City Board Considers Controversial Liquor Store Proposal

The City of Columbia Board of Zoning Appeals convened on August 1st, 2024, under the leadership of Vice Chair Kathryn Fenner, who presided over the meeting in the absence of Chair Jonathan Vang. The board, which includes members Celia McIntosh, Davis Whittle, and Sherrod Duvall, was supported by staff members Hope Hasty, the zoning administrator, Bridal Haiyan, the deputy zoning administrator, and new land use coordinator Madeline Bowden.

The meeting began with procedural announcements, emphasizing the importance of sworn testimony and the structured format for public participation. Applicants were allotted ten minutes for presentations, with additional time for public comments and rebuttals.

The board swiftly moved through the consent agenda, approving the minutes from the previous meeting and a variance request concerning a residential lot at 202510 Cypress Street, which sought to reduce the side yard setback. No objections were raised, and the motion passed unanimously.

The primary item on the regular agenda was a special exception request for a liquor store at 2000 Green Street, Unit B, in the Central Area Commercial (CAC) district. This case was a repeat of a request made over a year ago. Attorney Kat Scolacci, representing applicant James Bigby, presented the case, seeking to establish the retail liquor store in the designated zoning area.

The meeting highlighted the board's ongoing commitment to reviewing zoning applications and ensuring compliance with local regulations, as they navigate community needs and business interests. Further discussions on the liquor store proposal are anticipated as the board continues its deliberations.