Good morning to you Columbia! Catch up on our news and events right here. Keep reading to stay in the know. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: Who's in favor of bringing back Roman Numerals? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. This Midlands city is the latest to set new limits on short-term rentals (thestate.com) — New rules in neighboring West Columbia could affect how Columbia-area residents use or invest in short-term rentals, especially with Columbia having already tightened its own regulations after a 2025 shooting. West Columbia now requires permits, business licenses, strict occupancy limits, and parking and noise rules, with fines and permit suspensions possible for noncompliance starting Oct. 7.
2. How a water infrastructure crisis became a riverfront opportunity in Columbia, South Carolina (smartcitiesdive.com) — Columbia is moving ahead with major upgrades to its canal and water intake system while planning a new Congaree Riverfront District that will link parks, trails, and mixed-use development. City leaders emphasize resilience after the 2015 flood, while residents are helping shape plans for river access, walking and biking corridors, and future businesses that could boost the local tax base and quality of life.
3. One man was shot and another is in an SC jail, Richland County sheriff says (thestate.com) — A man was shot Wednesday morning in the St. Andrews area of Columbia near Beatty Road and Broad River Road, and deputies quickly arrested a suspect who allegedly admitted to the shooting. The victim was taken to a local hospital, while the accused is being held at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center awaiting a bond hearing and a November 20 court date.
4. Harry Lester Oakes Jr. (thecolumbiastar.com) — Local readers are informed of the passing of Harry Lester Oakes Jr., 79, who moved to Columbia, S.C., in 2021 with his wife, Gloria. He is remembered by his wife, five children, and six grandchildren, with a memorial service to be held privately at the family's convenience.
5. Newly classified boundaries go into effect in November (thecolumbiastar.com) — Richland County Council has finalized clarified boundary lines with neighboring counties that will take effect November 16, potentially shifting some Columbia-area residents' jurisdictions, schools, and voting precincts. Council also strengthened the county's smoking ordinance to cover vaping and hookah lounges, and heard calls to improve animal welfare oversight, signaling several policy changes that could touch daily life around Columbia.
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Ok Columbia! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I for 1. (Thank you Bill L. for sending it in!)
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