Water main breaks have forced crews to dig up streets across the city and now a plan to patch the damaged pavement is being discussed by city leaders.
The Columbia Board of Aldermen approved $140,000 in repairs during its Aug. 1 meeting.
Board members had earlier submitted a list of areas they wanted to see repaired across the city. Many of the repairs stemmed from crews having to dig up pavement for water and sewer repairs, but some did not.
“I looked at the original list the aldermen wanted and came up with these figures,” City Engineer Sean Burns said Aug. 1. “Water and sewer repairs are estimated at $78,000 and other street repairs at $77,000 for a total of $155,000. With engineering fees and other fees, that total would be around $182,000.”
Water Supervisor Michael McDaniel said the Water Department had $100,000 allocated in this year’s budget for repairs. Mayor Justin McKenzie added that the Street Department had approximately $40,000 in the budget for repairs.
Ward 4 Alderman Mike Smith then made a motion to spend $140,000 on the repairs. Burns will analyze the locations and the Board will discuss locations and bid the project at a future meeting.
In other action, the Board granted a variance to Korey Miller, who lives on Meadowood Drive to construct a structure on an existing slab. The existing location did not meet new setback rules, thus the Board of Adjustment had to make a recommendation and the Board had to approve the site work. The Board voted unanimously to approve the variance after a motion by Alderman-at-Large Edward Hough.
The Board also discussed a dilapidated property at 433 Lafayette Street.
“It’s a red-and-white home,” Building Inspector Lonnie Stringer said. “It’s been roped off and has no power and no water. We’ve received complaints from neighbors that want something done about it.”
Stringer researched the property and found out that gas service had been cut off in June 2010. Water had been shut off in April 2015 and electricity was shut off on Aug. 31, 2016.
“The neighbors have been complaining about rats and snakes,” Stringer said.
Ward 3 Alderwoman Anna Evans made a motion to send a letter for a demolition hearing for the home. The hearing is slated to take place during the Sept. 5 meeting. The Board unanimously approved the motion.
The Board also learned that a new buyer has been found for a property located at 801 Church St.
The Board in a previous meeting had voted to have the structure demolished, however, new owners have assured the Board that they can repair and restore the home, according to Mayor McKenzie.
The Board also met in executive session to discuss personnel issues. No action was taken.
The next meeting of the Columbia Board of Alderman is set for 4 p.m. on Aug. 15 at City Hall.
