City Council Highlights | Tuesday, May 6, 2025

This evening’s City Council Meeting featured several proclamation presentations, including surprise recognitions honoring dedicated City of Columbia staff.

To kick off the evening, City Manager Teresa Wilson presented a surprise proclamation in celebration of Public Service Recognition Week, acknowledging the commitment and contributions of City of Columbia employees. Observed May 4–10, this annual event honors the essential role public servants play in delivering critical services and enhancing the quality of life in our community.

Ms. Wilson also presented a second surprise proclamation to City Clerk Erika D. Moore Hammond and Assistant City Clerk Levanie Summerville, recognizing May 4–10, 2025, as Professional Municipal Clerks Week. The proclamation expressed appreciation for all municipal clerks and their vital contributions to local government operations.

The regular presentation portion of the meeting began with the Mayor’s Campaign Against Breast Cancer presenting a check for $18,000 to the Prisma Health Midlands Foundation. The funds were raised through various events in 2024, including the Popcorn and Lemonade Sale and the Isabel Law Breast Cancer Breakfast.

Councilwoman Aditi Bussells followed with a proclamation recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrated from May 1 to May 31 this year. This month honors the culture, history, and achievements of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States and their significant contributions to our nation.

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann then presented three additional proclamations:

• Drinking Water Week (May 4–10, 2025), which highlights the essential role of clean and safe water in daily life.
• National Bike Month and Bicycle Safety Month, encouraging citizens to bike for transportation, fitness, and fun.
• National Historic Preservation Month, promoting the protection and appreciation of historic places.

In honor of Historic Preservation Month, the City’s Planning Department is hosting various events and activities throughout May to celebrate Columbia’s rich architectural history. Visit www.columbiacompass.org/celebratemay for details.

Additionally, Principal Planner Amy Moore presented the esteemed Mabel Payne Award to Scott Garvin, architect and owner of Garvin Design Group, in recognition of his outstanding efforts in historic preservation within the community.

Named for one of Columbia’s first city planners, the Mabel Payne Award honors individuals, organizations, and neighborhoods for exceptional leadership, education, conservation, or stewardship in support of Columbia’s built environment. Ms. Payne’s legacy, dating back to the 1950s, includes vital documentation of historic structures—many of which no longer exist—laying the foundation for preservation in the City of Columbia.

To watch the full City Council meeting, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhJDI2x1LtY

To view all City Council agendas, visit: https://columbiacitysc.iqm2.com/Citizens/calendar.aspx

For more information about upcoming City Council meetings or general information about the City of Columbia, visit: www.ColumbiaSC.gov