Greer council hears first reading of NAICS business-license changes; members raise concern about local contractors

Greer’s council heard a first reading of Ordinance 25-2025 to update the city’s business-license class schedule to match NAICS codes required under the Business License Standardization Act (Act 176 of 2020). Mister Klein, who presented the ordinance, said there are six classification changes and that municipalities must adopt the class schedule by ordinance every two years.

Klein enumerated the changes: (examples discussed include reclassification of NAICS sectors such as mining and transportation/warehousing, and adjustments to professional and other services classes). Councilmembers questioned practical effects; one asked, “We don't have a lot of mining in Greer, do we?” and staff confirmed no local businesses are classified under mining.

Several councilmembers, including Arrowood, raised concerns that resident contractors who maintain offices in Greer must calculate license fees on all sales—including work performed outside the city—while out-of-town contractors competing for jobs in Greer may deduct fees paid to their home jurisdiction. Arrowood said he would like staff to explore relief options to keep local contractors competitive.

Administrator Merriman and staff noted that after the state action the city phased in changes in 2021 and that this first-reading action only updates classifications; any broader relief or rate changes would require a separate policy discussion and must stay within state law. Council asked staff to provide additional information between first and second reading on options the city could lawfully pursue.