Columbia Standard

Columbia's newly elected officials were sworn in during the city's inauguration exercises Jan 4.

Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann and City Councilors Joe E. Taylor, Jr., Tina N. Herbert and Dr. Aditi Bussells took their respective oath of office during an outdoor ceremony in the 1700 Block of Main Street.

"We are open in the City of Columbia," Rickenmann said in a city press release touting the event that saw him become city's 45th mayor after winning a mid-November runoff over Tameika Isaac Devine. "On January 4, our swearing-in celebration will mark the start of a new day in the City of Columbia’s history. ... This occasion will mark a new beginning in Columbia, a city that is proud of the strength, ingenuity and diversity of our community, while also being positioned and open for new opportunities."

In his inauguration address, Rickenmann drew on his experience serving on the City Council and how it helped prepare him for the role as mayor.

"Before I was even sworn in, I went to work in every department of our city government. I wanted to learn about the departments, their processes and see what could be improved. I’ve been on a ride-along and I’ve driven a garbage truck. I’ve been down a manhole and I’ve looked over the books in accounting," he said.

In drawing on his business background, Rickenmann said Columbia is open for business and ready to serve.

"We’ll make it easier to start a business here and invest in our great city and its people," he said. "We’ll work towards reducing taxes and fees that close the gap between surviving and thriving. It shouldn’t take millions of dollars to take advantage of an opportunity in our city, it should only take determination and effort."