City controversy is a hot button issue for some residents in the Capital City. Up for discussion is everything from the city's finances, to the recent resignation of Councilman E.W. Cromartie earlier this week.
"It has brought some tarnish to the city council, so I guess they have some bridges to mend with the people," said Columbia native Broderick Smith.
Smith says despite the recent political blemishes, he hopes Columbia will soon recover.
"They've made some mistakes," said Smith. "We can be better people from them in just seeing the mistakes they've made. I think we can make Columbia a better place."
"It's going to take some time for voters and council members, and city governments, county governments and state governments to earn back some trust for voters," said political consultant Tige Watts.
He thinks the city can bounce back. Watts says residents demanding more government accountability, can make a difference.
"As more people make themselves aware of what's going on, it helps explains some things," said Watts.
Issues like how the city can attract more employers, is an important issue for some voters.
"What people do in their private time is their private time," said one Midlands resident. "But I think they should just bring more jobs and focus on the positive things people are doing."
"None of us are perfect," said Smith. "But when you're in the public eye, it's easy to make some missteps."
Broderick Smith just hopes the city will get on a more positive path, sooner than later.
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