Mayor Steve Benjamin delivered his second State of the City address Wednesday evening at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.
COLUMBIA (WACH)-- Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin highlighted the city’s accomplishments and future challenges in his annual State of the City address Wednesday night.
Mayor Benjamin says the progress along Main Street is a big boost for the city. They mayor announced the city gained $1.1 billion in new capital investment throughout Metro Columbia, and that there are 9,000 jobs open right now in the area.
Mayor Benjamin also announced the city has run a budget surplus for the second straight year.
“The restoration of our reserve funds, our credit rating improved and a series of employee-led reforms will save city taxpayers a minimum of $647,000 over the next five years,” said Benjamin.
The struggling bus system is also a top priority for the mayor. As route cuts loom, Benjamin told the audience he will not give up on finding a permanent funding solution.
“I pledge to you tonight that, come what may, I will not let our bus system fail,” said Benjamin.
The mayor also announced giving a 2% cost of living increase to city employees is a priority, and that plans for developing the 165-acre Bull Street property are being finalized. The mayor calls the development the largest in Columbia history.
“By preserving our historic buildings, providing ample green space and laying out a mixed-use plan where people can live, work and play; I firmly believe that his project will be a crowing achievement for our city and a source of great pride and satisfaction for the people of Columbia.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forWACH