In a recent mailing prepared for the City of Camden, TSG, the City’s print provider, inadvertently printed incorrect information on the Late Notice notifications. The City of Camden processed and transmitted the file correctly, and the proof was provided, reviewed, and approved in accordance with established procedures. All City processes were handled appropriately. The error occurred during the printing process at the print facility as a result of human error. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this matter has caused. This incident is not a reflection of the City of Camden’s ability to manage and handle data accurately. The error was the result of the print operator not following established procedures, and corrective action has been taken.
As a result of this incident, additional procedures have been implemented at the print facility to provide an added level of verification for the accuracy of information prior to mailing. Again, we extend our sincere apologies to all individuals affected by this printing error.
The City of Camden is proud to announce that Camden Police Chief Jack Rushing has graduated from the FBI National Command Course at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Established in 2020, the highly competitive program brings together law enforcement chief executives from agencies with fewer than 50 sworn officers across the United States. Participants receive advanced instruction in modern leadership, strategic decision-making, and organizational management.
At the heart of the National Command Course is the belief that strong organizations are built through strong relationships. In addition to leadership and strategic development, the program provides participants with an opportunity to build a trusted national network of law enforcement executives who can continue learning from and supporting one another long after the course concludes.
“I gained far more than leadership development last week; I worked with a trusted network of professionals who became lifelong resources and friends. I left a better leader because of the people I had the opportunity to learn with and learn from,” Chief Rushing said.
He added, “The incredible FBI instructors and staff, Corey, Shauna, Tina and Stephanie, went above and beyond to ensure every detail was taken care of, allowing us to focus entirely on learning and collaboration.”
The knowledge, professional relationships and leadership experience Chief Rushing gained through the program will continue to strengthen the Camden Police Department and its service to the community.
“Our community is incredibly fortunate to have a police chief who is committed to continuous learning and professional excellence,” said Camden City Manager Matt DeWitt. “Graduating from the FBI National Command Course is a remarkable achievement that reflects Chief Rushing’s dedication to leadership and public service and will make our community safer and better served. On behalf of the City, I congratulate Chief Rushing on this well-deserved accomplishment and thank him for his unwavering commitment to our citizens.”
CAMDEN, S.C. – Camden City Manager Matt DeWitt has been selected to participate in the 2026–2027 South Carolina Executive Institute, one of the state’s premier leadership development programs for senior public sector executives.
Administered by the South Carolina Department of Administration, the South Carolina Executive Institute brings together a select group of leaders from across the state for an intensive seven-month leadership development program. Designed to strengthen executive leadership skills, the institute provides participants with advanced coursework, collaboration with fellow public sector leaders, and practical strategies for leading high-performing organizations.
Over the course of seven months, DeWitt will participate in sessions alongside public sector executives from across South Carolina, gaining new strategies and perspectives to help strengthen the City of Camden’s continued commitment to exceptional public service.
“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.”
Mayor Vincent Sheheen said DeWitt’s selection is a reflection of his leadership and dedication to the City of Camden.
“Matt’s selection for the South Carolina Executive Institute is a well-deserved honor,” said Mayor Sheheen. “He has demonstrated a strong commitment to serving our community and continually seeking ways to improve the services we provide. I am confident the knowledge and relationships he gains through this program will continue to benefit the City of Camden for years to come.”
The South Carolina Executive Institute is considered one of the state’s most respected professional development opportunities for public sector executives. Participants are selected competitively based on their leadership potential and commitment to advancing excellence in public service.
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.
The cutest parade in Kershaw County is getting a “sestercentennial-sized” glow up! Kids from all across Kershaw County are invited to show off their patriotic spirit, decorating bicycles, scooters, and wagons and wearing their red, white, and blue as we celebrate the 10th Annual Kids’ 4th of July Parade, in partnership with Books on Broad, and America’s 250th Birthday!
Festivities begin at Camden City Hall at 9:30 am, with balloons and decorations handed out by the Camden Fire Department and the Hobkirk Hill chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, to help spruce up the bikes and other non-motorized vehicles. A short program will begin at 10:15, and the parade starts at 10:30 am. This is a free event open to the community. For the safety of all participants, motorized vehicles (electric or gas powered) are not allowed, and children 10 and under must be escorted by an adult.
A special addition to this year’s program will be the 250th anthem composed by Ike Pitts, Director of Music at Grace Episcopal Church and performed by students in the Kershaw County School District’s Arts Arising program, which takes place each summer at the Arts Center of Kershaw County.
This year, the parade will march to Camden City Arena, 420 Broad Street, for a community-wide celebration of our nation’s independence, on the 250th anniversary. All our welcome, as you enjoy live music from the BunchQuitters, playing Americana and bluegrass tunes, and other entertainment, free refreshments, and more family fun – in partnership with community organizations such as the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, Daughters of the American Revolution, Col. Joseph Kershaw Chapter of the South Carolina Society Sons of the American Revolution, the Kershaw County Library, Camden Junior Welfare League, and more. Free snow cones will be available to all parade participants. Looking to join in on the fun? Spaces at City Arena are still available to organizations wanting to hand out free giveaways or offer family-friendly activities. No vendors please. Email kspadacenta@camdensc.org for information.
The excitement surrounding America’s 250th anniversary is well underway. The Kershaw County 250th Committee and DAR are sponsoring a decorating contest for homes and businesses, along with a countywide scavenger hunt highlighting some of Kershaw County’s most significant historic sites. Learn more about both activities on the 250th Committee’s Facebook page at facebook.com/kc250th.
The parade is sponsored by Books on Broad and Coffee and the City of Camden.
