News Summary
Tim James, the mayor pro-tem of Cayce, has decided not to run for reelection amid significant tensions within the city council and high turnover in key positions. His term, which began in 2020, has been marked by conflicts over funding allocations and governance dynamics. James expressed gratitude for his time in public service and emphasized the importance of leadership transitions. His decision opens new possibilities for Cayce’s local government as the council navigates its current challenges and prepares for upcoming elections.
Cayce – Tim James, the mayor pro-tem of Cayce, has announced that he will not seek reelection in the upcoming November election. His decision comes amidst significant tensions within the city council and high turnover in key city positions, including two police chiefs, two city managers, and a finance director, all of whom have left since July of the previous year.
James shared his announcement through a social media post, expressing gratitude for his health and dedication to public service. He emphasized the importance of knowing when to pass the torch in leadership roles. James has been in his current role on the council since being elected to represent district one in 2020, following a previous term from 2010 to 2015, before relocating to Florida for work. He returned to Cayce and was reelected in a special election three years ago.
The decision not to run again for his council seat comes at a time of conflict among Cayce city leaders. A key issue dividing the council has been the allocation of $44,000 in accommodations tax funding, which has been a contentious topic given that the council recently voted 3-1 to direct all accommodations tax money to the Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber of Commerce. This decision has raised concerns among other local tourism organizations, such as Experience Columbia and Capital City/Lake Murray Country, both of which had longstanding partnerships with the city. Critics have voiced concerns that this funding distribution could undermine their ability to effectively promote tourism in Cayce.
The tensions within the city council escalated during a meeting on July 8, when Mayor Elise Partin requested James to provide clarity on the chamber’s proposed budget. This led to a confrontational exchange, highlighting the growing divide among city leaders. Notably, James, who is also the president and CEO of the Greater Cayce West Columbia Chamber of Commerce, recused himself from the vote concerning the chamber’s funding to ensure transparency and uphold ethical standards.
In light of the ongoing controversies and the backdrop of leadership turnover—marked by the departures of both police chiefs and city managers—James’s decision to step back invites questions regarding the broader implications of council dynamics on local governance. City Councilman Hunter Sox praised James’s leadership and noted that his contributions have strengthened the city of Cayce, reflecting the mixed sentiments surrounding the mayor pro-tem’s legacy.
As James prepares to conclude his term, he has indicated that he will remain in his position at the chamber until the end of 2025. His exit from the council opens a new chapter for the city, as various stakeholders in Cayce will monitor the evolving landscape of local government and possible elections.
As this story develops, residents and interested parties in Cayce are encouraged to stay updated on the unfolding dynamics within the city council, as well as the potential candidates who may arise to fill James’s role in the upcoming election.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Cayce’s Tim James Won’t Seek Re-election
- The State: Local News Article
- Post and Courier: Cayce Council Tourism Funding
- WISTV: Cayce Promoting Deputy City Manager
- Google Search: Cayce City Council
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