Columbia City Council Approves New Hot Dog Vendor
The city council unanimously authorized a new vendor to operate on Main Street.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in City Hall
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The Columbia City Council voted unanimously to permit a new hot dog vendor, Red's Dogs, to begin operations on Main Street. The business is owned by Deandraya Waddell and holds an A-grade food safety rating.
Why it matters
This approval expands local street food options in the downtown area by introducing an affordable dining choice for residents and visitors. The vendor will provide accessible meals near the Richland County Courthouse.
The legislative approval confirms the permit for Red's Dogs, which serves a menu priced at $5 or less. The vendor will station its cart at 1701 Main Street near the Richland County Courthouse.
The players
Deandraya Waddell
Deandraya Waddell is the business owner and operator of Red's Dogs.
Columbia City Council
The Columbia City Council is the local legislative body responsible for municipal permits and city ordinances.
The details
Red's Dogs, which recently earned a grade A inspection rating from the Department of Agriculture, received its official permit through a unanimous city council vote. The vendor is authorized to operate a cart at 1701 Main Street during both daytime weekday shifts and specific weekend night hours.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: City Council voted to approve the vendor permit.
Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Standard operating hours for the vendor.
Saturday, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.: Late-night operating hours for the vendor.
Political Context
This legislative action updates the city's adherence to the Columbia City Council municipal vendor permit ordinance. Opposition or dissent typically arises from local brick-and-mortar restaurant owners concerned about sidewalk congestion and competitive fairness.
Local residents and workers can now expect a new dining option on Main Street with all menu items priced at $5 or less. The site will provide additional food access near the Richland County Courthouse during weekday and late-night Saturday hours.
The takeaway
This decision reflects the city's efforts to diversify local commerce by granting permits to small, affordable food businesses. Residents looking for quick meals in the downtown area will now find new options at the 1701 Main Street location.
Further reading
For more information on local government decisions, visit City Hall.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Post and Courier.
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