Irmo: New Changes to Zoning Guidelines and Other Government Updates

In a recent council meeting, the town officials of Irmo announced a significant amendment to the zoning guidelines. The change is expected to make property development plans less restrictive, setting a new pace for investors and the community. The ordinances passed during the February 20 council meeting ushered the city into an era where the local administration gives more careful thought to zoning districts.

Negotiated Zoning Districts and More Leeway for Planning Commissions

In a unanimous decision, the council members voted in favor of establishing “negotiated zoning districts,” a system that would allow the planning commission more freedom to work around the current regulations on property development. A particular point of contention has been the restrictive requirements for patio homes, an issue that the amendment aims to address along with other pressing zoning-related matters.

Formation of an Events Committee

Another change captures the introduction of an Events Committee. This new committee is set to advise the council on an increasing number of entertainment events and activities throughout the Irmo community. It is a welcome move, as the city’s Events Chairman, George Frazier, had previously been tasked with shouldering these responsibilities alone. Mr. Frazier expressed enthusiasm for the new committee’s formation, signaling his support for the change.

Amendments to Existing Ordinances and Property Management

The council also approved several measures from the recently revised Lexington County Animal Control Ordinance. Furthermore, an acre of property situated at 900 Lake Murray Boulevard has been rezoned from Neighborhood Commercial to General Commercial. This property currently houses Premier Aesthetic Dentistry, with the change being recommended by the Planning Commission. Moving forward, a .13 acre at Quick Terrace Road has been annexed into the town and classified as Single Family Residential.

Other Government Purchases and Updates

The panoply of changes ensued with the council approving the purchase of six traffic radar signs costing $23,802, a measure aimed at combating speeding issues within the town boundaries. This decision came after the police department’s requests. Additionally, the local Public Works Department has been authorized to procure two Ford f-250 trucks totaling a sum of $102,411. This acquisition aims to replace two aged vehicles in their current fleet.

Community Highlights: Irmo Chili Cookoff, Car Show, and Small Business of the Month

Irmo also thrived on the social scene, with the Chili Cookoff and Car Show held on February 10 being a resounding success. Seventeen vendors participated, with all the chili being sold out during the event. The council meeting additionally paid homage to ButterKreme Queen Bakery, acknowledging it as the Small Business of the Month. The city also looks forward to the upcoming Black History Celebration scheduled for February 24 at the Irmo High School Center for Arts.

New businesses setting their foot in the town were also recognized. These include Brow Gal, Euro Nails, Wild Hair, several salons under the umbrella of LUXE Hair Salon, Michael J. Garrett Salon, Slim City Weight Loss, Heart and Hands Home Care LLC, and Upwards Physiotherapy.