The Columbia City Council met in their regular monthly meeting on Monday (November 3, 2025) at City Hall with several items discussed.
The City authorized the surplus of a fire truck; and, an authorization to advertise for bids.
They approved four (4) of the Reserved for Veterans Parking signs, which will be placed in areas of the city limits. Paul Smith, who is with the local VFW, was in attendance for the meeting.
They opened bids for the renovation and updating of restroom facilities at City Hall. The bid was awarded to Jason Collins of Columbia.
The city council entered into executive session per KRS 61.810(1)(g) for the discussion between a public agency and a representative of a business entity and discussions concerned a specific proposal if open discussions would jeopardize the siting, retention, expansion, or upgrading of the business. No action was taken in executive session.
The City Council gave approval to apply for a Community Development Block Grant for the purpose of economic development; as well to make application for economic development funding for gas line upgrades.
They voted to apply for G.R.A.N.T. funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission gas project that is being considered for Lindsey Wilson University expansion and will replace lines in those areas. A resolution was also passed relative to the same project.
The Mayor reported that the city had received documentation on their FEMA project #4875; and, noted funding that had been obligated. She complimented Trey Stephens for his work on this project.
The Council voted to proceed with application for a C.O.P.S. grant. (Community Oriented Policing Services). They will be working on an opportunity for a University Resource Officer as a partnership with Lindsey Wilson University.
They approved to make application for the Flood Control Grant through the Department of Local Government if applicable to the project the city is working on in reference to Watson Street/Rice Drive.
The city received a letter from Adair County Judge Executive Larry Russell Bryant requesting that the city contribute half of the costs of the repair work to the fountain in front of the Judicial Center. The council decided not to contribute.
The public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant for the Synergy Project to close it out was held prior to the meeting.
The Mayor announced that she had received notification that the Kentucky League of Cities Liability Grant had been approved. This is for equipment for the police department and the gas department.
The city voted to proceed with an annexation request from Ben Arnold. This is for property located at the end of Country Club Road. The property is contiguous to city gas utility infrastructure. He plans on future development of a nature walk along creek and ponds, possible arboretum, an upscale community to serve housing needs, and a possible restaurant.
(Mayor Pamela Hoots – City of Columbia)