Irmo South Carolina
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Irmo was recognized in 2018 as “One of the Safest Cities” in South Carolina. Located on the shore of Lake Murray and only 10 miles from Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, Irmo was a sleepy little town of 500 people in the early 1970s. Today, with nearly 13,000 residents, Irmo is one of the country’s most sought-after places to live.
Photo/Elizabeth Jones
2025 Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Billy Chastain, Chair, Dominion Energy SC
David Kafitz, Past Chair, Exit Realty New Horizons
Emilie Keene, Chair-Elect, Palmetto Xpress
Christy Cox, Secretary, Providence Home
Morgan Leath, Treasurer, United Community Bank
Directors
Mary Ciesielski, Security Federal Bank
Sterlin Carpenter, Prisma Health
Sarah Stitley, Lexington Medical Center
Bart Baldwin, Bart’s Crazy Good Coffee
Rhonda Midgette, Insightful HR
Melissa Busby, Wellhaven Home Care
Waites Epps, Optus Bank
Tom Ledbetter, 17/20 Professional Cutlery Sharpening
Jason King, J. King Real Estate
Brian Crocker, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union
Tami Smith, Christian Brothers Automotive - Irmo
Captain Steven Tapler, Richland County Sheriff’s Dept.
Kristin Cobb, Harbison Theatre at MTC
Mark Smyers, Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission
Rebecca Hines, Small Business Development Center
Courtney Dennis, Town of Irmo
Kerry Powers, Irmo Chamber, President/CEO
Welcome to Irmo, South Carolina!
Welcome
to the ‘Mo!
e Irmo Chamber just celebrated 30 years as the voice of the Irmo business community, and 2025 will mark my 10th year as President/CEO! I encourage you to spend your dollars right here in Irmo and Lexington County. ere is a reason we have experienced unprecedented growth over the last ve years: top-shelf shopping, dining, schools, communities and PEOPLE!
If I can ever be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me at the Chamber. Whether you are just visiting or you’re making the visit permanent, I hope you enjoy your time with us!
Kerry Powers President & CEO Greater Irmo Chamber
Visitors,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Town of Irmo. As a small town we can deliver big things yet still maintain that small town feeling. Irmo has beautiful green spaces, including Moore Park with its centerpiece Prisma Amphitheater, beautiful and picturesque Irmo Town Park, our Veteran’s Memorial Park and our newly created First Responders Memorial. In addition, we have completed the construction of Rawls Creek Park which includes two dog parks, a community garden and our brand new 8,000-square-foot skate park. Rawls Creek Park was thoughtfully embedded within our largest neighborhood, Friarsgate. This location specifically brings folks from hundreds of houses within walking distance. This is part of our “Amenities for Neighbors” theme here in Irmo!
Living and working in Irmo provides for a lifestyle that is vibrant and affordable. From our hous-ing opportunities to the beauty of our parks and the abundant dining and entertainment opportuni-ties, there is something for everyone. Although the town itself is just under a population of 12,000, the number of folks living in and around the “community” exceeds 20,000. Please consider us for a place to live, work and play!
Thank you for your interest in Irmo! Come check us out – you will not be disappointed.
Bill Danielson Mayor of Irmo
LEADS & DATA CENTER
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Many things Irmomake a special place
The Town of Irmo proudly offers four parks, each with its own unique charm and amenities. All parks are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and are free for public use.
Located at 7473 Church St., Moore Park is a hub of activity and fun for all ages. It hosts the Lexington Medical Center Irmo Okra Strut Festival the last weekend of September and features the Prisma Health Amphitheater, two picnic shelters with grills, scenic trails, a vast green field perfect for sports, a serene pond, a charming playhouse, and multiple playgrounds. Restrooms are conveniently nearby. It’s an ideal spot for parties, reunions, and celebrations of all kinds!
Situated at 7330 Carlisle St., Irmo Town Park is a quaint and picturesque location with a gazebo, pond, and lush gardens. It is the venue for the annual Christmas Tree Lighting and the Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring. This park is perfect for weddings, prom photos, small festivals, picnics, and more!
Dedicated to our veterans, Irmo Veterans Park on Palmetto Wood Parkway features a walking trail with gym equipment along the path. It’s a peaceful place to honor and reflect on the service of our veterans.
Our newest addition, Rawls Creek Park at 1113 Friarsgate Blvd., offers a community garden, small and large dog parks, an 8,500-square-foot skate park, a walking trail and a basketball court. It’s a fantastic place for community gatherings and outdoor activities.
We invite everyone to explore and enjoy the wonderful parks in the Town of Irmo! Visit the townofirmosc.com to learn more.
The rich history of Irmo
Irmo’s history is a captivating tale that begins as a modest rural settlement, serving as a crucial stop along the Columbia, Newberry, and Laurens Railroad. Officially incorporated on Dec. 24, 1890, the town’s name honors two notable railroad figures, Mr. Iredell and Mr. Moseley.
For many years, Irmo remained a peaceful rural community. However, the late 1960s and early 1970s saw the development of various subdivisions, sparking a transformation. By the late 1970s, Irmo experienced rapid growth, dramatically altering its landscape.
Irmo operates under the Council form of government as outlined by the South Carolina State Code. The town’s governance includes a mayor and four council members who create policies and establish town codes. The town administrator manages daily operations. Council members serve staggered four-year terms, with elections held every two years.
A significant milestone in Irmo’s history occurred in December 1988, when the Town Hall staff moved to a new location at 7300 Woodrow St. This building, known as the Lown House, was a generous gift from the Lown family. Originally a Victorian house built at the turn of the century, it was relocated to town-owned property at the corner of Woodrow Street and Columbia Avenue. Surrounded by willow oaks, the beautifully restored Lown House now stands as a proud symbol of Irmo’s Town Hall, overlooking the railroad that played
The Lown House, at the corner of Woodrow Street and Columbia Avenue, was a gift to the town from the Lown family. It became the Irmo Town Hall in 1988. (Photos/Town of Irmo)
What makes Irmo special
a pivotal role in the town’s founding.
Today, we take pride in Irmo being a safe, distinctive and attractive community that offers a blend of small-town and suburban lifestyles. The town is poised to grow with the Midlands by maintaining a diverse economic base and employing a balanced approach to growth. With the area’s scenic beauty, access to recreational opportunities, cultural resources and economic opportunity, Irmo is a welcoming place for people and businesses to call home.
Irmo Okra Strut: A Festival with Heart and History
In the early 1970s, the Lake Murray-Irmo Woman’s Club set out on a mission to build a library for Irmo. Known for their philanthropic efforts, the club faced the challenge of raising the necessary funds. Inspiration struck when they heard local commentator and WIS radio personality Gene McKay’s whimsical musings about the ‘Ancient Irmese General Store,’ once located at the corner of Fork Avenue and Woodrow Street. McKay humorously imagined these ancient people as short, agrarian folks sustained by okra. This playful idea sparked a solution for the
Woman’s Club’s fundraising efforts. In October of that year, they organized a small arts and crafts fair at Seven Oaks Park, called “The Okra Strut.” The club began the tradition of frying okra to raise money for the library. After seven years of dedication and countless servings of fried okra, the Woman’s Club successfully funded Irmo’s first library on St. Andrews Road.
Today, the Okra Strut Festival has grown under the management of the Town of Irmo, with oversight from the Town Council and the Okra Strut Commission. This two-day event features live music, a Saturday morning parade, arts and crafts, exciting rides, and a variety of delicious festival foods. The festival attracts an average of 25,000 attendees each year, with some years seeing up to 60,000 visitors, making it a highlight of Irmo’s cultural calendar.
Beyond the fun, the festival has a meaningful impact. Proceeds benefit local civic and school organizations through charitable donations, scholarships, and improvements to public spaces. The Okra Strut celebrates a half a century of bringing families together for an unforgettable end-of-summer event happening the last weekend of September.
The Prisma Health Amphitheatre at Moore Park.
Excellence in education
School District Five of Lexington & Richland Counties is committed to excellence in academics, the arts, athletics and community service. Our long legacy as a top district is the result of the combined efforts of many individuals and groups supporting our students.
School District Five continues to Love and Grow Our Students under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Akil E. Ross, Sr. The district welcomed a new principal to the Irmo cluster as Dr. Angie Slatton (Seven Oaks Elementary Global Magnet) was tapped to serve as the school’s interim principal. The district also welcomed a new Chief Financial Officer Heather Tucker, a new Director of Adult Education Dr. John McMillan. Jinni Friend was named interim Director of Special Services and Jerusha Spain was named the new coordinator of the Flexible Innovative Virtual Program (FIVE). All are veteran educators who have served the district for many years.
District Five is ranked as the top school district in the Midlands and the number two school district in South Carolina by Niche.com and was named the number one Best Place to Teach in South Carolina. It was ranked fourth in the state
for District with the Best Teachers. Our elementary and middle schools are ranked among the top in the state for academics by Niche.com, and in 2024, 100 District Five middle school students were named South Carolina Junior Scholars for PSAT scores and other measures.
District Five high schools are among the best in the state and the nation, preparing students for college and careers annually. U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best High Schools rankings rated the district at the top for preparing students for college, and several students earned National Merit Scholarships during the 20232024 school year. The district’s SAT and ACT scores were again among the top in the state, and District Five’s graduating classes earned millions in academic and athletic scholarships.
In School District Five, our goal is to provide students with experiences and programs of
Irmo High School football coach Aaron Brand was named the Carolina Panthers 2024 Coach of the Year. The award came with a $2,000 donation to the school’s athletic department.
study that will both prepare them for the workforce and help make them good citizens. Our career development programs consistently earn top honors and accolades, including national awards for students and teachers at the district’s Center for Advanced Technical Studies. School District Five is also a leader in career development opportunities for students with special needs, winning numerous awards for its BOOM (Building Occupational Opportunities in the Midlands) initiative with Midlands Technical College and Project SEARCH program with Prisma Health.
We know that characteristics taught in school will carry over to college and career successes. School District Five students and staff annually participate in community service events and contribute to the March of Dimes, United Way and other charitable organizations.
School District Five sports teams had successful seasons during the 2023-2024 school year, including the state championship for the Dutch Fork High School football program. Irmo High School football coach Aaron Brand was named the Carolina Panthers High School Coach of the Year. Band, choir, orchestra and arts programs in elementary, middle and high schools also continued to shine, receiving several prestigious awards.
Our incredible team of teachers, staff, and administrators also earned several awards this year. Lexington-Richland School District Five Director of Human Resources Dr. Reggie Wicker was named the 2025 District Level Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA). School District
Five Instructional Technology Specialist Susan Aplin was recognized as a “Champion of Equity –Technology Leadership” by the American Consortium for Equity in Education as part of their 2024 Excellence in Equity Awards. Dutch Fork Elementary School computer lab assistant Cissy Graham was named the District Support Employee of the year, and Oak Pointe Elementary School 5th Grade teacher Alyssa Powers was named the District Teacher of the Year. Leaphart Elementary School STEAM Magnet was named a 2024 Protect School of the Year and Irmo Middle School was named the 2024 Conserve School of the Year through the Green Steps program
School District Five has 16 magnet programs located in 11 schools. In 2023, Lexington-Richland School District Five received a new $9.6M grant from the U.S. Department of Education through the department’s Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). The money will be used at Harbison West Elementary School and Seven Oaks Elementary School. Harbison West
Kathy
School District Five staff at the annual Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics.
Cissy Graham, Dr. Akil Ross Sr. and Alyssa Powers at the annual Back to School Kickoff event. Graham and Powers were named Support Employee of the Year and Teacher of the Year.
Beth Phipps and
Hipp with Dr. Reggie Wicker, who was named the 2025 District Level Administrator of the Year.
Elementary will become a Gifted and Talent Development Magnet School using the School Enrichment Model (SEM) developed by Dr. Joseph Renzulli out of the University of Connecticut Renzulli Center for Creativity, Gifted Education and Talent Development. The SEM focuses on enrichment for all students through high levels of engagement and the use of enjoyable and
District Five
Fast Facts
Visionary Leadership: LexingtonRichland School District Five Director of Human Resources Dr. Reggie Wicker was named the 2025 District Level Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association of School Administrators (SCASA). Dr. Wicker has served the district since 2021.
Statewide Recognition: Leaphart Elementary School STEAM Magnet was named a 2024 Protect School of the Year and Irmo Middle School was named the 2024 Conserve School of
challenging learning experiences that are built around students’ interests, learning styles, and preferred modes of expression.
From top federal and state ratings to state championships, our achievements are the result of the combined efforts of school leaders and teachers, engaged parents, and exceptional students. Together, We Love and Grow our Students.
the Year through the Green Steps program for their ongoing e orts to protect the air and water around their schools. Irmo High School football coach Aaron Brand was named the Carolina Panthers High School Coach of the Year.
Top Scholarships: District Five had a number of Palmetto Fellows and National Merit Scholarship winners in 2024. Students in elementary, middle and high schools also earned state and national awards for academic achievement.
Seven Oaks Elementary
Global Magnet fosters a love of learning, celebrates diversity, and promotes engagement in rigorous, inquiry-based academics.
Harbison West Elementary
Gifted and Talent Development Magnet School is a school wide magnet that implements the School Wide Enrichment Model (SEM) developed by the University of Connecticut Renzulli Center for Creativity, Gifted
Our goal is to prepare students for the everchanging, globallycompetitive world. Seven Education, and Talent Development. This model develops the strengths and talents of all students.
Oaks Elementary Global Magnet is a Candidate School* for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and currently pursuing authorization as an IB World School.
Magnet opportunities in our district include schools/programs from 4-year-old kindergarten through high school with a specialized focus or theme that offer unique curricula for students. Learn more: www.lexrich5.org/choice.
PPrisma Health Baptist Parkridge Hospital
risma Health is the largest health organization in South Carolina and recently expanded into East Tennessee. Prisma Health serves more than 1 million patients annually at 19 acute care and specialty hospitals, as well as 320 physician practices
Prisma Health Baptist Parkridge Hospital, a 76-bed full-service community hospital with 24/7 emergency care, serves the residents of Irmo, Harbison, Dutch Fork, Ballentine, Chapin and surrounding areas.
The hospital provides high-quality, state-of-theart inpatient, medical, surgical and emergency care, along with greater access to primary care physicians and specialists. It includes inpatient units, an intensive care unit, a labor and delivery unit and a newborn nursery, six operating rooms, and diagnostic and treatment services including
laboratory, imaging and more.
Parkridge Hospital received a Fall 2024 Safety Grade of A from The Leapfrog Group and has a 5 Star Rating for quality from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Physician practices located on the Baptist Parkridge Hospital campus include:
• Carolina Allergy & Asthma Consultants
• Fertility Center of the Carolinas
• Prisma Health Breast Health Center
• Prisma Health Cardiology
• Prisma Health Family Medicine
• Prisma Health Neurosurgery
• Prisma Health OB/GYN
• Prisma Health Ophthalmology
• Prisma Health Optical Shop
• Prisma Health Orthopedics
• Prisma Health Orthopedic Oncology
• Prisma Health Orthopedic Rehabilitation
• Prisma Health Plastic Surgery
• Prisma Health Pulmonology
• Prisma Health Surgical Associates
• Prisma Health Spine Center
• Prisma Health Urgent Care
• Prisma Health Urology
Prisma Health’s nearly 30,000 team members are dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of you and your family. Our purpose is to: Inspire health. Serve with compassion. Be the difference. For more information about Prisma Health or to choose a provider near you, visit Prisma-Health.org.
Lexington Medical Center
Lexington Medical Center is a 607-bed teaching hospital in West Columbia. It anchors a health care network that includes six community medical centers and employs a staff of more than 8,700 health care professionals.
The hospital was ranked best hospital in the Columbia Metro by U.S. News & World Report, was named one of the “Best Places to Work in South Carolina” by SC Biz News and was the first hospital in the state to achieve Magnet with Distinction status for excellence in nursing care.
Lexington Medical Cancer Center is an accredited Cancer Center of Excellence and has a
clinical research and education affiliation with MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. The network includes a cardiovascular program recognized by the American College of Cardiology as South Carolina’s first HeartCARE Center.
The network also has an occupational health center, the largest skilled nursing facility in the Carolinas, an Alzheimer’s care center and nearly 80 physician practices.
Lexington Medical Center operates one of the busiest Emergency departments in South Carolina, treating nearly 100,000 patients each year. The hospital delivers more than 4,000 babies each year and performs more than 25,000 surgeries.
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Irmo Police Department
offers helpful programs for residents
Irmo Police Department is an agency of 29 officers and five civilian administrative staff, serving a community of about 12,000 people. By South Carolina standards, the Irmo Police Department is a medium to large agency. The department offers several different programs to keep the lines of communication open between the department and the community. The Irmo Police Department participates in the nationwide E911 program and emergency services are available by dialing 911.
The Irmo Police Department has two Divisions: Patrol and Special Operations. Both divisions are under the leadership of Chief Robert “Bobby” Dale. As a fifth-generation law enforcement officer, he began his career in 2001 and joined the Irmo Police Department in November 2003. Chief Dale has an open-door policy and welcomes the residents of Irmo to visit and meet the IPD officers and staff.
The Patrol Division is made up of four shifts that provide continuous 24-hour preventative patrol coverage and respond to calls for service within the Town of Irmo. Their roles vary to include detecting and deterring crime; traffic enforcement; direction and control; suppressing disturbances; apprehension of offenders; responding to calls for service; rendering aid; preliminary investigations; and interacting with the community in a manner consistent with our policies.
The Special Operations Division consists of the Criminal Investigations Division and the Community Services Division. The Criminal Investigations Division is tasked with following up on leads in criminal cases. The Investigators are available to respond at any time day or night to scenes of any incident. They are also responsible for processing all major crime scenes as well as the collection, packaging and preservation of evidence. Within the Criminal Investigations Division is our Drone and Drone Pilot. The Irmo Police Department Drone, or “Okra 1,” as it’s been affectionately named, has been instrumental in missing persons investigations and a fan favorite at community functions such as National Night Out.
The Community Services Division focuses on improving the quality of life for residents within
Irmo Police Chief Robert ‘Bobby’ Dale.
the Town of Irmo. Their officers conduct child safety seat inspections and handle Code Enforcement complaints in addition to attending community functions around the Irmo area. Through a grant, IPD now staffs an SRO at Irmo Elementary, which has been a big hit for the school and the community. Among the responsibilities of this division are the Irmo Police Department Explorer Post 800 and Serving Our Seniors.
The Irmo Police Department Law Enforcement Explorer post is through the Boy Scouts of America. This program allows young people ages 14 to 20 with an interest in being a police officer to learn about law enforcement from officers within the department. Members of the post receive instruction in different areas of police work and then compete against other posts in South Carolina. Several employees of the Irmo Police Department, including Chief Dale, Lieutenant Andrea Grinstead and Corporal Chris Kaderly, are former Law Enforcement Explorers. If you would like more information regarding Explorer Post 800, contact Corporal Chris Kaderly at ckaderly@townofirmosc. com or 803-781-8088.
The Irmo Police Department also offers a program for our senior citizens called Serving Our Seniors (SOS). We offer educational programs throughout the year about avoiding scams, crime prevention and weather preparedness. We also contact program participants if we have advanced notice of inclement weather. If you would like to participate in the SOS program, contact Sergeant Brett Mielke
at bmielke@townofirmosc.com or 803-781-8088.
We were very excited this year to partner with Lexington-Richland School District Five for their “Ready By Five” Program. Ready By Five provides education and support to families with children from prenatal to kindergarten. The goal is to prepare parents and caretakers to be their children’s best and most important teachers while equipping them for school entry and lifelong success. Officers carry Ready By Five bags in their patrol cars that include a stuffed teddy bear, book and post card with links to resources available to families within the school district.
We are located at 1230 Columbia Ave., beside the Irmo Town Park, and more recently, the Irmo First Responders Memorial. Officially unveiled May 28, 2024, the obelisk displays the emblems of the Irmo Fire Department, Irmo Police Department and the Town of Irmo. Made of black granite, the memorial is surrounded by four benches symbolizing the virtues of courage, honor and sacrifice.
Finally, we offer house checks for citizens who are away on vacation, fingerprinting services to citizens who are required to have their fingerprints taken for occupational reasons (teachers, stockbrokers), prescription medication disposal, Project ChildSafe gun locks, and child safety seat inspections. These services are free to community members who live in the town limits. To arrange any of those services or have an officer come speak at your event, call the department at 803-781-8088 or visit our website at www.townofirmosc.com
Irmo Fire District always ready to serve
The Irmo Fire District was established in 1963 as a special purpose district enacted by the South Carolina Legislature. We have a long and outstanding history of pride and tradition that allows us to work to-gether as a family and serve our community in a most efficient manner. The IFD serves between 45,000 and 50,000 citizens spread across an area of approximately 28 square miles. This includes the Irmo Fire District, the Town of Irmo, Lexington County, Richland County and areas of Ballentine and St. Andrews. We also have automatic aid agreements with the Columbia Richland Fire Service and Lexington County Fire Service.
The Irmo Fire District carries a Class one rating from ISO (Insurance Services Office Inc). This highly coveted rating is only held by 2% of the fire departments in the country. Irmo Fire District provides the daily emergency and non-emergent services to our citizens, businesses, and visitors by responding to all types of fires, emergency medical incidents, motor vehicle crashes, swift water rescue, hazardous material incidents, natural disasters, citizen assists and technical rescues. Our services also include community risk reduction efforts, such as fire prevention, code enforcement, public services, public education, and community outreach. IFD is dedicated to providing the highest level of service in each and every one of these categories. Our three fire stations are staffed 24/7 and house two Engines, one Ladder truck, and a rescue boat between them. The newest fire station opened in March 2020 and will improve our ability to provide services to a growing community. This new station is located near the Irmo Police Department at 7422 Childs Street. Our 39 suppression personnel are divided into 3 shifts, and are operational every day of the year.
The Irmo Fire District has been recognized by the State Fire Marshal’s Office as a Fire Safe Community for three consecutive years. Our dedicated Fire Marshal is committed to pre-
IFD Crews pose with Tiller 175. (Photos/Irmo Fire Dept.)
IFD Swift Water Crews at the Lake Murray Dam Swim.
serve lives through community safety education, effective fire inspections, detailed fire plan reviews, comprehensive fire investigation, and smoke alarms. We install hundreds of smoke alarms and CO2 alarms annually through a grant given to the Irmo Fire Foundation.
Being a fire fighter is more than putting out fires. We answer approximately 5,000 calls for service annually, with public service, community care, lifting assistance, wellness checks, and other “well-being” activities representing over 35% of all calls, and fire calls representing only
7%. IFD also provides free car seat checks by appointment.
We love being a part of the community and getting to know everyone. We are happy to schedule apparatus and safety demos at daycares, schools, church groups, neighborhood homeowner’s associations, and public events. These enable us to teach basic fire safety to our citizens. We enjoy giving tours of the station and encourage future fire fighters that want a closer look at the fire engines to stop by and spend some time with us.
Irmo firefighter in a controlled live burn exercise.
Members of the Swift Water Rescue Crew at a mutual aid training session.
Tiller 175 at a community event.
IFD Swift Water Crews on Rescue Boat 17 at the Lake Murray Dam Swim.
Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce
Growing a Stronger Business Community
The Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce was started in the early 1990s as the Irmo Business Association. The GICC received its official 501(c)6 charter from the S.C. Secretary of State in August 1994. Since then, the Irmo Chamber has become more than 500 Partners strong and has created a place for the thriving Irmo business community to network, engage in professional development and learn the skills necessary to grow a successful business. We are here to support and
further the interests of our Partners! Known as the #FunChamber, there are many ways to connect with other Partners in the business community. Join us for Ribbon Cuttings, After Hours events, well-attended Monthly Luncheons and one of the BEST (FREE) networking groups in the Midlands, Coffee Talk (every Tuesday at 8 a.m.). Come grow your business with us!
For more information or to get involved, contact the Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce! Phone: 803.749.9355 Email: ceo@greaterirmochamber.com Web: www.GreaterIrmoChamber.com
Cutting the ribbon on Bart’s Crazy Good Coffee’s newest location.
The Irmo Chamber was gifted a hand-painted replica of Firefighter “J” Muller’s helmet shield by Chief Mike Sonefeld. Firefighter Muller answered his last alarm on May 26, 2023.
Irmo Chamber President Kerry Powers and Chairman David Kafitz accept a proclamation from Richland County Councilman Jason Branham to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Irmo Chamber of Commerce.
Enjoy the delicious options at Tropical Smoothie Café in Irmo!
2025 Event Calendar
#FunChamber
Follow us on social media for up-to-date information on our Business After Hours, Kerry-oke Night, Laser Tag and Ribbon Cuttings.
@irmochamber
@IrmoChamber
February: Irmo Chamber Awards Night & Gala
April: Spring Golf Outing, Irmo International Festival, Irmo Town Limits Concert Series
May: Red White & Brews
September: Irmo Community Prayer Breakfast and Irmo Okra Strut
October: Fall Golf Outing
December: Holiday Oyster Roast & Irmo Tree Lighting
Monthly: Partner Luncheon (second Wednesday of the month)
Weekly: Coffee Talk, 8 a.m. every Tuesday at Stars & Strikes!
A great placeto play
Creating community through people, parks and programs
The Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission (ICRC) has been offering quality indoor and outdoor recreation programs, youth and adult athletics, afterschool programs, environmental education, senior services, cultural art programming, and FUN for more than 50 years. See the graphic on pages 28-29 for details on the five signature parks ICRC operates.
American Floral: A Bedrock of Irmo’s Community: one of the Ancient Irmese!
American floral is a family-owned floral business deeply rooted in the Irmo community. Known for their community involvement, attention to detail and artistic designs, they have brought beauty to countless events and made a difference in the quality of life in the Midlands.
For Scott & Kim Jones, owners of American Floral, the mission goes far beyond creating beautiful arrangements. Their life goal and passion are to make people happy and help them through the art of floristry.
Kim shared… “Some of us ARE family by blood… and some of us are family by the love of serving our community through delivering the beauty of flowers for life’s moments! It takes all of us to make it come together”.
American Floral’s FABULOUS family team take pride in crafting arrangements that capture personality
and vision of each client. Whether crafting a bride’s bouquet, a holiday centerpiece, or a stunning sympathy tribute, American Floral’s designs beautify and enhance the atmosphere of any occasion with love.
Proudly serving Columbia, Chapin and Lexington, American Floral’s award-winning team has brought personalized beauty to over 4,000 weddings and countless events, earning glowing reviews for their ability to make every occasion feel uniquely personal.
American Floral is more than a florist — they’re part of the fabric of Irmo. “From our family to yours, thank you for 31 wonderful years of support!”
The American Floral Family
Carrabba’s Italian Grill of Irmo: Where Family, Community and Flavor Meet
Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Irmo is a cherished gathering place, blending culinary traditions with a strong sense of community. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and handcrafted dishes, Carrabba’s offers a space where families and friends can create lasting memories.
Beyond the delicious meals, Carrabba’s is deeply rooted in the Irmo community. They take pride in supporting local schools, organizations and events, strengthening the bonds that make Irmo such a special place. The team at Carrabba’s believes in creating connections that extend beyond their restaurant walls, fostering relationships that truly feel like family.
For date nights, family dinners or a casual outing with friends, Carrabba’s Italian Grill of Irmo offers a dining experience full of heart and flavor. At Carrabba’s, it’s about more than food — it’s about bringing people together and celebrating the spirit of Irmo.
Cut Throat Marketing: Empowering Small Businesses
Cut Throat Marketing was founded with a bold mission: to help small businesses compete in a global environment. Frustrated by unethical practices in the marketing industry, founder Cynthia Giles built a company rooted in brutal honesty and transparency. Whether explaining complex strategies in simple terms or admitting when they don’t know something, Cut Throat Marketing ensures clients can grow with confidence.
An active member of the Building Industry Association (BIA) and Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce (GICC), Cut Throat Marketing contributes to Irmo’s success through leadership and community involvement. They’ve partnered with the SC Small Business Development Center and Midlands Tech to provide technology training on tools like Canva, social media platforms, and AI integration.
From helping businesses navigate 2020’s challenges to earning the prestigious “Order of the Okra,” the company remains a champion for local
growth. With clients across the U.S. and employees as far away as California, Cut Throat Marketing is proud to stay rooted in Irmo, ensuring local businesses thrive for years to come.
Building Comfort, Strengthening Community
At Kay Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, being part of the Midlands community means more than providing services — it’s about building connections and trust with the people they serve every day. Founded by Konrad Orzechowski, the company is known for treating every home and family with the respect they deserve.
Kay Plumbing, Heating & Cooling values its place in the community, working to create comfortable, safe spaces for local families and businesses. Whether responding to a middle-of-the-night emergency or helping with a planned renovation, the team approaches every job with the same care they’d extend to their own homes.
Beyond their work, Kay Plumbing supports the local community by participating in neighborhood events.Their commitment to the area goes hand in hand with their passion for ensuring the Midlands remains a wonderful place to live and grow.
For Kay Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, it’s always about people — neighbors helping neighbors. Their
work is a reflection of the values shared by the community: integrity, kindness and the importance of making every space feel like home.
Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative has been a reliable provider of electricity for the Irmo area for decades. As a member-owned cooperative, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative is deeply committed to serving its community with dependable, affordable and safe energy.
More than just a utility provider, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative believes in making a difference. The cooperative invests in the community through initiatives like educational programs, youth scholarships and partnerships that support local growth. Its focus on innovation and renewable energy reflects a commitment to sustainability and a brighter future for all.
Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative’s work exemplifies the spirit of cooperation through fostering connections that strengthen the fabric of Irmo. Whether supporting local events or helping power businesses and homes, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative is proud to contribute to the area’s success and vitality.
Midlands Family Chiropractic: Caring for Irmo, One Spine at a Time
Midlands Family Chiropractic is proud to be part of the Irmo community, offering care that focuses on improving health and well-being for patients of all ages. From kids to seniors, Midlands Family Chiropractic provides gentle and effective chiropractic solutions tailored to everyone’s needs.
With a focus on whole-body wellness, the clinic helps patients address issues like back and neck pain, headaches and mobility challenges. The team believes in getting to the root of the problem — not just treating symptoms — so patients can enjoy lasting results and a better quality of life.
Midlands Family Chiropractic sees itself as more than just a health care provider — it’s a neighbor. The clinic is committed to serving the Irmo community, whether it’s through providing excellent care, hosting workshops to educate people about wellness, or participating in local events that bring the community together. At Midlands Family Chiropractic, the goal is simple: to help people feel their best and live life to the fullest.
For over 25 years, The New Irmo News has been a trusted voice for the Irmo, Dutch Fork and St. Andrews communities. As part of Lin, Inc., a locally owned chain of weekly newspapers, our mission is simple: to make our communities better places to live, work and grow. We achieve this by sharing the stories that matter most — those of families, neighborhoods, schools and businesses.
Founded in 1997, The New Irmo News was inspired by a desire to create a positive impact on every corner of our community. From spotlighting local achievements to covering events that bring people together, we are more than a newspaper; we are a partner in progress. Guided by values of service and integrity, we strive to keep our readers informed, inspired and connected.
Beyond reporting, The New Irmo News plays an active role in the community by supporting local organizations, celebrating achievements and fostering col-
The New Irmo News: Connecting Communities Since 1997 Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union: Building Stronger Communities Since 1936
laboration. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to evolving with the times while staying true to our roots: amplifying the voices and stories that unite us all.
For 88 years, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union has served the Midlands with a steadfast commitment to building stronger communities. Founded in 1936 by 10 Columbia educators with a vision of providing financial support to public school employees, the credit union has grown to serve eight counties, maintaining its dedication to integrity, teamwork and service.
Their impact is evident through their partnerships and community involvement. They proudly support the town’s new Skate Park and the Boardr Series skateboarding event, as well as engage in service days to assist local charitable organizations. Recently, they volunteered at Leeza’s Care Connection, helping with tasks like organizing storage areas and assembling a pergola for the patio. Their ongoing commitment to education is reflected in their support for local schools, including Lexington/Rich-
land District Five, honoring their roots as an organization founded by educators in 1936.
With more than 84,000 members and $1.3 billion in assets, Palmetto Citizens is proud to support the communities they serve. Through charitable donations, volunteer efforts and programs designed to help the underserved and underbanked, they continue to play an essential role in Irmo’s growth and sense of community.
Steve Padgett’s Honda of Lake Murray: Driven by Community, Powered by Excellence
Steve Padgett’s Honda of Lake Murray is a trusted part of the Irmo community, dedicated to providing reliable automotive services. The dealership offers an extensive selection of Honda vehicles alongside a variety of pre-owned options.
Their team also takes pride in maintaining a state-of-the-art service center. Using genuine Honda parts, they ensure vehicles stay in excellent condition, from routine maintenance to more complex repairs.
Community involvement is at the heart of Steve Padgett’s Honda of Lake Murray. The dealership hosts a variety of events, including an annual Trunk or Treat every Halloween which provides a safe and fun environment for local families. They also support charitable efforts
like Toys for Tots by organizing toy drives and show their appreciation for local heroes by hosting luncheons for first responders. Beyond these, the team actively sponsors other events that uplift and bring people together, including regularly hosting the first responders in the Irmo community for lunch and fellowship. With a commitment to quality and community, Steve Padgett’s Honda of Lake Murray is grateful to be in Irmo.
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Irmo First Responders Memorial
Irmo First Responders Memorial
The Irmo First Responders Memorial was erected in 2024 and is located in Irmo Town Park next to the Irmo Police Department. It is a heartfelt tribute to the courage and dedication of our firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel. (Photo/Elizabeth Jones)
Irmo Chamber Partner Directory
Important Phone Numbers
Vital Services
Emergency ..................................................................... 911
Fire Department (non-emergency) ....... 803-798-4979
SCDHEC (Health) ....................................... 803-898-3432
Irmo Town Police ...................................... 803-781-8088
Lexington County Sheriff’s Dept. .......... 803-785-8230
Richland County Sheriff’s Dept. 803-576-3000
Health Services
Lexington Medical Center Urgent Care 803-749-0924
Prisma Health Parkridge 803-907-7000
Prisma Health Parkridge Urgent Care 803-907-7500
Utilities
Cable
Spectrum ...................................................
866-874-2389
CenturyLink ................................................ 855-225-7105
Dish Network ............................................. 844-285-5934
Electricity
Mid-Carolina Electric Co-Op ...................
803-749-6555
Dominion Energy ....................................... 800-251-7234
Telephone Service
AT&T
Recycling and Trash Pickup
Capital Waste Services
803-832-0952
803-814-0040
Tyler’s Sanitation............................. 803-648-6714
Water/Sewer
City of Columbia Water Department 803-545-3300
Richland County Utilities 803-576-2094
Registrations
DMV (Ballentine) ......................................
803-749-9041
Lexington County Voter Registration .... 803-332-8361
Richland County Voter Registration ....... 803-576-2240
Business Licenses ..................................... 803-781-7050
Libraries
Lexington County Library – Irmo ........... 803-798-7880
Richland County Library – Ballentine 803-781-5026
Post Office
Irmo Main Branch (St. Andrews Road) ..... 803-275-8777
Lexington-Richland School District 5
District Office ............................................
Government
Town of Irmo
Lexington County
803-476-8000
803-781-7050
803-332-8163
Richland County 803-929-6000
Lexington County Council
803-785-8103
Michael Bishop, Larry Brigham, Beth Carrigg, Todd Cockrell, Glen Conwell, Todd Cullum, Clifford Fisher, Darrell Hudson, Charli Wessinger
Richland County Council .............. 803-206-8093
Tish Alleyne, Gretchen Barron, Jason Branham, Cheryl English, Tyra Little, Paul Livingston, Jesica Mackey, Chakisse Newton, Derrek Pugh, Allison Terracio, Dawn Weaver
Irmo Town Council
Mayor Bill Danielson .................................
803-781-7050
Mayor Pro Tem Erik Sickinger Councilwoman Phyliss Coleman Councilman Gabriel Penfield Councilwoman Barb Waldman
U.S. House of Representatives
Congressman Joe Wilson 803-939-0041
U.S. Senate
Sen. Lindsey Graham ............................... 803-933-0112
S.C. House of Representatives
Lexington – Jay Kilmartin ........................ 803-734-5049
Richland – Nathan Ballentine ................ 803-734-2969
S.C. State Senate
Ronnie W. Cromer......................................
803-212-6240
Russell Ott .................................................. 803-212-6140
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