Michael Conley, Cayce’s New City Manager, has issued a letter outlining his vision and goals. Read it below:

“As the new City Manager of Cayce, I am deeply honored to continue my service to this community that I have come to know and respect over the past several years. Having served as Assistant and Deputy City Manager since May 2022, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible dedication and talent within our team. My extensive background in local government, including roles in planning and administration across Kershaw County and West Columbia, has uniquely prepared me to lead and support our collective efforts as we continue to build a brighter future for Cayce.

Cayce is a city on the rise—a community rich in history, culture, and promise. While we honor our heritage as “Cayce by the River,” we are also a city brimming with innovation, creativity, and progress. With over 650 businesses now calling Cayce home, an expanding Innovation Center, and our recognition as the #1 Music Festival location in Lexington County, Cayce is quickly becoming one of the most vibrant, dynamic places to live, work, and grow a business.

My Leadership Philosophy and Vision for Cayce:

As City Manager, my clear priority is to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of the city we love. This is not just about today—it’s about planning for the future, while staying grounded in the values that have made Cayce such a special place. My goal is to empower every member of our team by providing the necessary resources to succeed, supporting professional development, and always listening to your insights and feedback. Together, we will drive Cayce toward even greater success by building on our strengths and addressing the needs that will shape our future.

What truly excites me about Cayce is its unique character. We are a thriving, up-and-coming community, balancing growth with a commitment to preserving our natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and the things that make us stand out. The spirit of innovation that courses through our city—from our cutting-edge Innovation Center to our award-winning cultural initiatives like the Soiree on State—sets the stage for the future while honoring our rich heritage.

Key Goals and Priorities for the Future:

1. Community Development and Housing Opportunities
   Our city’s growth must be intentional. As we plan for new housing opportunities and expanding our tax base, it’s essential that we develop Cayce in the right way—fostering sustainable growth that enhances the quality of life for all residents. We must balance development with the preservation of the natural environment and the unique qualities that make Cayce special.
2. Partnerships with Innovative Developers
   One of my key objectives is to continue building strong partnerships with developers whose vision aligns with our city’s goals. By collaborating with forward-thinking partners, we can ensure that our city’s growth is both innovative and responsible, and that we maintain a high standard of development that reflects our community’s values.
3. Incentivizing Business Growth
   Over the last few years, Cayce has made tremendous strides in attracting and retaining businesses. With over 650 businesses already established here, we are in an excellent position to further incentivize business growth. Whether through tax incentives, infrastructure support, or other programs, I am committed to exploring new ways to attract more businesses to our city, thereby strengthening our economy and providing more job opportunities for our residents.
4. Planning for Smart Infrastructure Investments
   A key pillar of sustainable growth is investing in infrastructure. While we’ve made significant progress, there is still much work to be done. As City Manager, I will prioritize strategic investments in infrastructure to ensure Cayce’s future is supported by modern, efficient, and resilient systems. This requires thoughtful planning, considerable resources, and a commitment to long-term success.
5. Public Safety Needs: Technology and Support
   Safety is a fundamental reason people choose to live and work in Cayce. I’m committed to ensuring that our Police Department (PD) and Fire Department (FD) have the resources, support, and technology they need to continue protecting our community. Whether through new technologies or training programs, I will ensure that our public safety teams remain equipped to meet the challenges of a growing city.
6. Updating City Ordinances for Efficiency
   To keep our city running smoothly, we must have the right legal structure in place. That’s why I’m committed to working with our staff and consultants to revise and update our city ordinances, ensuring that we have the tools needed to operate efficiently and effectively in a fast-changing world.
7. Zoning and Code Compliance
   Over the past few years, zoning and appearance have become key focus areas for our city. Strong zoning regulations and code enforcement are essential not only for maintaining the aesthetic quality of our city but also for supporting economic development. A well-maintained, attractive city encourages businesses and families to invest and settle here, boosting our local economy and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
8. Revitalizing Cayce Parks
   Our parks are integral to the well-being of our community. They provide spaces for recreation, connection, and relaxation. I am committed to revitalizing and improving our parks so they can continue to serve our residents and visitors as vital community hubs. By investing in our parks, we’re investing in our community’s health, happiness, and quality of life.

Looking Ahead

Cayce is a city that blends the best of both worlds—rich in history but forward-focused and dynamic. Our community is growing, evolving, and becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and work. As City Manager, I am committed to ensuring that this growth is managed wisely, equitably, and sustainably. We have an incredible team, a dedicated city staff, and a community that is ready for the future. Together, we will continue to build on our strengths, address the challenges ahead, and keep Cayce a place where families, businesses, and communities thrive for generations to come.

Let’s work together to achieve these goals and make Cayce the best it can be. Thank you for your continued dedication and partnership as we take on this exciting journey together.”

Michael Conley, Cayce City Manager

July 10, 2025