During its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 7, Camden City Council recognized City Manager Matt DeWitt’s selection to the 2026–2027 South Carolina Executive Institute, approved several board appointments, deferred action on a proposed downtown mural and honored two Camden Fire Department Explorers for outstanding achievements.
Mayor Vincent Sheheen recognized City Manager Matt DeWitt for his recent selection to the 2026–2027 South Carolina Executive Institute, one of South Carolina’s premier leadership development programs for public sector professionals. Administered by the South Carolina Department of Administration, the seven-month program brings together leaders from across the state to strengthen executive leadership and strategic decision-making.
“I am honored to be selected for the South Carolina Executive Institute, one of the state’s most prestigious leadership programs,” said DeWitt. “This experience will provide valuable opportunities to gain insights from fellow leaders across South Carolina and bring new ideas and best practices back to Camden as we continue working to provide exceptional service to our citizens.”
While leadership was celebrated, City Council also addressed several items of City business. With no public comments received, members approved the Consent Agenda, including the reappointment of Claude Eichelberger to the Board of Directors of Wateree Community Action, Inc., as the Public Sector Representative. Richter Elser was appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a term expiring Aug. 31, 2030, while Granger Rabon was appointed to the Municipal Election Commission for a term expiring April 30, 2032.
During discussion of the appointments, Council Member Phil Elliott suggested reviewing the application used for board and commission appointments to determine whether additional background information on nominees would be helpful. Council agreed to review the application and consider possible revisions for future appointments.
Council also elected to defer action on the proposed “More Than a Revolution” mural planned for Gallery 537, 537 E. DeKalb St. The item will return at a future meeting to allow additional time for review and for questions or concerns to be shared with City staff and the property owners.
The meeting also included recognition of two members of the Camden Fire Department Explorer Program for recent accomplishments. Although neither Explorer was able to attend, City Council recognized Ashbee Mosley for earning first place as Fastest Female in the Individual Female Gear Donning Competition at the 2026 South Carolina Fire-Rescue Conference, where she competed against female Explorers from across the state. Jameson Dean Gideon was recognized for receiving the 2026 Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Silver Cadet Award in recognition of his outstanding character, leadership, citizenship, and service.
“It’s always the highlight of my job when I have the opportunity to recognize members of our department,” said Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner. “Ashbee and Jameson have represented our Explorer Program exceptionally well, and we’re incredibly proud of their accomplishments.”
Deputy Fire Chief Chris Tidwell added, “We are very proud of them both.”
Looking ahead, City Manager Matt DeWitt shared several community updates, including the City’s Christmas in July celebration on Saturday, July 25. The event will feature a holiday movie on Broad Street, snow machines, family-friendly activities, and the debut of the City’s new downtown lighting display.
Council member Phil Elliott also thanked City staff for their work in organizing this year’s Kids’ Fourth of July Parade, praising the event as a successful community celebration.
Before adjourning, Mayor Sheheen dedicated the meeting to the memory of former Camden Police Chief John Thomas Arledge, who passed away on July 2. He noted that Chief Arledge often spoke with pride about serving the City of Camden.
City Council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026.
Agendas and approved minutes are available at www.experiencecamdensc.com