By Al Dozier
The town of Irmo is beginning a new effort to make Irmo a “beautiful” town.
At the Dec. 17 meeting the council approved a contract with Bowman Engineering to perform services in the amount of $10,500 to prepare cost estimates for beautification improvements to signalized intersections along S.C. 60 and St. Andrews Road. The scope of work includes studies for landscaping, hardscaping, striping, signage, mast arm signal poles and appearances.
In other action, the council gave final reading to an ordinance annexing two lots adjacent to the BP Station at the corner of Lake Murray Boulevard and Nursery Road, including the large blue building at 1621 Lake Murray Blvd.
The council also gave final reading to an ordinance that amends the zoning code to allow professional services, support services and gyms in the Neighborhood Commercial District. The amendment simplifies the zoning process.
Another ordinance that received final reading will make it easier for local contractors to be licensed by providing one license to cover a variety of actions. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC subcontractors will still need individual business licenses.
The council also gave final reading to an ordinance that changes the required dates for rental registration, and clarifies offenses and violations. The ordinance also creates an occupant inspection request for renters concerned about issues in their homes.
The council approved acceptance of a S.C Department of Public Safety Justice Assistance Grant in the amount of $132,434 to purchase and upgrade police radios. The town will only have to pay 10 percent of the cost.
The council approved a Letter of Credit for the Bickley Station housing development in the amount of $298,321.31 to guarantee the construction of unfinanced infrastructure.
Mayor Bill Danielson provided an update on the Central Midlands Council of Governments annual conference.
Local officials were informed of the huge costs now underway to improve roads and infrastructure throughout the state. Attendants were told that bridge repairs are currently in a state of crisis. He also noted that South Carolina is now considered one of fastest growing states in the nation.
The council recognized Kathy’s Kreations as the December 2024 Small Business of the Month.
Dutch Fork Middle School was featured in the council agenda’s School Showcase. Principal Vernon Sava outlined various programs designed to assist students in need. The school seeks to “foster a culture of exclusion.”
The council also heard a presentation from the South Carolina Philharmonic, which is now providing free entertainment presentations in the Irmo area.
New in-town businesses recognized during the meeting include the following: Lake Murray Mitsubishi, 1001 North Wingard Road; Woodspring Suites Irmo, 941 Columbiana Drive; T&P Automotive, LLC., 7948 Broad River Road; Ruth Strait Ellis Counseling 10415 Broad River Road; Firm Roots Counseling, 7825 Broad River Road; All Us Towing LLP, 238 Old Dutch Fork Road; Underdog Digital, 1204 Lexington Ave. #2A.
Councilwoman Barb Waldman announced the following upcoming community events: Delivering Joy; Free Microchipping; District 5 Hiring Event; District 5 Magnet Fair; Block Kids; Chili Cook-Off; Young Filmmakers.
