The Columbia Board of Aldermen on Nov. 7 passed an ordinance aimed at keeping storm drains and street gutters unclogged.

The new law rewrote section 92.76, Tree and Grass Trimmings, of the Town Code to read:

“It shall be unlawful for any person to place or allow to be placed any tree, grass or shrubbery trimmings on any street or sidewalk unless secured or bagged in such a way that it is rendered incapable of washing or falling into Town storm drains or street gutters.”

The ordinance further provided that a violation is “an infraction punishable by a fine of up to $50.”

Town attorney Dwight Wheless said that any person can “swear out a warrant” against an alleged offender. He also informed the board that District Court cost is $188.

The vote was unanimous, and the aldermen delayed its effective date to Dec. 7.

Voting for the measure were Lloyd Armstrong, who made the motion to adopt; James Cahoon; Midge Ogletree; and Ray Marner. Sandra Owens were absent, and Mayor Michael Griffin votes only to break a tie.