By John Temple LigonTemple@TheColumbiaStar.com

Paulette Ritter Roll call

City council convened at 8 am Wednesday for its work session and again at 10 am for its regular session and zoning public hearing. About 9 am, council adjourned for executive session behind closed doors until the regular session. Council members Anne Sinclair and Kirkman Finlay were absent. Present: Daniel Rickenmann, Sam Davis, Mayor Bob Coble, E. W. Cromartie, and Tameika Isaac Devine.

Washington lobbyist

Council approved a contract with Barbara T. McCall Associates to operate as a Washington office under the direction of the Columbia City Manager. The contract amount was not to exceed $57,540, plus reimbursable expenses not to exceed $5,000.

Sewers

Council approved a contract with Trussell Brothers, the low bidder, for sewer rehabilitation along Calhoun Street and Gregg Street. The contract amount was $125,080. The high bid was $319,400 by Carolina Tap & Bore.

Signage

Council approved a contract with Signage Industries, the low bidder, for construction, installation, and maintenance of a new city signage plan. The contract amount was $286,426. The high bid was $787,935 by Carolina Tap & Bore.

Senate Street Fire Station

Council approved the sale of the Senate Street Fire Station to Capitol Places VII for $1,750,000. Another $600,000 is offered if the city can accommodate parking. (See adjacent article)

Zoning public hearing

Council convened its public hearing at 10 am. The only appearance was by Paulette Ritter of 3501 Moss Avenue.

3501 Moss Avenue

Paulette Ritter, owner and occupant, appealed to council to allow her a zoning change to maintain an apartment for rent in the rear portion of her lot. Her son lived there under special care for special needs, and he moved, still needing special care under the direction of Paulette Ritter. Council approved Ritter's request to maintain a rental unit as an income stream to continue helping her son.

6701 Farrow Road

Council member Davis spoke in support of developer Charles Ruff and the 96 single-family residences on Farrow Road approved by council. The 15-acre real estate development project is an economic shot in the arm for the surrounding area, and Davis commended the effort, especially where few developers have gone before.

Full disclosure

Council member Rickenmann moved to televise meetings concerning zoning, planning, and design approval besides the city council meetings. Council agreed. The meetings will be carried on cable Channel 2.

Council adjourned around 10:20 am.

Next meeting

Council meets on Wednesday, July 19, at 9 am for its work session and at 10 am for its regular meeting. Both gatherings are on the third floor of City Hall, corner of Laurel and Main.