2024 in COMO: Tackling Challenges, Laying Groundwork for the Future  

As 2024 draws to a close, we can proudly reflect on the progress we’ve made in Columbia. This year was marked by bold initiatives, strategic investments, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of our residents. Together, we’ve tackled significant challenges and laid the groundwork for a brighter future. Here are some key highlights of what we’ve accomplished.   

In March, we rolled out automated roll carts for trash collection and resumed curbside recycling, which had been on pause due to staffing shortages. These changes have increased efficiency and protected the health and safety of our sanitation workers, while also reaffirming our commitment to keeping our environment clean and sustainable.   

We also began critical upgrades to our water treatment plant to ensure that our growing city continues to have access to safe, high-quality drinking water. These improvements will enhance the facility’s capacity and reliability, preparing us to meet future demands.   

Voters showed overwhelming support for the capital improvement sales tax, enabling us to make significant infrastructure investments. With historic federal funding, we’ve expanded our fleet with new electric buses and bolstered our electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, both key steps in advancing our climate action goals. These efforts will help reduce emissions and support a more sustainable transportation network for Columbia.   

The final allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds has also allowed us to invest in projects that improve the quality of life for our community, from infrastructure to social services. These funds have been crucial in addressing needs that arose during the pandemic and continue to shape our city’s recovery.   

Addressing housing needs has been a priority this year, with the creation of the Housing and Neighborhood Services Department. This department, alongside our planning staff, has already adjusted our zoning code to allow for more infill housing and will be overseeing the new million-dollar housing trust fund that will go to the creation of more housing units. We also co-hosted a housing summit with Boone County, bringing together leaders and stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions for housing affordability and homelessness. The summit served as a platform for developing a comprehensive strategy that reflects our community’s needs and priorities.   

Public safety has seen notable advancements, too. We introduced a new Homeless Outreach Team to provide targeted support to vulnerable populations, and we’ve made significant investments in our police department, including a step pay plan and new recruitment strategies. The establishment of our own police academy will help ensure that we attract and train officers who are committed to serving Columbia with integrity and excellence.   

None of these achievements would have been possible without the dedication of our city employees. This year, we doubled down on investing in our workforce through initiatives such as compression pay adjustments, insurance absorption, paid family leave, and tuition reimbursement. These efforts help us attract and retain top talent while ensuring our staff feel valued and supported in their roles.   

The progress we’ve made in 2024 is a testament to the tremendous support from our community and the strength of our partnerships. The collaborative efforts of residents, local organizations, and city leaders have been instrumental in turning our shared vision into reality. Your continued engagement and commitment make Columbia a place where big ideas come to life, and for that, I am deeply grateful.   

As we prepare for 2025, there is much more work ahead, but I’m confident that we will continue to grow stronger together. Thank you for your trust and support. Let’s carry this momentum forward into the new year and keep building a Columbia that we’re all proud to call home. Wishing you and your families a joyful holiday season and a prosperous 2025. 

Photo caption:  

Mayor with Corrine Smith, manager of Columbia Farmers Market. Photo provided by the city of Columbia