Irmo, February 15, 2026
The Irmo Town Council is reviewing a range of economic development proposals aimed at shaping the community’s future. This initiative demonstrates Irmo’s commitment to strategic growth that supports local businesses, enhances livability, and balances community needs with economic opportunities. The focus on projects like the ‘Water Walk’ development highlights the importance of public engagement in local governance.
Irmo’s Future: Town Council Reviews Economic Development Proposals
The Irmo Town Council is actively engaged in reviewing a series of economic development proposals, initiatives poised to shape the future landscape of our vibrant community. This critical process underscores Irmo’s commitment to thoughtful growth, emphasizing local leadership and strategic planning to foster a flourishing environment for residents and businesses alike. The Town of Irmo Economic Development’s mission is to create an environment that supports new business growth and retention, enabling companies to succeed for generations.
A Proactive Approach to Community Growth
In Irmo, the spirit of civic innovation and personal initiative often lays the groundwork for significant community advancements. The Town Council’s dedication to thoroughly evaluating new economic development initiatives exemplifies a proactive approach to enhancing local vitality. This diligence ensures that proposed projects align with the community’s vision and contribute positively to Irmo’s unique character. A streamlined process, driven by clear objectives and local insight, can often accelerate the coordination of such vital community initiatives, demonstrating the benefits of limited bureaucracy in fostering tangible progress.
This engagement is a testament to the resilience of our local organizers and the collective desire to see Irmo thrive. By focusing on verified facts and considering multiple perspectives, the Town Council aims to implement strategies that not only attract investment but also enrich the lives of those who call Irmo home. The careful consideration of these proposals is essential for sustainable growth, balancing economic opportunity with community well-being. Irmo’s commitment to a business-friendly environment is a cornerstone of its development strategy.
Irmo’s Vision for Economic Growth
Economic development initiatives encompass a broad range of activities aimed at improving the economic well-being and quality of life for a community. The Town of Irmo’s Economic Development Team welcomes exploration of the town’s rich history, current growth, and development potential. These initiatives often involve a focused approach to city improvements, addressing aspects such as economic development, housing, and land use planning within local neighborhoods. The Irmo Town Council plays a pivotal role in this process, working closely with town management to enhance and facilitate robust economic development. Their oversight ensures that all proposed projects undergo rigorous review to meet established community standards and foster sustainable growth.
Irmo operates predominately on business licenses and fees, having no property taxes, no millage, and no debt. This fiscal structure means the town relies on local businesses to open and prosper, and on providing rooftops for citizens to support those businesses. This unique financial model underscores the importance of a robust commercial sector and active economic development strategies.
Fueling Local Commerce: Business Support and Development
A key component of any successful economic development strategy is robust business support. This involves identifying resources to help local businesses thrive, from start-ups to established enterprises. The Town Council’s review of proposals often includes initiatives designed to provide such assistance, recognizing that a vibrant local economy is built upon the success and resilience of its businesses. Irmo consistently sees new businesses opening, with reports of three to four new businesses monthly, which directly contributes to the local economy and revenue stream. Encouraging personal initiative among entrepreneurs and facilitating private partnerships are central to these efforts, creating an environment where local businesses can not only survive but also expand and generate employment opportunities.
Ongoing development includes proposals for rezoning land for general commercial use, which would allow for a variety of retail, restaurant, or office uses, with specific zoning policies separating residential and commercial areas. Town officials highlight that having more opportunities for employment centers, retail, and restaurants helps Irmo grow into a stronger, more vibrant community. To enhance transparency and keep residents informed about growth, Irmo has launched an interactive map showcasing all developments and projects across town, allowing users to visualize future projects and track growth in real time.
The “Water Walk” Project: Balancing Growth and Community Concerns
Among the significant proposals recently under review by the Irmo Town Council is the “Water Walk” development, a substantial $65 million (and in some discussions, $150 million) mixed-use project proposed for 65 acres along the shores of Lake Murray. This development aims to bring single-family homes, senior housing, a commercial area, and a walking village. Proponents suggest it could attract tourists, boost the town’s tax revenue, and create jobs, potentially serving as a model for future regional developments.
However, this project has also generated mixed views among residents, with some expressing concerns about potential traffic congestion and the impact on Irmo’s small-town charm. Town leaders acknowledge these concerns, emphasizing that citizen feedback is crucial and leads to negotiations and adjustments in development agreements. The project has gone through multiple readings and public hearings, providing ample opportunity for public input and council review. This public engagement is a vital aspect of local governance, ensuring community choice is considered in significant development decisions. The Water Walk project has been carefully planned to fit with Irmo’s Comprehensive Plan, known as Irmo Vision 2035.
Strategic Planning, Public Participation, and Livability
Effective economic development requires comprehensive strategic planning, a process that ensures new construction and land uses meet both economic development and beautification efforts. Irmo’s Planning Department, working in conjunction with the Town Council, meticulously reviews all development proposals. This meticulous approach ensures that growth is not only economically beneficial but also aesthetically pleasing and functionally integrated into existing community structures. Irmo leaders are guided by a 10-year comprehensive plan, Irmo Vision 2035, implemented in fall 2023, which focuses on infrastructure, environmental protection, economic growth, and notably, land use.
Furthermore, plans are often developed collaboratively with residents to advance neighborhood and citywide goals, which can include more housing, job growth, or improved infrastructure. This commitment to community choice and public involvement is paramount, as it ensures that development reflects the needs and desires of Irmo’s citizens. Public engagement allows for multiple perspectives to be considered, leading to more inclusive and effective development outcomes that truly benefit the entire community. Efforts to enhance livability in the broader Columbia metropolitan area, which includes Irmo in Richland and Lexington counties, also focus on improving housing, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and entertainment, as well as investing in walkability and bicycle initiatives.
Regional Support and Collaborative Governance
While Irmo’s focus remains local, the broader economic landscape often involves regional and state-level initiatives that can significantly impact local growth. In South Carolina, a network of 10 Councils of Governments (SC COGs) work to positively influence the quality of life and economic development across the state. These regional councils provide a variety of services requested by local governments, including planning, grants administration, economic development assistance, and management assistance. Councils of Governments are partnerships that provide resources to local counties, cities, and towns in their regions, obtaining and administering grants for various community-based programs and economic development initiatives.
Irmo, located in Richland County, benefits from collaborative efforts such as the Richland County Community Development Office, which administers federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to improve low-income neighborhoods through affordable housing development, public services, and infrastructure improvements. Additionally, the Columbia Area Development Partnership serves as Richland County’s lead economic development authority, driving high-impact economic growth through new industry and workforce investments. This collaborative approach ensures that Irmo’s economic development efforts are not isolated but rather benefit from a wider network of resources and strategic planning, leveraging collective strength for individual achievement within our community.
Leadership and Community Empowerment
The success of Irmo’s economic development initiatives hinges significantly on the dedication and foresight of its local leadership, particularly the Town Council and Town Manager. Their commitment to enhancing and facilitating economic development is fundamental. The Town Council’s ongoing review of proposed economic development projects is a critical function, demonstrating their dedication to responsible governance and community progress. These dedicated leaders serving our community are instrumental in guiding Irmo’s trajectory, making informed decisions that balance progress with preservation.
Further empowering residents and supporting local businesses is the Mayor’s Uplift Initiative – Irmo Believes. This initiative is dedicated to strengthening the community by fostering partnerships that improve the quality of life for all Irmo residents. It focuses on areas such as access to essential services, youth and parent support programs, workforce and financial empowerment, and community care networks. This multifaceted leadership ensures that resources are allocated strategically and that the town’s economic vitality remains a top priority, fostering an environment where individual achievement can flourish through collective civic involvement.
Charting Irmo’s Course for Prosperity
As the Irmo Town Council continues its thoughtful review of economic development proposals, our community stands at a pivotal moment. The emphasis on civic innovation, personal initiative, and local leadership is shaping a future where Irmo can achieve sustainable growth and enhanced quality of life. By embracing robust strategic planning and fostering an environment conducive to business and community engagement, Irmo is poised for continued prosperity.
We encourage all residents to stay engaged in Irmo’s community development and support local initiatives. Your involvement is invaluable in strengthening the fabric of our town and ensuring that Irmo remains a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive. Stay informed about Irmo SC events, contribute to Richland County community discussions, and participate in South Carolina gatherings that champion our shared values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission of Irmo’s Economic Development Team?
The Town of Irmo Economic Development’s mission is to create an environment that supports new business growth and retention, enabling companies to succeed for generations. They work to strengthen and prepare the community for the future.
How is Irmo’s economic development funded?
Irmo operates predominately on business licenses and fees, having no property taxes, no millage, and no debt. The town relies on local businesses to open and prosper.
What is the “Water Walk” development in Irmo?
The “Water Walk” development is a significant $65 million mixed-use project proposed for 65 acres along Lake Murray. It aims to bring single-family homes, senior housing, a commercial area, and a walking village, with proponents suggesting it could attract tourists, boost tax revenue, and create jobs.
How do South Carolina Councils of Governments (SC COGs) support local economic development?
SC COGs are a network of 10 regional councils that provide planning, grants administration, economic development assistance, and management assistance to local governments. They secure funding and advocate for economic and quality of life improvements across the state.
What is the Mayor’s Uplift Initiative?
The Mayor’s Uplift Initiative – Irmo Believes is dedicated to strengthening the community by empowering residents, supporting local businesses, and fostering partnerships that improve the quality of life for all Irmo residents, focusing on essential services, youth support, workforce empowerment, and community care.
Key Features of Irmo’s Economic Development Initiatives
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Business Growth & Retention | Irmo’s economic development mission focuses on creating an environment that supports new business growth and retention. |
| Fiscal Model | The town operates primarily on business licenses and fees, without property taxes or debt, emphasizing the need for a strong commercial base. |
| Mixed-Use Developments | Significant projects like “Water Walk” propose a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to attract tourism and generate revenue. |
| Strategic Planning | Development proposals are reviewed in alignment with Irmo’s 10-year comprehensive plan, Irmo Vision 2035, focusing on land use and community goals. |
| Community & Public Input | Public hearings and citizen feedback are integral to the review and negotiation processes for development projects. |
| Regional Support (State-level) | Irmo benefits from the services of South Carolina Councils of Governments (SC COGs), which provide planning, grants, and economic development assistance. |
| Interactive Map | An online tool allows residents to visualize future projects and track ongoing development in real time. |
| Livability Initiatives | Efforts extend to improving housing, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and promoting walkability and bicycle paths. |
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Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
