A public hearing took place ahead of last Tuesday’s meeting of the Columbia City Council, giving Columbia residents and other interested parties the opportunity to speak out or have questions answered about the annexation of two parcels of property to Joe Koppeis, who has announced plans to develop a large office and residential complex on land at the north end of Columbia near North Main Street and Route 3.

The only person to speak up was Columbia Fire Chief Mike Roediger, who asked to be involved in the planning progress to ensure his department has the equipment and ability to protect the multi-story structures being designed.

“We want to make sure we’ve got you covered,” he told Koppeis, who agreed with the request.

The proposed development is in the early stages of planning and financing.

No specific design or site plans have been released or approved by the city council at this point.

During the regular meeting, the council approved ordinances authorizing the execution of an annexation agreement between the city and both Columbia Land Management LLC and Joe and Patricia Koppeis on the nearly 22 acres of land to be developed.