Providence Inn and Suites closes doors

A Columbia motel closed Thursday, following a statement by management at the beginning of April stating the motel could not compete within the budget section of the motel market.

The news release said a large amount of money was invested in the motel, but it still was not enough to bring it up to par with similarly priced motels in the area.

ABC 17 News reported Wednesday that the owner of Providence Inn and Suites, Keith Owens, was charged with operating the motel without a license.

The Columbia Daily Tribune reported Wednesday that the Boone County Department of Public Health has tentatively scheduled an inspection of the motel this Friday.

The newspaper also reported that the local branch of “Love in the Name of Christ” went door-to-door at the motel this week handing out pamphlets to tenants with information on inexpensive apartments, extended stay motels, and shelters in the area.

Management announced the closure of the motel just days after a homicide involving a 16-year-old girl inside the motel.