Council discussed Amendment 4, which would allow some properties to seek licensing despite zoning restrictions if owners meet ownership or use-date criteria, and directed staff to draft refined language including proposed cure periods, documentation requirements, and effective dates (staff said the ordinance would not take effect until Oct. 7).

Council adopted a perfected Amendment 1 that bars visitors beyond a unit's permitted occupancy between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. and tightened the definition of "visitor" to avoid enforcement ambiguity; staff said occupancy limits will be set from each unit's registration.

City Council unanimously adopted a revised short-term rental ordinance (Amendment 4), retained a short-term rental definition of fewer than 30 consecutive days, and directed staff to pursue enforcement and reporting; an owner-occupied exception (Amendment 5) was tabled for later review.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden detailed a riverfront redevelopment to West Columbia council, including an elevated boardwalk, new animal facilities and a riverfront restaurant. Presenters projected roughly $175 million in annual economic impact and up to 500 jobs, with construction activity visible by 2028 and public opening targeted around 2029.

Council unanimously adopted a resolution to adopt the Safe Streets for All safety action plan and established a long-term goal of eliminating roadway fatalities and serious injuries in West Columbia; staff will pursue grant funding and coordinate next steps.

AECOM project manager Ryan Eckenrode presented West Columbia’s Safe Streets for All plan, focusing on 10 priority intersections, 10 corridors, near-term demonstration projects (~$100,000), and a county-led FHWA grant application; council members pressed on local signal timing, congestion and outreach.

The council unanimously approved AOS Specialty Contractors as the lowest responsive bidder for the Meeting Street improvement project at $4,488,212.50; staff said construction in the right-of-way is contingent on a final DOT encroachment permit.

Council voted unanimously to adjourn into executive session to receive legal advice regarding a PFAS class-action lawsuit pursuant to South Carolina Code Annotated section 30-4-78-2.