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Cayce council appoints James Smith as city attorney after divided vote
Summary
After an executive session on Dec. 2, 2025, Cayce City Council appointed James Smith as city attorney. Two council members recorded votes against the appointment while others supported it; public commenters had spoken earlier about the possible appointment.
Cayce City Council appointed James Smith as the city attorney following an executive session and a subsequent public vote on Dec. 2, 2025.
Council Member Alice Rose moved to appoint James Smith and Council Member Tiffany Aull seconded the motion. After discussion, Mayor Elise Partin voted in favor; Mayor Pro Tem Phil Carter and Council Member Byron Thomas recorded votes against the appointment. The transcript records Thomas saying he would vote no "not because of Mr. Smith because he had so much respect for him but he just wished the optics were different," and that he had concerns about transparency.
Two members of the public — Danny Creamer and Chip Salak — had used the public-comment period earlier in the meeting to voice opinions about the possible appointment (agenda item IX.A). The transcript records their appearing on the speakers list and speaking to the council but does not include longer verbatim statements in the public minutes.
Mayor Partin announced the reconvened meeting after the executive session and stated that no votes were taken inside executive session other than to adjourn and resume the regular meeting. The transcript does not specify an effective start date for Mr. Smith’s employment.
Council did not take further action on related personnel or contract matters at the meeting. The council adjourned at 8:28 p.m.
