COLUMBIA, 5/16/13 (Beat Byte) -- An eminent domain threat that has loomed large in the debate about how to widen Providence Road has been left out of a public hearing notice that provides otherwise complete details about three road-improvement options.

The notice also lists the options out of numerical order, with the most controversial first , the previously rescinded Option IX. The moves remind of other subtle -- and not-so-subtle -- senior city administrator attempts to manipulate the hearing process .

Against opposition from Columbia public works director John Glascock and a group of Grasslands residents, Columbia City Council members on April 15 rescinded Option IX -- a two-phase, nearly $7 million road-widening project that includes demolition of eight his...

Renters have no say when or how their homes are searched

COLUMBIA, 5/14/13 (Beat Byte) -- A notarized application for a so-called "rental occupancy permit" under Columbia city ordinance demands landlords sign away not only their Constitutional right to protection from unwarranted search, but their tenants' right as well.  

 

"In consideration of the above Certificate of Compliance... applicant hereby agrees to permit the Director of Community Development to enter upon and inspect the premises... at any reasonable time ," the application reads.  The director and his/her inspectors may then determine compliance with seven different city ordinances that cover everything from fire safety to zoning.

 

The 4th Amendment waiver is part of Columbia city ordinance 22-186, the Rental Unit Conservation Law (RUCL) ....