A couple of employees were given new positions at last week’s normally scheduled council meeting for the City of West Columbia. Jamie Hook is the director of fleet services and Tim Pecori is the code enforcement officer. Pecori’s position is a new one.
Additionally, two West Columbians were recognized for their hard work. David Goff was recognized as Lexington School District 2’s Teacher of the Year and West Columbia Police Department’s Cpl. Annie DiNovo was recognized for her service.
In other news, the city reviewed its goals and priorities for the fiscal year 2023-24 as reported by City Administrator Brian Carter. The city reviewed what’s been accomplished as well as what has yet to be finished.
Among the items are beautification along 12th Street and Jarvis Klapman Boulevard, parks and recreation updates, the pedestrian bridge update, Triangle City’s fountain and a Safe Streets grant plan.
Beautification updates along 12th Street and Jarvis Klapman Boulevard include a turning lane and traffic light to be installed at Henbet Drive. 
In parks and recreation news, Carraway Park has some replacements and updates that have been overdue and the city plans to identify and improve current parks and possible new parks. The interactive art park has some new or refinished artwork and a temporary mosaic tree is coming for the Christmas season. 
B Avenue’s ball park, Butler Park and Reeves park all have facilities the city plans to work on.
It was noted that the city received the Safe Streets for All grant, which will provide a safety action plan. The grant was announced in December 2023, which is still in use.
Saluda River’s pedestrian bridge is wrapping up and moving towards permitting. The bridge will be more ADA-friendly.
The Triangle City fountain has plans to be completely refurbished by the end of the year with new signage and landscaping and the Triangle City sign at the corner of Charleston Highway now greets people coming into the city.
There continue to be improvements and beautification efforts along 12th Street and Augusta Road.