Irmo council approves first reading of ordinance adding confidentiality rules for officials

The Town of Irmo council voted on Nov. 18 to approve the first reading of Ordinance 25-15, a staff-drafted amendment that would add confidentiality clauses to Chapter 2 of the municipal code and bar officers and employees from disclosing executive-session information to third parties.

Supporters described the measure as codifying an understood duty. “To me, basically, this is an understood principle that we should all be following, but I think it's good to put it in writing and put it into our ordinances,” said Councilwoman Walden during discussion. Staff said the amendment is part of routine housekeeping as the town increasingly handles economic-development and utility negotiations that require confidentiality.

Town Administrator Jim Crossland told the council the changes are “general housekeeping ordinances” intended to clarify expectations for project managers and developers who may be discussed in executive session. Crossland said the language reflects the town’s desire to protect sensitive negotiations, including relocation and incentive discussions with potential businesses.

The council opened the item for discussion, took a motion and approved the ordinance on first reading by roll call. The first reading does not by itself adopt the ordinance; additional steps are required before a final ordinance would be enacted.

The council did not cite a specific enforcement mechanism or penalty in the discussion; that information is contained in the draft ordinance on file with town staff.