sale Agreement as well as any necessary closing
documents between Orville Stanley Smith, III and the City of Columbia for the
purchase of 1950 Gervais Street, Richland County TMS #11405-11-38 and any
documents necessary and approved by the City Attorney to consummate the
purchase
Upon a motion made by Mr. Brennan and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-028 - Authorizing the City Manager to
execute and ratifying the execution of a Purchase and Sale Agreement as well as any
necessary closing documents between Orville Stanley Smith, III and the City of Columbia
for the purchase of 1950 Gervais Street, Richland County TMS #11405-11-38 and any
documents necessary and approved by the City Attorney to consummate the purchase.
18. Resolution No.: R-2026-027 - Certifying A Building Site as Abandoned Buildings
Pursuant to the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act, Title 12,
Chapter 67, Section 12-67-100 et seq., of the South Carolina Code of Laws (1976),
as amended, regarding the property located at 1701 Fig Street, City of Columbia,
Richland County TMS# R11404-10-08
Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-027 - Certifying A Building Site as
Abandoned Buildings Pursuant to the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act,
Title 12, Chapter 67, Section 12-67-100 et seq., of the South Carolina Code of Laws (1976),
as amended, regarding the property located at 1701 Fig Street, City of Columbia, Richland
County TMS# R11404-10-08.
19. Resolution No.: R-2026-026 - Certifying A Building Site as Abandoned Buildings
Pursuant to the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act, Title 12,
Chapter 67, Section 12-67-100 et seq., of the South Carolina Code of Laws (1976),
as amended, regarding the property located at 875 Catawba Street, City of
Columbia, Richland County TMS #R08913-05-03 and R08913-05-05, together
consisting of approximately 2.2 acres
Upon a motion made by Mr. Brennan and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-026 - Certifying A Building Site as
Abandoned Buildings Pursuant to the South Carolina Abandoned Buildings Revitalization Act,
Title 12, Chapter 67, Section 12-67-100 et seq., of the South Carolina Code of Laws (1976),
as amended, regarding the property located at 875 Catawba Street, City of Columbia,
Richland County TMS #R08913-05-03 and R08913-05-05, together consisting of
approximately 2.2 acres.
Public Hearing
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20. Proposed Vista Business Improvement District Plan - Ms. Carey Dunfey, Associate
Director / JLP+D and Mr. Scott Garvin, Vista Property Owners Organization
Mr. Scott Garvin, representative for the Vista Property Owners Organization said a lot has
changed over 30 years, and the Vista is on the cusp of a lot more activity. He acknowledged
that he is a developer and owns properties in the Vista and on Main Street. As a member of
the Main Street District Board, he had an inside view of their effective management. Over a
year ago, the Vista Property Owners Organization decided to push for a business
improvement district (BID) and over 20 property owners agreed. The Vista Property Owners
Organization assembled a steering committee and with the city's approval, hired JLP+D to
help establish the BID. The three goals are to provide resources to strengthen and promote
the unique identity of the Vista; eliminate silos between Main Street and the Vista; and
utilize the model and structure that is already in place.
Ms. Carey Dunfey, Associate Director / JLP+D said the Vista is a unique and connected
center of activity that bridges downtown and the waterfront. The Vista can build on the
momentum that has been established by the Vista Guild and property owners. The proposed
model establishes a business improvement district (BID) in the Vista, where assessments
fund supplemental services overseen by a private non-profit accountable to both the City
and contributing property owners. Core priorities include maintaining a clean and safe
environment, creating a sustainable funding stream, enhancing the public realm, supporting
economic growth, and ensuring unified leadership. The BID will deliver services such as
daily maintenance, public space improvements, marketing and events, beautification, and
business advocacy and recruitment. District boundaries encompass the commercial core and
the emerging waterfront area along Taylor Street to Blossom Street and the waterfront to
Assembly Street, excluding the University of South Carolina, nonprofit, owner-occupied, and
publicly owned properties. All included properties will pay a standard assessment at the rate
of $0.001844 per $1 of value. An additional frontage-based assessment of $4 will be applied
to higher-service areas within the commercial core. Combined with a potential $400,000
hospitality tax contribution, total annual funding could reach $2 million. The improvement
plan has been submitted for review.
Council opened the Public Hearing at 4:44 p.m.
Mr. Dale Marshall, has served as an architect in the Vista for the past 39 years. He reflected
on the area’s significant growth and expressed support for the establishment of the BID. He
stated that the BID would provide a framework to better analyze and manage anticipated
growth over the next decade. He believes it is a necessary next step to ensure the Vista
remains a vibrant place where people can live, work, play, and enjoy the arts.
Ms. Beth Frost, President/ Congaree Vista Guild Board of Directors expressed support for
the BID and highlighted the Guild’s 40-year history as an active community organization.
She noted its role in promoting the district through events such as Artista Vista and Vista
Lights. With the establishment of a BID, the area is well-positioned for continued growth
and expansion.
Ms. Carolyn Lee Decker, President / Vista Neighborhood Association expressed support for
the BID and believes it will foster growth and enhance neighborhood value. She emphasized
the importance of ensuring the BID continues to prioritize the district’s foundation of
history, culture, and the arts. She also requested that a representative from the
neighborhood association be included on the board.
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Mr. Matt Kennell, President and CEO / Main Street District expressed support for the BID,
noting that the Main Street District has benefited from a similar model for the past 25 years.
He shared that their leadership, board members, and property owners remain supportive
and confident in the success of the Vista. He added that the two districts already collaborate
regularly, and the BID would further strengthen that connection and reduce silos across the
city. He encouraged City Council to approve the BID.
Council adjourned the Public Hearing at 4:55 p.m.
Councilor Brown noted that this was the seventh thank you that City Council has received
this year.
Ordinances - First Reading
21. Ordinance No.: 2026-024 - Approval for Acceptance of a Quit-Claim Deed to 44 sq.
ft. for Assemblage with the City’s Bluff Road Pressure Reducing Valve Site; Richland
County TMS#13605-01-02; CF#89-148
Upon a motion made by Mr. Johnson and seconded by Mr. Bailey, Council voted
unanimously to give first reading approval to Ordinance No.: 2026-024 - Approval for
Acceptance of a Quit-Claim Deed to 44 sq. ft. for Assemblage with the City’s Bluff Road
Pressure Reducing Valve Site; Richland County TMS#13605-01-02; CF#89-148.
22. Ordinance No.: 2026-027 - Granting an encroachment to Fifth Third Bank for the
use of the right of way area of the 100 block of Earth Road for the installation and
maintenance of sidewalks adjacent to 181 Earth Road, Richland County TMS#
25700-04-12
Upon a motion made by Mr. Bailey and seconded by Mr. Johnson, Council voted
unanimously to give first reading approval to Ordinance No.: 2026-027 - Granting an
encroachment to Fifth Third Bank for the use of the right of way area of the 100 block of
Earth Road for the installation and maintenance of sidewalks adjacent to 181 Earth Road,
Richland County TMS# 25700-04-12.
Event Resolutions
23. Resolution No.: R-2026-032 - Ratifying and Authorizing the consumption of beer
and wine only at Friday After Class (FAC) Festival for Steven Tanneyhill at Greene
Street between Harden Street and Pavillion Avenue on Friday, April 3, 2026
Upon a motion made by Mr. Johnson and seconded by Mr. Brennan, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-032 - Ratifying and Authorizing the
consumption of beer and wine only at Friday After Class (FAC) Festival for Steven Tanneyhill
at Greene Street between Harden Street and Pavillion Avenue on Friday, April 3, 2026.
24. Resolution No.: R-2026-034 - Authorizing consumption of beer, wine and liquor for
the area known as Coble Plaza, located at 211 Gervais Street, adjacent to
EdVenture Children’s Museum for the Jim Clyburn’s World Famous Fish Fry on
Friday, May 29, 2026
Upon a motion made by Mr. Johnson and seconded by Mr. Bailey, Council voted
unanimously to approve Resolution No.: R-2026-034 - Authorizing consumption of beer,
wine and liquor for the area known as Coble Plaza, located at 211 Gervais Street, adjacent
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to EdVenture Children’s Museum for the Jim Clyburn’s World Famous Fish Fry on Friday,
May 29, 2026.
Appointment of City Council Members to External Boards
Upon a single motion made by Mayor Rickenmann and seconded by Mr. Brown, Council
voted unanimously to approve the appointment of The Honorable Sam P. Johnson to the
Columbia Museum of Art Commission and the appointment of The Honorable Tyler D. Bailey
to the Historic Columbia Foundation Board.
25. Council is asked to approve the appointment of one City Council Member to the
Columbia Museum of Art Commission.
26. Council is asked to approve the appointment of one City Council Member to the
Historic Columbia Foundation Board.
City Council Committee Reports, Referrals and New Business
Upon a motion made by Mr. Johnson and seconded by Mr. Bailey, Council voted
unanimously to refer a presentation on the localized care options that are offered by Prisma
Health to the Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee. The purpose of the
referral is for the committee to review Prisma’s available community-based care resources
and explore how these services can be leveraged to address challenges, particularly within
the 29203 zip code.
Councilor Bailey requested an update on a referral regarding how economic development
can play a role in incentivizing localized care options in North Columbia.
Mayor Rickenmann said it would be helpful to engage with communities in North Columbia
to ensure that these initiatives are fruitful.
Public Input
Individuals are allotted up to three minutes to address City Council about matters not
on the agenda. Items requiring a public hearing cannot be addressed at this time.
Ms. Christy Fossum, 2917 Blossom Street, expressed concerns about the lack of a bus
terminal in Columbia and the difficulty in obtaining clear information. She noted the
hardship this creates for residents and asked about any plans to reestablish a terminal. She
also sought clarification on whether bus carriers lack a designated site and expressed
interest in serving on a citizen advisory group to help address the issue.
Mayor Rickenmann stated that early discussions are underway with Amtrak, including
potential federal funding opportunities. He noted that Southeastern Stages previously
explored multiple locations but selected a site that created challenges for surrounding
communities. He added that the City and transit partners are continuing to evaluate long-
term intermodal solutions.
Ms. Catherine Fleming Bruce, 2214 Hampton Street, expressed concerns about limited
resources to meet historic preservation guidelines and proposed a grant program to assist
property owners in historic districts, including Historic Waverly. She suggested funding
through hospitality tax or similar sources to support restoration, assessments, and urgent
repairs. The program would be administered through a partnership between the City’s
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Planning and Community Development departments. She encouraged City Council to
consider the proposal during upcoming budget discussions.
Mayor Rickenmann said that additional research is needed regarding the state statute. He
noted that the Bailey Bill was established to provide tax relief for property owners, which
may already address some of the concerns raised. He added that the City will also explore
options such as weatherization programs and other available resources. Staff will review the
proposal further and report back with findings.
Councilor Brennan asked what percentage of individuals in the Historic Waverly community
would fall into the senior category.
Ms. Catherine Fleming Bruce, 2214 Hampton Street, said she believes it is around 70%.
Councilor Brown asked about the definition of a historical-cultural tourism property.
Ms. Catherine Fleming Bruce, 2214 Hampton Street, clarified that the term comes directly
from hospitality tax documentation and is defined in a tourism context. She explained that it
refers to properties that contribute to tourism, noting that these neighborhoods are featured
in bus tours, online tours, and other programming promoted by Historic Columbia.
Councilor Brown also asked why it would matter if someone has a mortgage or if they own
their home outright.
Ms. Catherine Fleming Bruce, 2214 Hampton Street, explained that she gathered that
language from another type of grant.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 5:09 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted:
Erika D. Moore Hammond, MMC, CPM
City Clerk
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Agenda
Columbia City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM
City Hall • Mayor's Conference Room
1737 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Columbia, SC 29201
City Clerk’s Office: (803)545-3045 or cityclerk@columbiasc.gov
The Honorable Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor
The Honorable Edward H. McDowell, Jr. • The Honorable William Brennan
The Honorable Tina N. Herbert, Mayor Pro-Tempore • The Honorable Peter
M. Brown
The Honorable Tyler D. Bailey • The Honorable Sam P. Johnson
Call to Order
Invocation
Adoption of the Agenda
Executive Session
1. Receipt of legal advice relating to a pending, threatened or potential claim pursuant
to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Ballpark, LLC v. City of Columbia, et al.
Betsy Newman, et al. v. City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals
2. Receipt of legal advice relating to matters covered by attorney-client privilege
pursuant to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Columbia Canal Hydroelectric Facility Restoration
Adjournment
Page 1 of 1
Packet
Columbia City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 2:00 PM
City Hall • Mayor's Conference Room
1737 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Columbia, SC 29201
City Clerk’s Office: (803)545-3045 or cityclerk@columbiasc.gov
The Honorable Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor
The Honorable Edward H. McDowell, Jr. • The Honorable William Brennan
The Honorable Tina N. Herbert, Mayor Pro-Tempore • The Honorable Peter
M. Brown
The Honorable Tyler D. Bailey • The Honorable Sam P. Johnson
Call to Order
Invocation
Adoption of the Agenda
Executive Session
1. Receipt of legal advice relating to a pending, threatened or potential claim pursuant
to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Ballpark, LLC v. City of Columbia, et al.
Betsy Newman, et al. v. City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals
2. Receipt of legal advice relating to matters covered by attorney-client privilege
pursuant to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Columbia Canal Hydroelectric Facility Restoration
Adjournment
Page 1 of 1
Page 1 of 3
Meeting Date: April 14, 2026
Department: City Clerk’s Office
From:
Receipt of legal advice relating to a pending, threatened or potential claim pursuant
to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Ballpark, LLC v. City of Columbia, et al.
Betsy Newman, et al. v. City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals
Background Summary:
Attachments:
None
Page 1
Page 2 of 3
Meeting Date: April 14, 2026
Department: City Clerk’s Office
From:
Receipt of legal advice relating to matters covered by attorney-client privilege
pursuant to S.C. Code §30-4-70(a)(2)
Columbia Canal Hydroelectric Facility Restoration
Background Summary:
Attachments:
None
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