Weather Sends Workers Home

The City of Columbia is sending home non-essential workers at noon due to the severe winter weather conditions. This does not include police or fire departments, but the decision will likely affect local businesses.”Essential operations are those that must continue to assure the public safety and general welfare of citizens,” said City Manager Mike Matthes.In response to the road conditions, Columbia Transit switched to its emergency weather schedule. This route departs from the Wabash Station on the hour and from designated stops on the half hour. Columbia Transit suggests passengers factor extra time into their commute due to the snowy conditions. Workers sent home early should pay close attention to the updated schedule.For those caught in the snow or waiting for their scheduled bus, Columbia has opened locations for those seeking warmth. There are nine separate locations open throughout the day for those seeking shelter from the harsh conditions.”City customers are asked to refrain from travceling to city facilities,” said Renee Graham, Public Communications Officer in a press release. The Columbia Trash Collection Service still plans on running their routes as scheduled. Residents may see delays due to the raod conditions, but all locations should expect trash collection as planned. Tonight’s Planning and Zoning meeting has been rescheduled for March 7. Other meeting cancellations include Parks and Recreation Commission, Board of Health and the Public Transportation Advisory Board.