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2 months ago

Redevelopment officials propose reissuing jail-site RFP, hire Veritas Group for developer outreach Officials at the redevelopment meeting proposed canceling and reissuing the request for proposals for the former jail site, hiring Veritas Group to lead statewide developer outreach and negotiating to quitclaim the property to the redevelopment commission; no formal vote was recorded.

Columbia City is revamping its approach to the former jail site, planning to reissue the RFP and engage Veritas Group for broader developer outreach to enhance downtown's future.

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3 months ago

Consultant Proposes Three‑Year Utility Rate Plan to Restore Reserves; Council Asked to Direct Draft Ordinance Baker Tilly recommended a three‑phase utility rate plan (2026–28) averaging 3.51% per year (about $10/month for an average customer) to fund roughly $13.6 million in capital needs and meet bond reserve requirements; council was asked whether to direct staff to draft an implementing ordinance.

Columbia City is considering a three-year utility rate increase plan that could mean an extra $10 a month for households—will the council take action to implement these vital improvements?

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5 months ago

Council confirms regional appointments, reappoints arts and redevelopment members Council approved Resolution 2025-23 to confirm five private‑sector appointees to the Northeast Indiana Regional Development Authority, reappointed an Arts Commission member (motion recorded), and noted redevelopment commission appointments effective Jan. 1; votes were unanimous.

Columbia City’s council unanimously confirmed key appointments to boost regional development and arts initiatives—what changes are on the horizon?

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6 months ago

Columbia City Council Reviews New Job Descriptions for Parks Department Positions Council approves updated job descriptions to enhance parks management and recreation programming.

Columbia City is revamping its infrastructure while empowering local youth with a new lineman training program—big changes are on the horizon!

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6 months ago

Council Reviews 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Plan for Streets and Parks Council discusses funding allocations for streets, parks, and sidewalks through 2030.

Columbia City's Common Council is setting the stage for transformative improvements, including $100,000 for sidewalks and major park enhancements in the next five years!

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6 months ago

Columbia City Council Considers Income Tax Changes Amid Economic Revenue Challenges Council discusses potential income tax for residents after state changes on tax revenue distribution.

Columbia City Council is facing tough decisions about a local income tax that could impact residents' wallets amid looming economic challenges.

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8 months ago

City Council Approves Early Payment of 2006 Water Bonds to Boost Operating Fund Council unanimously votes to pay off 2006 water bonds early, enhancing general operating funds.

Columbia City leaders just made a bold financial move by approving the early payoff of 2006 water bonds, setting the stage for enhanced community investments!

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8 months ago

City Council Approves Early Payoff of $2006 Water Bond Saving $198,000 City clears $2006 water bond payoff, saving $198,000 for the water department.

Columbia City is set to save a whopping $198,000 after the council approved an early payoff of a 2006 water bond, paving the way for a brighter financial future!

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8 months ago

Eagle Park project nearing completion as police department moves forward with hiring Eagle Park is 95% complete, while police department tests 28 applicants for open positions.

Eagle Park is just a step away from completion, while the police department gears up to welcome new recruits, signaling a bright future for Columbia City!

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8 months ago

City Plans Hydrant Flushing to Address Water Discoloration Next Week City will flush hydrants next week to improve water quality after recent discoloration.

Columbia City is set to flush hydrants next week to tackle water discoloration and enhance your drinking experience!

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8 months ago

Columbia City leaders address budget cuts and new software transitions City officials discuss budget reduction needs and upcoming software changes for public safety.

Columbia City is gearing up for major changes, from new recording software to a partnership that will support local food banks—find out how these developments will shape the community's future!

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8 months ago

Art Commission Launches Studio Art Tour and First Friday Events Upcoming art events provide local artists opportunities to showcase their work to the community.

Columbia City is gearing up for a vibrant Art Commission Studio Art Tour and a First Friday event that will spotlight local talent and enhance community engagement!

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8 months ago

City Council Considers Sewer Relief for Geothermal System Repairs Delay Council assesses adjustment of sewer fees due to geothermal repair water usage.

Columbia City's Board of Works meeting revealed a shocking $15,800 sewer bill as a local facility grapples with geothermal system repairs, raising questions about municipal support for struggling businesses.

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8 months ago

Columbia City Council Approves Three-Year Tax Abatement for DOT America Council unanimously supports personal property tax abatement to bolster local employment and investment.

Columbia City Council takes bold steps to enhance traffic safety and boost local jobs with a unanimous tax abatement for DOT America!

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8 months ago

Mayor Addresses Sidewalk Concerns and Trail Updates at City Council Meeting City officials discuss pedestrian island, trails, and police department recruitment efforts.

Columbia City Council is making significant progress in community development, from new pedestrian islands to exciting local events, all while enhancing public safety and infrastructure.

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8 months ago

Columbia City Council Approves New Policies for Public Safety and Employee Benefits Council unanimously adopts policies on harassment, retirement, holidays, and bereavement leave.

Columbia City Council just approved major changes to boost local businesses and enhance community safety—find out what this means for you!

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9 months ago

City prepares for Westgate Phase 3 funding and community engagement events City plans Westgate Phase 3 funding application and employee appreciation luncheon next week.

Columbia City is gearing up for exciting developments, including the pivotal Westgate Phase 3 and a special luncheon to celebrate city employees, despite facing financial challenges!

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9 months ago

Public art opportunity scheduled for September featuring local artists Artists invited to participate in September's public art event and studio tour.

Columbia City is set to come alive this September with an exciting public art opportunity that invites local artists to showcase their talents and engage with the community!

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9 months ago

Columbia City Arts Commission announces open calls for local artists and community projects Arts Commission invites participation in upcoming art projects and exhibitions in Columbia City

Columbia City is buzzing with creativity as local artists are invited to showcase their talent and engage in exciting community projects!

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9 months ago

Council approves car-only parking ordinance to enhance visibility and safety Council moves forward with ordinance to limit parking to cars only for safety purposes

Columbia City's Common Council just took a major step to improve safety at a dangerous intersection by approving a new ordinance that restricts parking to cars only.

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9 months ago

Board of Works approves new outdoor seating permit for local restaurants Restaurants must comply with outdoor seating permit rules effective July 1.

Columbia City is taking a giant leap toward inclusivity by requiring all restaurants to secure outdoor seating permits that ensure wheelchair access starting July 1!

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9 months ago

Columbia City Council approves outdoor seating permit and employee pay ordinance Council approves temporary outdoor seating permit and reviews employee pay ordinance.

Columbia City Council just approved a crucial outdoor seating permit to help local restaurants thrive while ensuring safety and accessibility for all!

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9 months ago

Columbia City Arts Commission launches second annual Spark art camp for local youth Arts camp funded by Indiana Arts Commission offers music, dance, and fine arts for children.

Columbia City is buzzing with exciting initiatives, from new ADA ramps to the launch of the Spark art camp, empowering local youth through the arts!

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9 months ago

Old Settlers Day celebration successfully wraps up with new fireworks plans Old Settlers Day concluded successfully, featuring a parade and plans for expanded fireworks.

Columbia City's Common Council meeting buzzed with excitement as plans for a "bigger and better" Fourth of July fireworks show took center stage, following the successful Old Settlers Day parade!

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9 months ago

Columbia City Council approves updated solicitation ordinance for resident safety Council enacts regulations requiring permits and identification for door-to-door solicitors.

Columbia City Council takes bold steps to enhance community safety by approving new regulations for door-to-door solicitors and disaster support.

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10 months ago

City Council standardizes restaurant application process for outdoor permits Council approves yearly outdoor permit process for downtown restaurants to ensure compliance.

Columbia City is reshaping outdoor dining with a new standardized permit process aimed at ensuring safety and fairness for all downtown restaurants!

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10 months ago

City Council evaluates flat budget and prepares for Old Settlers event logistics Council discusses budget constraints and Old Settlers event preparations amid uncertain revenue.

Columbia City faces a potential $1.2 million revenue shortfall as leaders prepare a cautious budget while gearing up for the beloved Old Settlers Festival.

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10 months ago

Columbia City Council advances plans for Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area and infrastructure improvements Council discusses outdoor refreshment area, ongoing infrastructure projects, and city employee transitions.

Columbia City is transforming its landscape with underground power lines and a new outdoor refreshment area that promises to elevate local culture and community spirit!

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10 months ago

Columbia City Council approves mutual aid ordinance for electric utility support Council unanimously approves ordinance to standardize rates for mutual aid during emergencies.

Columbia City is taking bold steps to boost local businesses and streamline emergency support with two groundbreaking ordinances!

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10 months ago

City plans downtown outdoor recreational area to boost local businesses Community engagement efforts advance Downtown Outdoor Recreational Area despite restaurant pushback.

Columbia City is on the brink of transforming its downtown with a new Outdoor Recreational Area that promises to enhance local vibrancy, but local restaurants are raising concerns about the potential impact on their sales.

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