COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) — Columbia City Manager Teresa Wilson has responded to criticism surrounding new safety measures and a clear bag policy announced ahead of Finlay Park’s $24 million grand reopening.
The downtown park is scheduled to reopen the weekend of Nov. 15–16, featuring new amenities and security protocols. Among them is a clear bag policy, which city officials say will remain in place to enhance public safety.
On Monday, Wilson announced several exemptions to the rule, clarifying that certain small bags will now be permitted even if they are not transparent.
The following bags are exempt from the clear bag requirement:
- Wristlets no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
- Small clutch or crossbody purses no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
- Diaper or medical bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
Bags that must remain clear include:
- Clear totes no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- Clear backpacks no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- One-gallon plastic freezer bags
- Clear fanny packs no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
The city’s decision has sparked debate among residents, with some arguing it’s a public space and the policy puts the homeless in the city at a major disadvantage…