Local News

‘Ban the box’ ordinance could prohibit Columbia employers from asking about criminal history

COLUMBIA,SC (WOLO)- During Mayor Steve Benjamin’s state of the city speech Tuesday night he spoke a lot about compassion and second chances. Benjamin brought up a Ban the Box ordinance that will require city contractors to remove questions regarding criminal offenses from job applications city-wide. The mayor said the city of Columbia already implements ban the box tactics in its…

Mayor Steve Benjamin addresses Allen Benedict Court housing crisis

COLUMBIA,SC (WOLO)- Mayor Steve Benjamin addressed several issues for the city of Columbia Tuesday night, but the Allen Benedict court housing crisis was front and center. “The tragic deaths of Mr. Calvin Witherspoon, Jr. & Mr. Derrick Caldwell Roper only underscore the urgency and creativity with which we should be working together to pursue more public sector & private sector…

Teachers take over the State House

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Teachers from all over the state came to Columbia to find their teacher voices and put them into action. “They have been very receptive to listen to the teachers, and for many teachers, it’s the first time they’re using their teacher-voice. So, they’re getting empowered too,” Kathy Maness said, exec. dir. for the Palmetto State Teachers Association.  Education reform…