Cayce City Councilman Tim James (Dist 1) is not running for reelection in the Nov. 4, municipal election. A large crowd came out to honor James, and thank him for his years of service to Cayce at Savage Craft Ale Works, Tuesday. James is also the President and CEO of the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber. He is leaving that post, also, at the end of the year.

“If you love what you do, you won’t work a day in your life,” James said. “I love what I do.” James also said he has had great teams working with him, who are committed to doing things the right way.  He said: “There’s more to come and he gives God the praise for his wonderful life.”  

US Rep. Joe Wison; SC Sen. Russell Ott; SC Rep. Micah Caskey; West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles; and Cayce City Council Members: Hunter Sox; Byron Thomas; and Phil Carter all spoke. Patty Rabon, a former City of Cayce staff member, who has known James for 43 years, also spoke. Former SC Sen. Nikki Setzler and County Councilman Todd Cockrell were in the crowd.

Rabon said: James was a Cayce Police Department Cadet at age 13. And he served in many public safety department roles before becoming police chief in 1998. “He made Cayce a better place to live,” she said.  

Rep. Wilson presented James with a Congressional Recognition plaque. Sen. Ott presented James with a State Senate Resolution and Rep. Caskey presented James with a Resolution from the SC House.

Mayor Miles said: “It’s hard to put into words all that Tim has done. And we’re thankful for all he’s done.”

Councilman Sox said: James has “been an inspiration and a mentor.” who has “forged great relationships. His leadership will be missed.”

Councilman Carter said: “It’ been my honor to serve with Tim.”  He said James is passionate, dedicated, and caring. And there is no one better for Cayce. 

Councilman Thomas said: James welcomed him immediately when he was elected. He also thanked James for his leadership and said James literally “took a bullet” for the the City of Cayce, in reference to an dangerous incident James was involved in with the police force.

Sen. Ott said: “You mean a lot to a lot of people.” And he said he is proud of the work James has done. Specifically, turning the C-WC chamber around. Rep. Caskey thanked James for his dedication and service to the community.