Oak Grove Area Business Manager Todd Cockrell Running for Lexington County Council District 4
Meet Todd Cockrell: A New Face in Lexington County Politics
Business manager Todd Cockrell of the Oak Grove area has announced his candidacy for the seat of Lexington County Council District 4. Running against another political newcomer, realtor Doug Leonard in the forthcoming Tuesday primary, Cockrell steps forth into politics to fill the shoes of incumbent Debbie Summers, who after 20 years of service, is retiring at year’s end.
Cockrell: A Background in Business and Community
A longtime resident of the Oak Grove area in Lexington County, Todd Cockrell and his wife Kimberly live nestled between their community and the Town of Springdale. The couple, who have two grown children, possess a deep-rooted connection with their community. Kimberly, an active member of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD), often leaves at a moment’s notice with Todd to contribute their efforts to felony DUI hearings across the state.
Yet Cockrell’s community involvement is rivaled by his extensive background in commercial printing and marketing. Transitioning from his former role as the General Manager of Sun Solutions Grand Format, Cockrell made a lifestyle change to become the manager of KAMO, Inc.—a commercial cleaning equipment and chemical operation based in Columbia. HERE News Network.
Leadership with a Human Touch
Cockrell’s leadership style within KAMO, Inc. relays a strong, hands-on approach partnered with common sense, a passion for marketing, and sales. This approach extends to his commitment to customers, often personally delivering essential supplies to ensure their business operations run smoothly.
“I like to lead by example,” Todd recently told HERE News. Centered on common sense and practical problem solving, Cockrell believes his business acumen could be beneficial for Lexington County Council District 4. “Lexington County is just a large business,” stated Cockrell, “and problems like emergency services, traffic and road congestion, and housing shortages need to be at the top of our priority list.”
Priorities and Politics: Cockrell’s Vision for the County
Despite not being a politician by trade, Todd Cockrell dedicates himself to a no-nonsense, problem-solving approach that will benefit Lexington County. He acknowledges the demands and needs of the County but emphasizes the importance of differentiating between the two. ”No matter how you slice it, we are going to have to focus on these things,” he remarked. “Even if it means unpopular cutbacks, these items have to be given a lot of attention and the lion’s share of funding. As large as Lexington County’s budget is, I’m sure there’s some waste we can cut out.”
Efficiency through Experience: A New Approach to Council Leadership
Cockrell brings the efficacy and efficiency of his business experience to his vision for County Council leadership. With an emphasis on trust and transparency, he respects the knowledge of department heads and their ability to run their areas effectively, yet maintains a clear expectation for accountability and integrity.
The grassroots level of local government and specifically, the community of District 4, remains fundamental to Cockrell. “I’ll answer and return calls and emails in a timely manner. I feel as if part of my job will be as a guide of people through the red tape of government,” he stated.
A Low-Key Campaign Built on Common Sense and Community
Running a low-key campaign, Cockrell focuses his candidacy on his commitment to serving his friends, neighbors, and the wider Lexington County District 4 community. “Whether Doug or I win, we have some big shoes to fill. Debbie Summers is leaving a legacy we need to uphold and also confront the big issues we will inevitably face. On being asked to run, I committed to doing my best to serve and support the citizens of Lexington County,” Cockrell concluded.
If you have any comments, questions, or concerns about his campaign, Todd Cockrell welcomes you to contact him. He can be reached at (803) 665-0025 or by email at cockrelltodd@yahoo.com.
