Downtown Columbia’s McKinney building task force to hear public input today

The Columbia Mayor’s task force on the McKinney building in downtown Columbia holds its second meeting this  afternoon. The task force meets at 3:30 at Second Baptist Church downtown, and they’ve scheduled some time for public input.

Columbia city manager De’Carlon Seewood has said that residents have a variety of views on what to do with the historic building on East Broadway. Mr. Seewood has told 939 the Eagle that some want it to be a museum, while others envision a community center. Others want to see concerts and bands perform there.

The 15-member task force will make recommendations on the building’s future use. Columbia’s city council approved the $1.7 million purchase of the building in August. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe says the McKinney building has commemorated the social, educational, religious and civic life of Columbia’s African-American population for decades. It was built in 1918.