At Tuesday morning's chamber meeting,  state Sen. Nikki Setzler reassured members that the chamber has endured difficult situations.

In its 63-year history, he cited the resignation of the whole staff and the weathering severe economic downturns.

Setzler said James is a great choice as he has the vision to lead the chamber.

"Let's work together to support Tim," Setzler said.

Thomas Tafel, the chamber's board president, expressed confidence in James and said "after much consideration" the chamber reached out to Jhim after former CEO Richard Skipper was dismissed.

James said he wants to be a strong and unifying voice for the Cayce-West Columbia business community.

He said the networking opportunities provided by the chamber are important.

James plans to attend public meetings as a representative for businesses that cannot be there .

He said he wants to work to keep expanding the economic impact of the area.

Chamber board member Tom Ledbetter told the Chronicle that the board has faith in James's ability to continue the chamber’s growth and maintain a high level of integrity. 
The chamber expects a seamless transition and good communications with the their new president and CEO.
Managing growth and maintaining a unified voice for the community is a high priority. Ledbetter stated that successful chambers focus on Main Street. 
The chamber has around 330 members.