The decade of the 60s began on a sad note. Jim Caldwell, Sr., the first executive director of the Association hired in December 1939, died on August 4, 1960, after a brief illness. "Mr. Jim" as he was called, served for 21 years and built a strong organization well respected by the member cities and the legislature. His son, Jim Caldwell, Jr., who had served as the deputy executive director, was promoted to executive director. In 1962, the Association moved from its first home at USC to the Columbia Building (Number One Main) directly across from the State House.
Legislative approval of significant changes in annexation laws dealing with the definition of freeholders, permanent funding for the USC Bureau of Research and Services, and creation of a state planning agency within the State Development Board were touted as legislative successes. The Association began offering its Trade Certification Program in 1965. Representatives of the mechanical trades requested the Association administer a single test to those applying for building permits in member cities. Prior to this, each city administered its own test.
The 1968 formation of the South Carolina Association of Counties brought more support for local government to the State House. Research, information, publications and training were the top goals for the Association, which continued to have 100 percent membership with 257 cities and towns as members.