Rusty DePass tells it like it is. In a talk to the Columbia Torch Club June 10, Rusty DePass stated, "The second worst mayor in the U.S. is Bob Coble. Ray Nagin of New Orleans is number one." This was in reference to the state of commercial real estate in Columbia in which the mayor and council have watched as a number of large corporations, lead by SCANA, have left downtown.

DePass, commercial real estate agent, said the problem began in the 1980s with the exodus of government agencies to the suburbs. Efforts to heal the problem led to zoning regulations that eliminated parking restrictions in some categories and increased restrictions in other categories. The result was another rush to the suburbs by retail businesses. Then, the "smart growth" fad allowed big houses on tiny lots, such as Governor's Hill.

All the while, Columbia's City Council refused to consider Temple Ligon's Bridge over the Congaree and pushed, instead, for a city- owned airline, a city- owned hotel, and a city- owned convention center - three financial flops. DePass said he is encouraged by the university's Innovista project, but Mayor Bob and the City Council have shown no vision, no growth plan, and no concern for private business.

The Torch Club meets monthly for a fine dinner and an envigorating talk. For information, contact Ed Latimer at 803-776- 4765.