Columbia Ordered to Pay $5M to Former Carwash Owner

A Landmark Car Wash's Legal Victory

The City of Columbia has been ordered to pay over $5 million to the former owners of a historic car wash located in the capital city. This decision came after a judge ruled in favor of the car wash’s previous owners during a legal dispute concerning flood damage.

The Constan Car Wash, which first opened its doors in 1949, served as a beloved destination for generations of customers. It remained open for decades until it closed its doors in the spring of 2021. The closure marked the end of an era for the community and the family that had operated the business for years.

Andrew Hand, an attorney with the Harpootlian Law Firm, shared his perspective on the emotional toll the situation took on the family. “Imagine being a third-generation owner of a family business and watching it crumble before your eyes, and that's exactly what happened to Mr. Smith,” he said. Hand represented Chip Smith, who was part of the family that owned and managed the car wash.

According to the attorneys involved, the issue of flooding at the car wash location had persisted for many years. Despite repeatedly reporting the problem to the City of Columbia, the family found themselves without a solution. In response, they decided to take action.

“He reached out to a well-known engineer named Dan Creed to design a wall that would be placed in front of the property to divert floodwater away from it. He then applied to the City of Columbia for a permit to construct this wall, and the city approved the request,” Hand explained.

This decision by the city to grant the permit was a significant step in the family’s efforts to protect their business. However, the ongoing issues with flooding continued to impact the car wash, ultimately leading to its closure.

The legal battle that followed highlighted the challenges faced by small businesses when dealing with infrastructure and environmental issues. The case also brought attention to the responsibilities of local governments in addressing concerns raised by residents and business owners.

As the story of the Constan Car Wash unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the need for effective communication between local authorities and those affected by public works projects. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for future disputes involving similar situations.

In addition to the financial compensation awarded to the former owners, the case has sparked conversations about how cities can better support businesses facing environmental challenges. It also emphasizes the need for proactive measures to prevent damage caused by natural events such as flooding.

For the Smith family, the legal victory is bittersweet. While they have received a substantial amount of money, the loss of their business represents more than just a financial setback—it is a loss of heritage and history. The Constan Car Wash was not just a place for car washes; it was a part of the community's identity.

As the city moves forward, it will be important to learn from this case and implement changes that ensure the protection of local businesses and the preservation of community landmarks. The story of the Constan Car Wash is a powerful example of the impact that environmental challenges can have on small businesses and the importance of addressing these issues effectively.