Group Wants Strong Mayor Vote Delayed

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Just outside of a scheduled City Council work session, Tuesday afternoon the group ‘Communities for a Great Columbia,’ gathered to have their voices heard. Group members say they were hoping to persuade Columbia City Council members to delay the Strong Mayor Referendum vote this week. 

Tomorrow, council members are expected to vote on whether the Strong Mayor Referendum should go on a ballot for Columbia voters to decide on during the general municipal election to be held November 5, 2013.

The proposed referendum has had a roller-coaster life, so to speak, so far.

First, in July the idea of putting the referendum on the November ballot was shot down by council members.

Then last week, an about face and the measure passed council, bringing the second and final vote needed tomorrow. 

Also last week, the group ‘Let Columbia Vote,’ delivered four boxes full of signed petitions in support of letting voters decide their form of government, to City Hall. 

One of those petitions, had Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin’s signature. 

But, those against the referendum say, the six weeks that have passed is not enough time to work out the details.