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COLUMBUS—On Wednesday, October 2, at 11 a.m., the Columbus Town Council held an emergency meeting to discuss water and sewer infrastructure, postponing automatic payments for water bills and an upcoming shipment of supplies. 

The meeting was attended by approximately a dozen local citizens and commenced with a discussion about the current state of the water and sewer systems in the Town of Columbus. Town Manager Tim Barth and Mayor Pat McCool stated that despite significant pressure, the systems performed remarkably well and are now back to normal.

The council also decided to postpone automatic payments for water and sewer bills from October 5 to October 10. This change only applies to individuals using automatic payments.

The council then addressed the incoming supplies, Meals Ready to Eat (MREs), and water that are expected to arrive, with a major portion designated for the more severely affected areas of Sunny View and Saluda. 

Additionally, Columbus Police Chief Scott Hamby reminded attendees to contact the police or sheriff’s office with any concerns about missing persons in the area, and they will follow up and check on them.

The council also discussed the process for applying for disaster assistance from FEMA, which can be done by phone or through www.disasterassistance.gov. Those considering filing for assistance were advised to take plenty of pictures of damage from Tropical Storm Helene.