Columbia Invites Residents to Share Insights at Upcoming Community Input Meetings

Columbia Gears Up for Community Input Meetings!

Hey there, Columbia! As we roll into December, our lovely city is turning its focus on something super important: you! That’s right; your voice matters! Over the next two weeks, Columbia’s Community Development Department is hosting a series of citizen input meetings across all city council districts. This is your chance to speak up and share your thoughts on what our community needs most!

What’s the Big Idea?

So, why all the fuss about these meetings? Well, it’s part of an essential process that happens every five years, thanks to some regulations from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. They require cities like ours to create a Consolidated Action Plan. This plan is crucial as it helps to steer Columbia’s community development strategy.

During these meetings, city officials will gather input to assess priority needs in our community. This includes looking at demographics, understanding any barriers to fair housing, conducting market analyses, and most importantly, hearing from you, the citizens! Your insight is invaluable, and it’ll play a huge role in shaping the future of our neighborhoods.

Come Join Us!

Mark your calendars, folks! Here’s the schedule for the upcoming citizen input meetings:

• Council District 1 – Citizen Input Meeting
  Date: December 4, 2024
  Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  Where: Print Building, 3907 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203
• Council District 3 – Citizen Input Meeting
  Date: December 5, 2024
  Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  Where: Melrose Park Community Center, 1500 Fairview Drive, Columbia, SC 29205
• Council District 4 – Citizen Input Meeting
  Date: December 9, 2024
  Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  Where: 1117 Brandon Avenue, Columbia, SC 29209
• Council District 2 – Citizen Input Meeting
  Date: December 12, 2024
  Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  Where: Charles R. Drew Wellness Center, 2101 Walker Solomon Way, Columbia, SC 29204

These gatherings are a golden opportunity to share your views and be part of something bigger! Whether it’s housing, parks, public transportation, or community programs, this is your moment to shine. And don’t worry if you can’t make it in person; there’s an online community survey available in both Spanish and English, making it easier than ever for everyone to share their thoughts. Let your voice be heard!

The Weather Is Just Right!

Before you head out to these meetings, make sure you’re dressed for the weather! The forecast shows we’ll have some partly cloudy skies with a comfortable high of 58°F, perfect for an evening out. Just remember, it’s going to get chilly later, with a low of 28°F. So, wrap up warm!

Let’s Be Respectful

Lastly, when you attend these meetings or participate online, let’s keep it friendly! Everyone has a right to their opinion, and we want to create a welcoming atmosphere where all voices can be respected. So, please avoid any negative language and keep the tone positive.

Alright, Columbia! Get ready to make your voice heard and, together, let’s help shape our community into the place we all want it to be. Hope to see you at one of those meetings!