"We love Columbia because of the superb medical facilities, cultural activities, the beauty of the four seasons and the genuine friendliness of the people."Gary & Sharon Duncan, Frameworks Gifts & Interiors
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Utilities
As a full-service city, Columbia owns its own electric, water, sewer, refuse-collection and storm-water management utilities.
Electricty
About 40% of the city's electricity is generated at the coal burning municipal power plant. Columbia has two providers of electricity dependent upon the location of your residence. If your area is served by the Columbia Water & Light Department, make application at the Finance Department at the City Hall Annex, 725 East Broadway, 573-874-7380. If your area is served by the Boone Electric Cooperative, make application at the Boone Electric building, 1413 Rangeline Road, 573-449-4181.
Water
The city's deep wells and Columbia's water treatment plant are 8 miles south in the Missouri River bottom. Columbia's water providers are the Columbia Water & Light Department and the public water districts. If your area is served by a public water district, your real estate agent or landlord can tell you which district to contact. The Water and Light Department also provides free information on programs such as light and water conservation, xeriscaping, energy audits and weatherization loans.
Natural Gas
Columbia area natural gas service is provided by AmerenUE. Make application by telephone: 1-800-552-7583.
Telephone
CenturyTel provides the telephone service in the Columbia area and is located at 625 East Cherry. Their hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. To arrange for installation call the CenturyTel Business Office, 1-800-201-4099. For telephone repair, call 1-800-824-2877. Additional Columbia phone books are available at the CenturyTel office or the Chamber of Commerce.
Trash Collection
Curbside trash pick-up is provided for residents once a week by the City of Columbia Public Works Department Call 573-874-6291 to find out which day trash is picked up in your neighborhood. Yard waste must be collected separately on the same day as your other refuse. Trash collection billing is done through your water and electric account with the City. Your fee includes plastic refuse bags that are delivered to you every three months.
Recycling
Columbia's recycling program, called the "Blue Bag Program," enables residents to have recycled items picked up with their regular trash collection once a week. The program is currently active within city limits. For more information about the Blue Bag Program, call the City of Columbia Public Works Solid Waste Division at 573-874-6291.
