By Al Dozier
The Irmo Town Council Tuesday rejected a bid of $413,360.50 for clearing, fencing and surfacing work on the town’s Rawls Creek Park project, asserting it was far too expensive.
“It boggles my mind,” Councilman Bill Danielson said of the cost of the project.
Clearing, grubbing, tree and debris removal was priced at $121,968. Large dog fencing, topsoil and entry gate were priced at more than $100,000. The costs for the same projects for small dogs were placed at more than $70,000. Park signage was priced at $48,000.
The bid from McClam & Associates was the only bid the town received for Phase 1 of the project.
The council agreed to consider separating the various projects and getting new cost projections.
Rawls Creek Park is a 9-acre tract on Friarsgate Boulevard with a planned community garden, playground, skateboard park and dog park.
In other action, the council approved acceptance of a grant award in the amount of $88,052 from the S.C. Department of Public Safety State School Officer Program to fund a resource officer at Irmo Elementary School. The Irmo Police Department will fill the post.
The council gave first reading approval to annex into the town a five-acre tract owned by Jonnathan Priestino at 2342 Farming Creek Road. The property is contiguous to the town limits.
The council also gave first reading approval to annex 23 acres of property located at 1181 and 1191 Dutch Fork Road. The properties are owned by Michael Bull, St. Andrews Church of Christ and Betty Jaco. Town officials say it is a quality property that will be used for commercial development.
The council deferred the first reading of an ordinance to rezone a portion of a 16-acre tract from Fringe Agricultural to Residential Single-Family. The property could be developed for as many as 54 residential units. Councilman Erik Sickinger said such a development could create traffic problems. There was also a question about the property owner’s preferences for the zoning,
The council gave first reading approval to three ordinances updating the town’s official zoning map and clarifying language in zoning and land regulations.
The council approved closing portions of St. Andrews Road, Church Street and Eastview Drive from September 23-24 during the annual Okra Strut Festival.
Irmo Auto Supply, which has been in business for the past 24 years, was recognized as the June Small Business of the Month. Layne and Company was recognized as Artist of the Month.
During the “Community Connections” session the council recognized Dr. Alonzo Johnson from Universal Leadership and STEAM Academy. Councilwoman Barbara Waldman advised the council of the summer food program sponsored by Lexington Richland District 5 from June 6 through August 5. The council was also advised the ribbon cutting for the Ivy Heritage Community Garden will be held on June 25.
New in-town businesses recognized were: Interfirm Brokers, 7821 St. Andrews Road; Infallible Body Essentials, 937 Friarsgate Boulevard. Moore, Beauston, Woodham LLP, 7193 St. Andrews Road; Build on Your Land, 7464 Woodrow Street; KC Hair Design, 7001 St. Andrews Road; 11 Tyme 24 T-Shirt & Catering, 142 Road Oaks Drive; Ultimate Car Wash Service, 1019 Old Town Road.
