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Irmo council advances 3% local accommodations tax in 4–1 first reading vote
Summary
On first reading the Town of Irmo advanced Ordinance 2605 to impose a 3% local accommodations tax dedicated to tourism‑related expenses; council staff estimated roughly $120,000 annually. The measure cleared first reading on a 4–1 vote, with Mr. Pinfield opposed.
The Town of Irmo council advanced Ordinance 2605 in a first reading vote on March 17, 2026, to establish a 3% local accommodations tax. Council members were told revenues would be restricted to tourism‑related expenses and staff estimated the tax could generate approximately $120,000 a year for events and park/tourism initiatives.
During discussion, council members noted the tax targets visitors and short‑term accommodations rather than local residents' everyday expenses. The council also discussed that the revenue is earmarked for tourism and cannot be used to fund general‑purpose expenditures such as road paving or staff raises.
On roll call the first reading passed 4–1, with the clerk recording a 'no' vote by Mr. Pinfield. The mayor and the other councilmembers voted yes. The ordinance will return for a subsequent reading as required by town procedure.
If adopted, the tax would be collected from lodging transactions within town limits and placed into a restricted line item for tourism and events, per staff explanation to council.
