Dominion Energy will begin performing tree trimming activities along overhead utility lines in the following neighborhoods on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Distribution Line Tree Trimming:

• Central Rosewood Neighborhood
• South Kilbourne Neighborhood
• Chestnut Hill Plantation
• Brandon Acres/Cedar Terrace Neighborhood
• Marks Wood Neighborhood Association
• Ashewood Homeowners Association

Citizens with specific questions or concerns should contact Forestry & Beautification at 803-545-3860 or Dominion Energy at 1-800-562-9308 to meet and discuss in advance of the work being completed.

Customers can also access Dominion Energy’s new website to follow the tree trimmers in real time at https://treetrimming.dominionenergyse.com/

The trimming will be completed by Dominion Energy’s contractors and work will be closely monitored by the City’s Certified Arborists from the Forestry & Beautification Division.

The purpose of the trimming activities is to increase safety and reliability of the electric service. The trimming guidelines include removing vegetation within 8-12 feet below, beside the power lines and up to 20 feet above the power lines.

Dominion Energy and their contractors trim in accordance with International Society of Arboriculture guidelines, using ANSI A300 pruning methods leaving good cuts that will generate new growth.

Dominion Energy’s re-conductor work includes pole replacements and new wire in select locations. The goal of re-conductor work is to improve reliability.

For more information about Dominion Energy’s tree trimming efforts, including helpful tips and suggestions regarding the planting of trees and other vegetation, visit www.dominionenergysc.com/treetrimming.

You can also contact Dominion Energy’s 24-hour Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-800-562-9308.

For continued updates from the City of Columbia follow us on X @cityofcolumbia or “like” the City of Columbia on Facebook.

(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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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

HPDRC_Agenda_July2026_Final

On Thursday, July 16, 2026, Historic Preservation Design Review Commission meeting will be held at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1737 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Members of the public and/or media who want to observe the meeting may do so in person or remotely by accessing the live stream at www.ColumbiaSC.gov or www.YouTube.com/CityOfColumbiaGovernment.

The public may submit letters and statements via e-mail to CoCDDRC@ColumbiaSC.gov prior to the meeting. Please be sure to include your name and the case information, such as the address and topic of the request.

Questions can be directed to the Planning Division (803) 545-3222. For additional information, please visit our website at https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/ddrc.

The City of Columbia’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement will host a Community Safety Summit: From Awareness to Action “Walking In Their Shoes” on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Busby Community Center, 1735 Busby St., Columbia, SC 29203.

Participants will:

• Review current local crime and community safety data
• Engage in hands-on role-play activities based on real-life scenarios
• Learn about available community resources and support services
• Collaborate on practical strategies and solutions to address community concerns
• Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by residents, service providers, and public safety professionals

Breakfast and lunch will be provided to participants. Space is limited.

To apply, sign up here or scan the registration QR code, which will be provided by the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement.

*Please see attached flyer

UDRC_Agenda_July2026_Final

On Wednesday, July 15, 2026, the Urban Design Review Commission meeting will be held at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1737 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Members of the public and/or media who want to observe the meeting may do so in person or remotely by accessing the live stream at www.ColumbiaSC.gov or www.YouTube.com/CityOfColumbiaGovernment.

The public may submit letters and statements via e-mail to CoCDDRC@ColumbiaSC.gov prior to the meeting. Please be sure to include your name and the case information, such as the address and topic of the request.

Questions can be directed to the Planning Division (803) 545-3222. For additional information, please visit our website at https://planninganddevelopment.columbiasc.gov/ddrc.

*Please see attached agenda

“The City of Columbia joins South Carolinians in mourning the passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham. We extend our deepest condolences to his sister, Darline, his family, his dedicated staff, and the countless friends, veterans, colleagues, and constituents whose lives were touched by his career in public service.

For more than 30 years in elected office, Senator Graham served South Carolina with honor after first serving our nation in the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps. His life was defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the people of our state.

Although his work often placed him on the world stage, Senator Graham never lost sight of home. He was a tireless champion for Columbia, working across party lines with our congressional delegation, state leaders, and local officials whenever our community needed an advocate. His leadership helped secure critical federal support for the Assembly Street Railroad Separation Project, including congressional appropriations and letters of support for federal grants. He also helped advance improvements to the Columbia Canal and Headgates, secured funding for Harden Street, supported infrastructure investments tied to Scout Motors, and worked tirelessly to help Columbia receive long-awaited FEMA funding following the devastating 2015 floods, federal assistance that took nearly a decade to bring across the finish line.

Senator Graham believed progress was achieved through partnership, not partisanship. Time and again, he put the needs of South Carolina above politics, and Columbia is stronger because of it.

On behalf of the City of Columbia, we are profoundly grateful for Senator Graham’s friendship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our capital city. His legacy will live on in the projects he helped make possible, the opportunities he created, and the example he set as a statesman who answered every call to serve. He will be deeply missed, but his impact on Columbia and South Carolina will endure for generations to come.”

– Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann, City of Columbia

Dominion Energy will begin performing tree trimming activities along overhead utility lines in the following neighborhoods on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Distribution Line Tree Trimming:

• Central Rosewood Neighborhood
• South Kilbourne Neighborhood
• Chestnut Hill Plantation
• Brandon Acres/Cedar Terrace Neighborhood
• St. Marks Wood Neighborhood Association
• Ashewood Homeowners Association

Citizens with specific questions or concerns should contact Forestry & Beautification at 803-545-3860 or Dominion Energy at 1-800-562-9308 to meet and discuss in advance of the work being completed.

Customers can also access Dominion Energy’s new website to follow the tree trimmers in real time at https://treetrimming.dominionenergyse.com/

The trimming will be completed by Dominion Energy’s contractors and work will be closely monitored by the City’s Certified Arborists from the Forestry & Beautification Division.

The purpose of the trimming activities is to increase safety and reliability of the electric service. The trimming guidelines include removing vegetation within 8-12 feet below, beside the power lines and up to 20 feet above the power lines.

Dominion Energy and their contractors trim in accordance with International Society of Arboriculture guidelines, using ANSI A300 pruning methods leaving good cuts that will generate new growth.

Dominion Energy’s re-conductor work includes pole replacements and new wire in select locations. The goal of re-conductor work is to improve reliability.

For more information about Dominion Energy’s tree trimming efforts, including helpful tips and suggestions regarding the planting of trees and other vegetation, visit www.dominionenergysc.com/treetrimming.

You can also contact Dominion Energy’s 24-hour Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-800-562-9308.

For continued updates from the City of Columbia follow us on X @cityofcolumbia or “like” the City of Columbia on Facebook.

Who: City of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities, District II Councilman Edward H. McDowell Jr.   

What: The City of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities will be hosting the grand opening of Fire King Pizza on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. City representatives will be in attendance. 

Fire King Pizza was not born in a boardroom; it was built one customer at a time. Tony Harrell who was the owner of Best Wings of Columbia wanted to solve a problem by offering pizza on their original menu. He was able to find Italian pizza makers who were able to help him solve the problem. Jeremy Belton was a customer of Tony’s and wanted to continue his support, so they began working together. With help from their family, the belief in Fire King Pizza gave it momentum to where it is today. 

Fire King Pizza offers handcrafted oversized pizza slices, specialty deep-dish pizzas, extra crispy wings, handcrafted specialty egg rolls, fresh house made lemonade, and other items. They are located on 1840 Hampton Street and are open from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 

When: Tomorrow, Friday, July 10, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

Where: 1840 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC, 29201

The City of Columbia Public Relations Department is proud to announce the kickoff of the 20th Annual Mayor’s Campaign Against Domestic Violence, a community-wide initiative benefiting SisterCare, the Midlands’ leading organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their children.

The annual campaign will run August 1, 2026 through October 31, 2026 bringing together residents, businesses, and community partners to raise awareness of domestic violence while collecting much-needed donations for SisterCare.

Throughout the campaign, the City will host three SisterCare Saturday fundraising events, where community members can stop by, dunk a local celebrity, learn more about SisterCare’s mission, make donations, and help support local survivors.

SisterCare Saturday Event Schedule

• Saturday, August 1 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  Intersection of Main and Washington Streets during Soda City Market
• Saturday, September 12 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  Green Space outside of Gather Cola
• Saturday, September 26 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  Intersection of Main and Washington Streets during Soda City Market

In addition to the fundraising events, the City will once again host its annual Mayor’s Campaign Toiletry Drive. From August through October, community members will have the opportunity to donate essential personal care items that directly benefit individuals and families served by SisterCare. A complete list of requested wish list items and community drop-off locations throughout the City will be released on or before August 1, 2026.

The campaign will conclude with the 20th Annual Mayor’s Walk Against Domestic Violence on Saturday, October 24, at Finlay Park. This milestone year promises an exciting new experience for participants, as organizers are planning to make the event bigger and better than ever before.

Additional details, including registration information and exciting announcements about this year’s enhanced event, will be released in the coming weeks.

Domestic violence affects thousands of individuals and families each year. Through the Mayor’s Campaign Against Domestic Violence, the City of Columbia continues its commitment to raising awareness, encouraging community involvement, and providing tangible support for those impacted by domestic violence.

Community members are encouraged to follow the City of Columbia’s social media channels and website for upcoming announcements, registration information, toiletry drive locations, and additional campaign updates.

For more information or to learn how to get involved, please contact the City of Columbia Public Relations Department by emailing pio@columbiasc.gov