Political coup against Irmo mayor fails

Irmo Mayor Hardy King survived a political coup Tuesday as an attempt to take away much of his clout failed.

A divided Town Council shelved a bid to strip him of control of its agenda and meetings.

The change sought lost 3-2 after some council members said it would be going too far.

Taking away that authority from the mayor would be “abusive and disrespectful to the office,” Councilman Paul Younginer said.

The outcome blocked a proposal that would have let King’s foes put one of their own in charge instead of the mayor as traditional.

Their effort came as Richland County deputies investigate the financially troubled Okra Strut after King raised questions about possible improprieties.

The inquiry stems from “frivolous allegations” that King raised, Councilman Barry Walker said.

It’s crippling preparation for the 42nd edition of the nationally known festival this fall, Walker said.

Opposition from the mayor led to Susan Hoots – wife of another council member – losing her job as festival administrator.

The probe didn’t stop town leaders from giving festival organizers $6,250 to help prepare for the gathering in September despite suggestions it’s premature until the probe ends.

Irmo is the third Midlands community to consider removing the mayor from being in charge, with West Columbia doing it but Chapin not.

Joining Younginer in opposition to the idea were King and Councilwoman Kathy Condom, with Walker and Councilman Harvey Hoots in favor.

This story was originally published February 3, 2015 at 8:48 PM.