Kristin Holzer, Author at City of Columbia, Columbia SC https://columbiasc.gov/author/kholzer/ Together, We Are Columbia. Wed, 15 Jul 2026 19:41:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://columbiasc.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-cola-favicon-32x32.png Kristin Holzer, Author at City of Columbia, Columbia SC https://columbiasc.gov/author/kholzer/ 32 32 City of Columbia Advises Customers to Be Aware of Fraudulent Planning & Development Payment Scams https://columbiasc.gov/city-of-columbia-advises-customers-to-be-aware-of-fraudulent-planning-development-payment-scams/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 14:33:15 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=784755 The post City of Columbia Advises Customers to Be Aware of Fraudulent Planning & Development Payment Scams appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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(Columbia, SC) – The City of Columbia is advising residents, design professionals, architects, developers, contractors and others conducting business with the Planning & Development Services Department to remain vigilant against fraudulent payment scams involving Planning & Development applications, invoices and payment requests.

These types of scams have become a reoccurring issue nationwide, which targets individuals and businesses involved in planning, permitting and development activities. Fraudulent invoices and requests may appear legitimate and typically attempt to redirect payments through unauthorized methods or websites.

To help protect yourself and your business, please remember the following:

  • Use only the City’s official payment portal for Planning & Development applications, permits and related fees by visiting: https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/payments/.
  • Verify the sender’s email address. Official invoices and payment requests from the City of Columbia Planning & Development Services Department will only originate from an email address ending in @columbiasc.gov (for example, Energov@columbiac.gov or Energov_DoNotReply@columbiasc.gov)
  • The City of Columbia does not request payment by wire transfer. Any request to submit payment via wire transfer should be considered fraudulent.

If you receive a suspicious invoice, payment request or email claiming to be from the City of Columbia, do not submit payment until you have verified its authenticity.

If you have questions or believe you may have received a fraudulent invoice or payment request, please contact the City of Columbia Planning & Development Services Department at (803) 545-3420 before making any payment.

The City of Columbia remains committed to protecting residents, businesses and development partners by providing secure payment options and encouraging the public to remain alert to evolving scams.

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]]> Current City Poet Laureate Will Not Renew Term, One Columbia Opens Search for Next City Poet Laureate https://columbiasc.gov/current-city-poet-laureate-will-not-renew-term-one-columbia-opens-search-for-next-city-poet-laureate/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:54:55 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=784751 The post Current City Poet Laureate Will Not Renew Term, One Columbia Opens Search for Next City Poet Laureate appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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Columbia, SC — July 15, 2026 — Jennifer Bartell Boykin has served as the second Poet Laureate of the City of Columbia since 2023. Her four year term ends on December 31, 2026, and she will not seek a second term. “Poetry saved my life and has brought me so much joy and connection,” Boykin said. “I have enjoyed sharing poetry with the city these past four years.” 

During her time as Poet Laureate, Boykin founded the Soda City Poetry Festival, which hosted poetry workshops, readings, and poetic conversations for the city. Additionally, she penned the poem “Finally Finlay” for the grand opening of Finlay Park in 2025 and has taught poetry workshops through the city and the state. 

One Columbia for Arts and Culture serves as an administrative and artistic collaborator between the poet laureate and city officials. One Columbia, through powers established in Resolution R-2014-08, convenes a committee responsible for selecting the next poet laureate. 

Applications are now open for the next City of Columbia Poet Laureate, which is an honorary position that recognizes a poet who champions poetry and increases poetic engagement across the city. The organization invites poets from across Columbia to apply; this includes any poet with a verified Columbia, South Carolina address. The application is available on the One Columbia website, under the What We Do Section, City Poet Laureate. 

The application window will run through September. A selection committee will convene in October to review candidates and identify the individual best suited to serve as an ambassador for poetry and literature throughout the city. One Columbia will announce the new Poet Laureate in November during Boykin’s final official reading event, a fitting moment to honor the outgoing laureate while welcoming her successor. 

In accordance with the City of Columbia’s Poet Laureate Resolution, the selection committee will include representatives of the Mayor’s Office and the Arts, History & Preservation Committee, members of the local literary arts community, and other individuals with relevant expertise. This diverse and thoughtful committee structure ensures the process remains firmly connected to the city and its civic mission. 

“Columbia has a vibrant poetry community of page poets and stage poets. It’s time for the next poet to carry the laureateship forward,” Boykin said. 

The Poet Laureate serves as a public advocate for poetry, literature, and creative expression, sharing work at community events and encouraging residents of all ages to engage with the arts. One Columbia looks forward to continuing this meaningful tradition and celebrating the power of poetry to connect and inspire the people of Columbia.

About One Columbia for Arts and Culture 

One Columbia for Arts and Culture is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting collaboration and cooperation among the artists, cultural organizations, and residents of Columbia, South Carolina. Through programs, partnerships, and public initiatives, One Columbia works to elevate the city’s creative community and strengthen the role of arts and culture in civic life. The organization champions accessible, community-centered programming that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of Columbia. 

Media Contact: 

Xavier Blake 

Executive Director 

info@onecolumbiasc.com

 

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]]> City Officials Provide Update on Finlay Park Incident, Public Safety Measures and Youth Resources https://columbiasc.gov/city-officials-provide-update-on-finlay-park-incident-public-safety-measures-and-youth-resources/ Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:47:06 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=784563 The post City Officials Provide Update on Finlay Park Incident, Public Safety Measures and Youth Resources appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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City of Columbia officials held a press briefing on June 22 to provide an update regarding the incident that occurred during the South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest celebration at Finlay Park on Saturday, June 20.

During the briefing, Columbia Police Chief W.H. “Skip” Holbrook outlined the events that led to the early conclusion of the festival. While thousands of residents and visitors attended the event throughout the day without incident, a series of disturbances involving a group of juveniles occurred during the evening hours. Reports included individuals bypassing security checkpoints, multiple fights throughout the park, and the recovery of ammunition near the playground area.

As disturbances escalated, officers responded to multiple incidents across the park and additional law enforcement resources were called in to assist. In consultation with event organizers, city officials made the decision to end the event early in the interest of public safety.

“Public safety was our highest priority,” said Chief Holbrook. “Based on the information available at the time, officers took decisive action to protect attendees and safely evacuate the park. We are grateful for the cooperation of the thousands of residents who exited the park in an orderly manner.”

Chief Holbrook reported that investigators have identified approximately 12 to 15 juveniles believed to have been involved in the disturbances. Multiple juvenile petitions are being prepared, and the investigation remains ongoing. Officials also confirmed that while ammunition was recovered, no firearm was located.

City Manager Teresa Wilson reaffirmed the City’s commitment to maintaining Finlay Park as a safe, family-friendly destination and announced the implementation of a permanent Unaccompanied Minors Policy for Finlay Park.

Effective June 21, 2026, anyone 17 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult age 21 or older to enter or remain in Finlay Park after 5:00 p.m., seven days a week.

“Finlay Park is a significant investment in our community, and there is zero tolerance for behavior that threatens the safety and enjoyment of residents and visitors,” said Wilson. “We will continue providing positive opportunities for young people while ensuring that public spaces remain safe for everyone.”

City officials also emphasized that Columbia has a wide range of programs, resources, and opportunities available for youth and families. Assistant City Manager Henry Simons highlighted the City’s ongoing investments in youth engagement through Parks and Recreation programs, Columbia Police Department youth initiatives, workforce development opportunities, and internship programs.

Current opportunities include:

• Traditional and teen summer camps
• Golf and kayak camps
• Youth basketball leagues
• Prime Time in the Parks and Midnight Basketball
• Police Athletic League (PAL) programs
• Youth Justice Ambassadors Program
• Summer block parties and youth engagement events
• Workforce development programs through the Columbia Urban League
• Paid high school and college internship opportunities

This summer, the City of Columbia is supporting 103 interns across multiple departments, including high school students from Richland School District One and Richland School District Two, college students, and youth participants in workforce development programs.

Officials encouraged parents and community members to remain engaged, utilize available resources, and partner with the City to create positive opportunities for young people.

The City of Columbia and Columbia Police Department will continue reviewing evidence, identifying individuals involved in the disturbances, and implementing measures to maintain a safe environment for all visitors to Finlay Park.

For information about youth programs and resources available throughout the City of Columbia, visit columbiasc.gov.

City of Columbia Providing Opportunities for Our Youth to Stay Positively Engaged

The City of Columbia offers a variety of programs and activities designed to keep youth engaged, active and connected throughout the year. These opportunities provide safe environments that encourage personal growth, leadership development, academic enrichment, recreation and positive community involvement.

Click to View PDF for Youth Programs

Update on Finlay Park Incident and Public Safety Measures | June 22, 2026

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]]> Public Information Meeting for Main Street Vista District Connector Project https://columbiasc.gov/public-information-meeting-for-main-street-vista-district-connector-project/ Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:15:03 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=783663 Who: The City of Columbia and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) What: The City of Columbia and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) proposes to improve pedestrian...

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What: The City of Columbia and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) proposes to improve pedestrian and motorist safety along Assembly Street from Pendleton Street to Lady Street in downtown Columbia. As part of this effort, the City and SCDOT will host a public information meeting to share details about the Main Street Vista District Connector project and gather community feedback. The Main Street/Vista District Connector is being undertaken to improve pedestrian safety by improving pedestrian lighting, installing high-visibility crosswalks with curb bump outs to reduce crossing distance, and adding traffic calming measures through landscaping and beautification elements. This safety improvement project is designed to enhance pedestrian facilities without affecting vehicular capacity.

This project reflects the City of Columbia’s ongoing commitment to thoughtful, strategic growth that prioritizes both safety and quality of life. As downtown Columbia continues to evolve, projects like the Main Street Vista District Connector are designed to create spaces that are not only functional, but also welcoming, accessible, and people-focused. By investing in enhanced pedestrian infrastructure, improved visibility, and intentional design elements, the City of Columbia is working to ensure that residents and visitors alike can safely and comfortably experience all that downtown has to offer.

The public information meeting will be held in a drop in format with no formal presentation.

The City of Columbia and SCDOT will be accepting written comments from the public during the Public Information Meeting and through the project website: https://growth.columbiasc.gov/portfolio/assembly-street-connector/.

Comments for this project will be accepted through May 15, 2026.

When: Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Where: Capital Center, Lower Lobby, Gervais Street Entrance, 1201 Main Street

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]]> City of Columbia and Columbia Police Department Share Festival and Safety Information for St. Pat’s in Five Points https://columbiasc.gov/city-of-columbia-and-columbia-police-department-share-festival-and-safety-information-for-st-pats-in-five-points/ Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:51:14 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=783218 (Columbia, SC) – The City of Columbia and the Columbia Police Department (CPD) are sharing important festival information and safety reminders for those planning to attend St. Pat’s in Five...

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]]> (Columbia, SC) – The City of Columbia and the Columbia Police Department (CPD) are sharing important festival information and safety reminders for those planning to attend St. Pat’s in Five Points. With large crowds expected, residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and review festival policies, transportation options and road closures before arriving.

Festival Policies and Safety Reminders

Those attending the event should note several important policies in place to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

  1. The festival is cashless.
  2. A clear bag policy will be enforced within the festival footprint.
  3. Attendees may bring one empty clear water bottle. Hydration stations will be available throughout the festival area. Please stay hydrated.
  4. For a full list of rules and policies, including prohibited and approved items, visit: https://stpatscolumbia.com/faq/
  5. EMS services will be located near the intersection of Santee Street and Devine Street.
  6. Lost and Found will be located at the Pat’s Festival Tent.
  7. Attendees are encouraged to bring a portable battery pack to keep phones charged, if needed to contact their ride or request a rideshare when leaving the event.

Transportation and Parking

Those attending are encouraged to plan transportation in advance.

  • Parking is encouraged at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds, where shuttle services will be available.
    • Ride shares are strongly encouraged, with a designated drop off location at the intersection of Laurens Street and Blossom Street.
    • For complete parking and transportation information, visit: https://stpatscolumbia.com/parking/

If driving, please utilize a designated driver. Those walking to the event are encouraged to walk in groups or pairs.

Neighborhood Courtesy

Public safety personnel will be stationed both inside the festival footprint and in surrounding areas to assist attendees and help ensure safety throughout the event.

Visitors are asked to respect surrounding neighborhoods by avoiding parking in residential areas and properly disposing of trash and litter.

Get to the Green – Race Update

Please note the race start location has moved this year to Maxcy Gregg Park, 1806 Blossom St., Columbia, SC 29201.

Road Closures

The following road closures will be in effect in the Five Points area:

From 8:00 a.m., Friday, March 13 until 11:59 p.m., Saturday, March 14

  1. 2100 Greene St.

From 6:00 p.m., Friday, March 13 until 11:59 p.m., Saturday March 14

  1. 600 Block of Harden Street
  2. 700 Block of Saluda Avenue
  3. 700 Block of Santee Avenue

From 2:00 a.m., Saturday, March 14 until 11:59, Saturday March 14

  1. Blossom Street between Pickens Street and Heidt Street
  2. Greene Street between Laurens Street and Heidt Street
  3. Devine Street between Laurens Street and Millwood Avenue
  4. Saluda Avenue between Greene Street and Blossom Street
  5. Harden Street between Blossom Street and Pendleton Street
  6. Santee Avenue between Blossom Street and Heidt Street
  7. College Street between Laurens Street and Pine Street

The City of Columbia and the Columbia Police Department encourage everyone attending St. Pat’s in Five Points to celebrate responsibly and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

For additional festival information, visit https://stpatscolumbia.com/.

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]]> After Hours-Help Workshop https://columbiasc.gov/after-hours-help-workshop/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:49:56 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=782902 The post After Hours-Help Workshop appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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]]> City of Columbia Held Riverfront District Project Kickoff and Overview Sessions for City of Columbia and Richland County Councils https://columbiasc.gov/city-of-columbia-held-riverfront-district-project-kickoff-and-overview-sessions-for-city-of-columbia-and-richland-county-councils/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:13:03 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=782722 The post City of Columbia Held Riverfront District Project Kickoff and Overview Sessions for City of Columbia and Richland County Councils appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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Riverfront Park FAQ Flyer FO Comments Updated 12-16

On February 9 and 10, 2026, two Riverfront District Project kickoff and overview sessions were held for Columbia City Council and Richland County Council to provide an introduction to the vision, purpose and planning process for the future riverfront district along the Congaree River. The project aims to create a premier multipurpose public park that enhances community engagement, supports environmental sustainability and expands recreational, educational and economic opportunities for the region.

Both sessions took place at Senate’s End and included a site visit of the planned public park.

Session One

February 9, 2026

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1
1

Session Two

February 10, 2026

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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]]> City of Columbia Urges Residents to be Prepared for Inclement Winter Weather https://columbiasc.gov/winter-weather-preparedness/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:16:27 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=782381 The post City of Columbia Urges Residents to be Prepared for Inclement Winter Weather appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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The City of Columbia Will be Closed on Monday, February 2 Due to Impacts of Winter Storm Gianna

 

Due to the impacts of winter storm Gianna, City of Columbia facilities will be closed on Monday, February 2, 2026.

Public safety and other essential functions will operate as normal. For all emergencies, please call 911.

Citizens are encouraged to access City services on-line or by calling 803-545-3300. The City of Columbia Payment Center, Municipal Court, Parking Services and Washington Square will be closed. City parks, recreational and community centers will also be closed.

For non-emergencies, water issues, downed trees and blocked roads, please contact Customer Care at (803) 545-3300.

To report power outages and downed power lines, please contact Dominion Energy at (888) 333-4465.

To report gas leaks, please contact Dominion Energy at (800) 815-0083.

City leadership will continue to monitor the weather and will make any necessary announcements regarding any further closings and/or delays. Please check your local news stations for office closing information.

Updates will be provided on the City’s website, www.ColumbiaSC.gov.

City of Columbia Adjusts Solid Waste Schedule due to Impacts of Winter Weather

Due to impacts of winter storm Gianna weather conditions and closure of the landfill, the City of Columbia Solid Waste Division will not provide garbage, recycling or yard trash collection services on Monday, February 2, 2026. All services will be pushed back one day, weather permitting.

  • Monday, February 2 services will be scheduled for Tuesday, February 3.
  • Tuesday, February 3 services will be scheduled for Wednesday, February 4.
  • Thursday, January 5 and Friday, January 6 will remain on regular schedule.

City officials are continuing to closely monitor weather conditions and operational impacts. Any adjustments to the solid waste collection schedule will be communicated if conditions change.

For updates on collection schedules, citizens are encouraged to download the Columbia, SC Solid Waste app or visit https://publicworks.columbiasc.gov/waste-wizard/ to register for notifications.

Additional updates will be shared through official City of Columbia communication channels, including www.ColumbiaSC.gov.

City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Facilities and Parks Closed This Weekend Due to Inclement Winter Weather

Due to inclement winter weather expected this weekend, all City of Columbia Parks and Recreation facilities and parks will be closed on Saturday, January 31, 2026 and Sunday, February 1, 2026.

City leadership will continue to monitor the weather and will make any necessary announcements regarding any further closings and/or delays. Please check your local news stations for office closing information.

For winter weather safety tips and preparedness information, visit https://columbiasc.gov/winter-weather-preparedness/.

The City of Columbia encourages everyone to prioritize safety during this time.

City of Columbia Urges Residents to be Prepared for Inclement Winter Weather

On Saturday, January 31, 2026 through Monday, February 2, 2026, the City of Columbia is forecasted to experience a mixture of winter precipitation and freezing temperatures that will make travel potentially hazardous.

The City of Columbia, Columbia-Richland Fire Department and the City of Columbia Police Department encourage residents to stay informed and adhere to public safety officials to stay safe during this period of inclement winter weather.

 

Below are a few winter safety tips we encourage residents to follow:

  1. Be careful walking and driving on ice, including black ice.
  2. Avoid travel, if possible, especially during freezing conditions and overnight when temperatures are expected to drop further
    1. If it is absolutely necessary to travel during a winter storm, slow down, increase your following distance, and stay alert.
    2. Pack your vehicle with emergency equipment including jumper cables, blankets, water, etc. in case you are temporarily immobile with your vehicle.
    3. In case of a minor collision without injuries, move your vehicle off the road and call your local law enforcement agency or dial *HP (*47) for assistance.
    4. Slow down well ahead of approaching intersections and/or bridges. Hard braking can cause your vehicle to slide if ice is present on the roadways.
  3. Check on your animals and ensure that their access to food and water is not blocked by ice or other obstacles. Shelter them indoors, if possible.
  4. Freezing temperatures can burst water pipes in homes that lack heat or proper insulation.  Wrap exposed pipes or take other measures to insulate them from the cold, and consider letting your faucets drip or slightly stream overnight to help prevent frozen pipes.
  5. If icy conditions bring down a power line near your home, DO NOT go near it! Call 9-1-1 immediately to report it and caution others to stay away from the downed line!
  6. Keep an emergency kit ready in case your home experiences a loss of power. This kit should include flashlights with spare batteries.
  7. Use flashlights for light in case you lose power. Avoid using candles!
  8. Never operate a portable generator indoors.
  9. Keep anything that can burn (e.g., paper, clothing, furniture) at least three feet away from portable space heaters to prevent fire hazards.

For more safety tips, please visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at www.SCEMD.org.

 

Stay updated to the City of Columbia for the latest updates and information regarding this inclement weather event.

Website | https://columbiasc.gov/winter-weather-preparedness/

Facebook & X | @CityofColumbia

Instagram | @CityofColumbiaSCGov

Tips to Be Prepared

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]]> Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee Highlights | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 https://columbiasc.gov/health-social-and-environmental-affairs-committee-highlights-tuesday-july-15-2025/ Tue, 15 Jul 2025 19:06:29 +0000 https://columbiasc.gov/?p=780064 The post Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee Highlights | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 appeared first on City of Columbia, Columbia SC.

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The City of Columbia’s Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee convened with City leadership and staff to discuss priorities and strategies that advance environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and community well-being.

The meeting featured an update on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG). Representatives from the Central Midlands Council of Governments  (COG)  presented details on an $8.7 million award allocated to the COG in partnership with local municipalities. The City of Columbia will directly benefit through two major projects: the Columbia Metro Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Project and reflective/cool pavement initiatives.

Key benefits of the Columbia Metro Wastewater Treatment Plant Solar Project include:

  • Economic: Long-term energy cost savings at a high-usage municipal site.
  • Community: 15% of the project’s energy savings will support local initiatives such as a water utility assistance fund.
  • Health: Reduction in air pollution.
  • Land Use: Space under the solar array will be utilized for native plant and pollinator habitat restoration.

Key benefits of reflective/cool pavement initiatives include:

  • Heat Reduction: Lower surface temperatures by reflecting more sunlight and absorbing less heat than traditional asphalt.
  • Public Health: Mitigates the urban heat island effect, reducing heat-related illnesses, especially in vulnerable communities.
  • Infrastructure Longevity: Helps extend the life of pavement and surrounding infrastructure by reducing thermal stress.
  • Energy Savings: Can reduce cooling demands in nearby buildings by decreasing ambient temperatures.

City of Columbia Forestry & Beautification staff also provided a recap of the Beat the Heat Grant, a collaborative initiative between the City of Columbia and Columbia Green. Although the federal grant was canceled in February 2025, the City successfully utilized $43,100 in awarded funds to deliver 990 trees in just six months, which was nearly two-thirds of the program’s five-year goal. The program also received additional support from International Paper ($25,000) and $61,200 in private donations.

More than 1,000 residents requested trees during three community outreach events, where they learned about the program, how trees can alleviate urban heat and the many other benefits trees bring to communities. The City is actively pursuing opportunities to continue this effort in collaboration with Columbia Green and other community partners.

To conclude the meeting, the City of Columbia’s Climate-Protection Action Campaign gave a presentation in regards to the City’s application to become a Bee City USA affiliate. This designation would formalize the City’s commitment to protecting pollinators, enhancing biodiversity, and advancing climate resilience through sustainable land management and community engagement.

Goals of the Bee City USA program include:

  • Expanding pollinator-friendly plantings on City properties
  • Promoting safe pest management practices
  • Raising awareness around pollinator conservation
  • Integrating pollinator-conscious policies into land management

These initiatives reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to environmental equity, public health, and quality of life through forward-thinking local leadership.

– About the Health, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee –
This committee reviews matters related to quality of life issues including homelessness, community partnerships, beautification, environmental and sustainability initiatives, and other related topics.

The committee is chaired by Councilwoman Dr. Aditi Bussells (At-Large); other committee members include Councilman Tyler D. Bailey (At-Large) and Councilman Edward H. McDowell, Jr. (District II).

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