The Columbia City Council tackled major community issues Monday night from homelessness to recreation and liquor laws.

Council members approved nearly $1 million in funding for homeless services about $585,000 to the Voluntary Action Center for overnight shelter and $432,000 to Turning Point for warming and drop-in centers.

The council also backed a $100,000 pilot to place trained liaisons on GoCOMO buses to help deescalate conflicts.

Environmental groups urged the city to move forward with a plan to protect a 320-acre recreation area connected to Gans Creek.

And ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the council discussed whether to opt out of extended liquor hours citing public safety and health concerns.