Steve Camp Roll call

Council convened for its Wednesday work session shortly after 9 am. Council member Anne Sinclair was absent due to business. Other members present were Tameika Isaac Devine, Hamilton Osborne, E. W. Cromartie, Mayor Bob Coble, Sam Davis, and Daniel Rickenmann.

Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center

Steve Camp brought council up to date on the new convention center and its first month of operation. All reports were positive.

Hydrogen

Harris Pastides Dr. Harris Pastides of USC presented his ideas on developing both USC and Columbia as a “Hydrogen City,” something akin to Detroit’s Motor City or Las Vegas’ Sin City. Mayor Coble argued in favor of positioning Columbia as an industry cluster, the home of hydrogen in the next 20 years, by which time hydrogen energy could be a trillion–dollar industry.

Fast Forward

Dee Albritton, director, reported on the last quarter. Fast Forward runs computer courses and other programs at both Hand Middle School and 3223 Devine Street, between Earth Fare and Dreher. Hand is about to go through a massive renovation, so much of Hand’s installation is being moved to Devine Street. Set up for kids, Albritton’s operation invites adults to take the courses. For more information, call Ms. Albritton, 343.2577.

Mia Butler, Ronald Fulmer, and John West Jr.

Lobbyists

In response to the city’s request for proposals (RFP), three lobbying firms presented their credentials to council. The RFP asked for representation at the State House for the coming year. First was the team of Joe Grant and Larry Marchant. Second was Wendy Holmquist. And third was John West Jr., Ronald Fulmer, and Mia Butler.

Larry Marchant and Joe Grant

Next meeting

Council’s next work session is Wednesday morning at 9, October 13, on the third floor of City Hall, corner of Main and Laurel. There is no regular meeting scheduled then, but there will be both a work session and a regular meeting beginning at 9 am, Wednesday, October 20.

Wendy Holmquist Dee Albritton