CAMDEN, SC — The December City Council meeting was filled with recognition for excellence and outstanding service, highlighted by the naming of a longtime Public Works employee as Employee of the Month and statewide honors for the Camden Police Department.
A longtime Public Works employee who stands out for saving the City money through his hands-on problem solving was named Employee of the Month. City Manager Matt DeWitt recognized Robbie Truesdale, whose two decades of service and ability to troubleshoot issues on the spot often eliminate the need for outside contractors. DeWitt described him as a dependable, highly skilled member of the team.
“Robbie is a true jack-of-all-trades who consistently goes above and beyond,” DeWitt said. “It’s employees like him who make this a great place to work.”
Truesdale received the Employee of the Month award along with a 20-year service pin and bonus as part of the City’s new longevity recognition program. Public Works Director Jack Thornsberry joined the presentation as DeWitt highlighted the department’s continued efforts to serve residents efficiently.
The council also recognized employees reaching significant service milestones, highlighting their dedication and contributions to the City. Sergeant Carl Smith, widely known as a downtown ambassador, marked 15 years with the police department following more than three decades in law enforcement. John Lyles, recognized for his steady work ethic and positive attitude, and Lt. Keith Norris, frequently seen representing the department at community events, each celebrated five years of service. Michael Bateman, celebrating 5 years with the Fire Department, accepted his pin with his young daughter present.
Seven additional employees who could not attend were acknowledged for their long-term commitment, including Charles Drakeford, with 25 years in Water and Sewer; David Enlow, 20 years at the water plant; Ty Smith, 15 years with Wastewater; and Oliver Ellerbe, who reached 10 years in Sanitation, and Tristan McCreadie, 5 years with the Fire Department. These recognitions underscore the City’s ongoing commitment to honoring employees whose work supports Camden’s operations and community every day.
Continuing the evening’s focus on excellence and recognition, a major highlight came when Amanda White, statewide forensic nurse coordinator for the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network, presented the Camden Police Department with a SAFE Designation for its work in responding to sexual assault and human trafficking cases. Camden is now one of the first 10 agencies in the state to earn this voluntary certification, which honors departments that exceed standard requirements in trauma-informed response, evidence handling, and victim safety.
“Agencies participate because they want to provide the best possible care,” White said, commending the department’s dedication to supporting victims. Council members and police personnel gathered for a commemorative photograph to mark the achievement, underscoring Camden’s commitment to both community service and professional excellence.
In other business, council members returned a proposed mural at Gallery 537 to the Arts Committee for further collaboration with the building owner, emphasizing the importance of ensuring public art aligns with the city’s long-term aesthetic vision.
The council also advanced an ordinance to annex the Springfield Healthcare Facility on Battleship Road, a move city officials said will improve utility service, signage, and public safety coverage for the facility.
In brief action, members approved revisions to the city’s firearms ordinance and granted final approval for a new shoe repair and shine business at 1038 Broad Street.
City Manager Matt DeWitt provided updates on several ongoing projects, noting that the City is upgrading downtown rooftop lighting with commercial-grade systems designed to better withstand severe weather. He also announced that the annual tree lighting ceremony has been moved to Thursday due to forecasted rain. On Friday, the City will plant two trees behind City Hall in recognition of South Carolina Arbor Day, honoring the dedication, sacrifice, and everyday heroism of Camden’s first responders.