City of Columbia public works director outlines department services and resources

Jeff Laware, public works director for the City of Columbia, outlined the department’s four divisions and core services, saying the street division maintains more than 240 miles of public roadways and the fleet maintenance team services nearly 400 pieces of city-owned equipment.

Laware said the department “consists of four divisions that provide essential services to our residents,” and that the street division handles stormwater management, sidewalk and curb repairs, pothole patching, and snow removal. He directly stated, “Our street division maintains more than 240 miles of public roadways.”

He described the sanitation division as providing residential and commercial garbage collection, curbside recycling, and yard waste pickup “to help keep Columbia clean and beautiful.” For traffic operations, Laware said the traffic division manages signalized intersections, roadway signage, and pavement striping to ensure safe and efficient travel.

On equipment support, Laware noted, “Our fleet maintenance division services and maintains nearly 400 pieces of city-owned equipment and vehicles, keeping all departments running smoothly.” He emphasized the department’s operational role, saying public works “plays a vital role in the day-to-day operations of our community” and that employees “remain on call 24/7 to ensure that essential services are always available when needed.”

For more information about the City of Columbia Public Works Department, Laware directed listeners to the city website and phone line: columbiatn.gov or 931-388-8650. The presentation was an informational overview; no motions, votes, or formal decisions were recorded in the transcript.