Press Release City of Cayce – The City of Cayce is pleased to announce Kendall P.  Adams as its new Deputy City Manager, bringing an extensive background in military  leadership, law enforcement, and municipal administration to the position. 

A retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, Adams offers decades of experience managing  complex operations, leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating resources, and  developing strategic plans. His background in both military and local government service  provides a strong foundation for supporting the City’s daily operations, advancing  organizational priorities, and helping ensure the effective delivery of services to the Cayce  community. 

Adams previously served as Assistant City Administrator for the City of Forest Acres, where  he provided leadership in municipal operations, logistics, and strategic planning. Having  transitioned from military service into local government, he brings a valuable  understanding of how disciplined operational management, collaboration, and long-term  planning can support a municipality’s continued growth and success. 

During his distinguished military career, Adams held leadership assignments in the United  States and abroad, including Belgium, Germany, Iraq, and Japan. Commissioned as an  Army officer in 2001 through the University of South Carolina ROTC program, he served in  multiple leadership positions, including Company Commander, Operations Officer,  Support Operations Officer, Executive Officer, and Joint Logistics Plans Officer. His  responsibilities included overseeing personnel and resources, coordinating complex  operations, and supporting military and federal law enforcement missions. He also  completed multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. 

These experiences developed the leadership, decision-making, and organizational  management skills essential to municipal administration. His ability to coordinate  operations across multiple teams, manage competing priorities, and plan for both  immediate needs and long-term objectives will be valuable as the City of Cayce continues   to serve residents, manage growth, and pursue its strategic goals. 

“I am excited to welcome Kendall Adams to the City of Cayce leadership team. Kendall  brings an exceptional combination of military leadership, public safety, and municipal  management experience, along with a genuine commitment to public 

Michael Conley, City Manager, “His background in leading complex operations, developing  people, and bringing teams together will be a tremendous asset to our organization. As we  continue to grow and work toward our priorities, I am confident Kendall will play an  important role in strengthening our operations, supporting our employees, and delivering  the high level of service our residents deserve. I look forward to working alongside him as  we continue building a stronger Team Cayce.” 

Adams began his public service career with the United States Marine Corps before serving  with the Forest Acres Police Department while continuing his military service in the South  Carolina Army National Guard. Following his retirement from the U.S. Army, he returned to  Forest Acres, where he initially joined the City through an internship before advancing to  the role of Assistant City Administrator. His career reflects a longstanding commitment to  public service and a practical understanding of the responsibilities and challenges facing  local government. 

His military service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Legion of  Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and multiple Meritorious  Service Medals and commendations. 

A South Carolina native, Adams grew up in Elgin, Camden, and Forest Acres and graduated  from A.C. Flora High School. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the  University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in international relations and  interdisciplinary studies from the University of Oklahoma. 

As Deputy City Manager, Adams will bring together his experience in strategic planning,  operational oversight, resource management, and public service to support the City’s  leadership and strengthen the organization’s ability to meet the needs of its residents. 

Kendall is married to Shannon L. Adams, and they have two daughters, Kyndal and Landyn.  The family resides in Columbia, South Carolina. 

The City of Cayce looks forward to the leadership and experience Adams will bring to the  organization as it continues working to build a strong, responsive, and thriving community.