The Camden City Council met Tuesday evening to advance zoning updates supporting economic development, consider redevelopment strategies, and receive updates on public communication efforts.
Council approved second reading of an ordinance amending certain provisions of the City’s zoning code to allow Transportation Manufacturing Uses within the commercial district. The change is intended to position Camden to support related businesses and suppliers connected to Scout Motors, which is under development in nearby Blythewood.
City leadership explained that the amendment expands flexibility within existing commercial districts, creating additional opportunities for transportation-related manufacturing and associated uses while aligning with regional economic growth.
Council also considered a rezoning request for property located at 112 York Street. The developer requested the item be carried over to a future meeting, and Council approved the postponement.
In addition, Council gave first reading approval to a contingency purchase plan involving the Deluxe Motel property. City officials explained that a private developer is currently under contract with the property owner and intends to pursue a mixed-use redevelopment project. The City’s action establishes a backup purchase agreement in the unlikely event the private transaction does not close.
City leadership emphasized that the contingency is designed to prevent the property from remaining vacant or underutilized and to protect the long-term redevelopment vision for the corridor. Officials noted that the expectation is for the private contract to move forward, with the City’s measure serving only as a safeguard.
City of Camden Director of Communications, Dawn-Marie Johnson, presented a six-month update on the City’s public engagement efforts. Johnson noted that more residents are turning to the City’s official communication channels for timely updates, particularly during emergency situations and public safety events. Growth has continued steadily in the months following major incidents, signaling sustained reliance on the City as a trusted source of information.
Live video coverage and visual updates have played a central role in that connection, allowing residents to follow critical developments in real time and participate virtually in community events.
To make City Council activity easier to follow between meetings, the City launched Council Connect, a bi-weekly recap designed to summarize key decisions and updates from each meeting. Council Connect summaries are available at www.experiencecamdensc.com/news.
Johnson added that the City has adopted a website-first communication strategy, ensuring official information is centralized and archived before distribution, along with a monthly meeting calendar to improve accessibility and transparency.
Council member Elliott highlighted the strong turnout at the recent community tree planting event and ongoing progress at Scott Park, thanking residents for their involvement in planting dozens of new trees that will enhance public spaces for years to come.
Council member Delia Davis also shared that she and others from the City attended the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Leadership Conference this past Friday. Davis described the event as inspiring and emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and leadership development in strengthening Camden’s future.
Mayor Sheheen later reflected on a recent in-depth tour of the City’s wastewater treatment and water treatment facilities, noting that while these systems often operate behind the scenes, they are essential to daily life in Camden. He emphasized the professionalism and dedication of City employees responsible for maintaining these critical services and ensuring reliable water and wastewater operations for residents and businesses.
Council later entered executive session to discuss legal matters. No public action was reported following the session.
City Council meetings are open to the public. Agendas and meeting materials are available at
Camden, SC — The City of Camden welcomed a record number of volunteers on Monday for its Community Tree Planting Day, with residents of all ages gathering at Scott Park in the morning and City Arena Park in the afternoon to help expand the City’s urban tree canopy.
A total of 44 trees were planted, with two additional trees scheduled to be planted once ground conditions allow. The new additions include Black Gum, Holly, Nuttall Oak, and Dawn Redwood — species selected for their long-term environmental and aesthetic benefits.
The event brought together families, students, civic organizations, and community partners in a shared effort to strengthen Camden’s urban forest.
“We were overwhelmed and excited at the enthusiasm we saw in our volunteers who helped at Scott Park in the morning and City Arena Park in the afternoon,” said Kat Spadacenta, Community Development Coordinator for the City of Camden. “I can’t thank enough the individuals and organizations who took time out of their day to help improve the sustainability of our urban forest.”
The City extends special thanks to the Iota Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Camden High School SC Beta Club, and Trinity Methodist Church of Camden Youth Group for their participation and support.
This event was made possible through the Trees4SC program, a partnership between the Green Infrastructure Center and the South Carolina Forestry Commission, which assists communities across South Carolina in conserving and expanding urban tree cover. All participants received a certificate for a free tree to plant, as part of a community-wide tree giveaway on Saturday, March 14th at City Hall, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. All City of Camden residents are invited to register to pick up their very own tree through this link.
Community tree planting initiatives like this one reflect Camden’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.
At its February meeting, the City of Camden City Council recognized outstanding employee service, received updates on tourism and marketing efforts, and reviewed a strong financial audit reflecting continued fiscal stability.
City Council recognized David Enlow, Water Plant Manager, as Employee of the Month for January, with the award presented in February due to scheduling. Enlow was nominated by Director of Utilities and Public Works Jack Thornsberry, who cited his leadership of a high-performing water treatment operation that consistently delivers safe, reliable, high-quality water to Camden residents and businesses.
Beyond day-to-day operations, Enlow has played an integral role in major water system projects, including infrastructure upgrades and long-term system improvements. His hands-on approach has helped reduce service interruptions and strengthen overall system reliability, and council members noted his commitment to mentoring staff and supporting his team.
Directorof TourismJenny Parrish provided an update on tourism and marketing efforts for both the City of Camden and Kershaw County, noting that the majority of tourism activity and visitor engagement occurs within the City. Parrish highlighted the launch of The Camden Edit, a travel blog introduced in September that features curated content for visitors, including dining, arts and culture, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal features such as Black History Month. (To read The Camden Edit, click here: Experience Camden Travel Blog – Experience Camden, South Carolina)
Camden has gained national attention through recent media coverage, including a widely shared Travel + Leisure article naming the City a top small-town Christmas destination. (Full article available with this link: This Is the Best Place to Have Christmas in the South). The City was also recognized as South Carolina’s most charming town in a recent reader poll, further strengthening its reputation as a regional tourism draw. At the same time, growing social media engagement featuring local businesses and seasonal promotions continues to boost visibility drive traffic to the city’s tourism website.
During public comment resident, Scott Mechling, posed questions in regards to business license collections. City staff acknowledged the comment and noted that his questions would be reviewed.
Council also received the City’s annual financial audit presentation from Janet Pierce, CPA, of Cantey, Tiller, Pierce & Green, who issued an unmodified opinion, the highest level of assurance. The audit reflected increased revenues, reduced liabilities, and a strong cash position and operating reserves. The auditor commended City staff for professionalism, organization, and cooperation throughout the audit process.
Additional actions included approval of the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness, focused on strengthening coordination and collaboration among local service providers, as well as updates on finance-related task force work. Council also approved appointments to the Arts Center of Kershaw County Board of Directors, naming Councilman William Wilkes and Director of Tourism Jenny Parrish as City representatives, and approved first readings of zoning ordinance amendments related to transportation manufacturing and associated uses.
Council members closed the meeting by expressing appreciation for City employees and departments for their work during recent winter weather events, noting minimal disruptions, maintained power, and safe road conditions throughout the City.
The City of Camden invites residents to roll up their sleeves and take part in a Community Tree-Planting Day on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Scott Park. Volunteer planting sessions will be held from 9:00–11:00 a.m. and again from 1:00–3:00 p.m., providing multiple opportunities for community participation.
Volunteers will meet at Scott Park, 222 Battleship Road, before planting native trees at both Scott Park and City Arena Park. All planting locations will be prepared in advance, with tree holes pre-dug to allow volunteers of various ages and abilities to participate safely and comfortably. Light refreshments will be available.
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes. Gloves are recommended but not required, and those who have their own shovels are encouraged to bring them.
Tree planting is a practical investment in Camden’s future. Native trees help improve air quality, provide shade, support local wildlife, and enhance the long-term health of public spaces. Events like this also offer residents an opportunity to work side by side, strengthening connections while caring for shared community spaces.
As a thank-you for participating, each volunteer or family will receive a certificate redeemable for a free tree at the City’s Tree Give-Away Event on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
Volunteers are asked to register in advance to assist with event planning. Registration is available by scanning the provided QR code or by contacting Community Tree Advocate Liz Gilland at treelady2010@gmail.com.
This event is made possible through a partnership between the City of Camden, the Green Infrastructure Center, and the South Carolina Forestry Commission.
