Mayor Benjamin, in committing to making the city a safer place to live and visit, will increase the number of police officers in Five Points and surrounding areas. We can only hope that these officers will be as serious about catching violent criminals as they are about ticketing underage drinkers. If they are, we will have one of the safest cities in the country for sure.
The Mayor has also committed to improving the city's transportation system while creating a "powerhouse business and entertainment district" that connects Main Street, USC, Five Points and the Vista.
As it attempts to recruit and retain the best and brightest students, businesses and professionals, the city cannot afford to simply maintain the status quo. If Columbia is to be the envy of cities across the state and nation it must move forward with the Mayor's plans to make this city one that we can all be proud to call home.
So, Mr. Mayor, we have heard your Address. We applaud your efforts. We anxiously wait for the results.