The Issues
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August 24, 2011
My Plans for 2012
I write you regarding my decision not to seek reelection as a member of Columbia City Council upon the completion of my term ending June 30, 2012. In my three years as a member of Council, I have worked to make Columbia a safe, beautiful and vibrant place to live. We have certainly faced our challenges over the last several years, but I feel good about where our City is and where we are heading in the future. As many of you are aware, my family situation has changed significantly since I ... -
March 10, 2011
Spring 2011 Update
The past few months have been a busy period in the life of our City. Council has been focused on a host of important issues ranging from public safety to public transit. Let me take this opportunity to bring you up to date and to invite your input. -
July 12, 2010
Summer 2010 Update
Over the last several months we have seen much that that saddens and disappoints us as well as events which have been inspiring and hopeful. I sense, however, that just like these dog days of summer will evolve into a beautiful and crisp fall, our better days as a city are ahead of us. -
February 2, 2010
2010 Update
I hope that 2010 has gotten off to a great start for you. It has been a busy one in our City government, and I am writing to bring you up to date on several matters. -
November 3, 2009
Municipal Finance and Budget Concerns
I am writing to bring several matters to your attention and to update you on my activities as your City Councilwoman. -
July 23, 2009
Alert: Increase in Residential Crime
I am writing to alert you to an increase in residential crime, especially in the Heathwood and Rosewood areas of District 3. -
June 29, 2009
An Eventful First Year on City Council
A year ago today I was preparing to assume my seat on Columbia City Council. It has indeed been a year of dramatic changes in our nation, state, and city. We have experienced traumatic economic shocks that have shattered the dreams of millions, witnessed an historic national moment with the election of our dynamic new President, and have seen our state now hold the dubious distinction of having the 3rd highest unemployment rate in the country. -
April 22, 2009
April Update from Your City Councilwoman
In the spring of 1936, in the midst of the Great Depression, Columbians paused from their routine activities for a joyous celebration of the city's 150th birthday, its Sesquicentennial. During a spectacular week of events local residents enjoyed various parades, parties, pageants, concerts, and a dramatic theatrical production, with a cast of almost a thousand, that showcased the city's unique history and development. -
February 3, 2009
An Update on City Issues
The challenges of financial reporting that have plagued our city for the last few years have been at center stage over the last weeks and months. As many of you are aware, our city has been unable to produce monthly financial reports since 2005... -
January 6, 2009
2009: A Year Of Challenges and Opportunities
Without question 2009 presents unprecedented challenges for Columbia. Please know that in this uncertain financial climate, I am ever mindful of the dramatic impact of the declining economy on the residents, local businesses, and every facet of life in our city. I know that we will weather this storm, confront our challenges, and create dynamic opportunities that will enable Columbia to reach her full potential as one of this country's great cities. -
December 3, 2008
Great Neighborhoods Define Great Cities
Great neighborhoods, a defining characteristic of all vibrant and prospering cities, do not happen by accident. They are the result of conscious, ongoing activities by residents and city officials to create quality residential experiences. -
October 21, 2008
An Update From Your City Councilwoman
I have heard from many of you over the past several weeks about public safety and homelessness. Let me take this opportunity to bring you up-to-date on these and other issues. -
August 4, 2008
A Communication From Your City Councilwoman...
I have previously communicated with you in a variety of capacities--as a prospective candidate for City Council, as an active candidate for the District 3 Council position and as your councilwoman-elect. It is my distinctive honor now to communicate with you as your City Councilwoman. -
June 30, 2008
Where Belinda Stands
During the campaign, I said that Columbia must be a city of "Choice, not Chance." We must, as a city, have the courage and political will to address the tough issues. We must recognize that at times the right decision may not be the most popular one. Now that I assume my role as a member of City Council, I pledge that I will continue the dialog with you on the issues we discussed in the campaign. In the coming month I will outline for you more specific ideas in each of these areas, and ... -
June 27, 2008
Improving Safety in Our Capital City
Public safety is the fundamental responsibility of local government. As your City Council representative, strengthening the Columbia Police Department is my top priority. -
June 26, 2008
The city Columbia can become!
What kind of 21st century city will our Columbia become? This is one of the central questions I raised during our recent campaign.