Cunningham retiring as West Columbia city administrator

West Columbia City Administrator Jennifer Cunningham is retiring after 18 years in charge of the daily operation of city services.

Cunningham’s last day is March 1, ending 37 years as a city employee. Her retirement was announced Tuesday.

As the top appointed city official, Cunningham oversaw construction of the Riverwalk, a new City Hall, several beautification projects and a plan to redevelop a four-acre site overlooking the Congaree River.

“She felt it’s time,” Mayor Bobby Horton said, calling Cunningham a trusted adviser for elected city leaders.

Deputy administrator Brian Carter is in line to succeed her, although no decision has been made by City Council members. “He’s certainly qualified,” Horton said. “He’s the logical candidate.”

Meanwhile, former city councilman B.J. Unthank is returning to City Hall as the Lexington County community’s economic development director after losing a re-election bid in November.

This story was originally published February 9, 2016 at 11:01 AM with the headline "Cunningham retiring as West Columbia city administrator."