Update on Finlay Park Incident and Public Safety Measures | June 22, 2026

The City of Columbia held a meeting on June 22, 2026, to address the incident that occurred during the Juneteenth celebration at Finlay Park, which involved juvenile disturbances, fights, and the discovery of ammunition. City officials, including the City Manager, Police Chief, and Council members, discussed the law enforcement response, the implementation of an unaccompanied minors policy, and ongoing investigations into the participants. They emphasized the city's commitment to public safety, youth engagement programs, and the importance of community cooperation. While no specific procurement or contracting decisions were detailed, the discussion highlighted the need for adequate staffing and resources for park security and event management, including the hiring and training of officers dedicated to Finlay Park and considerations around event staffing costs.