Camden City Council Member William Wilkes has been elected Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, placing Camden in a key leadership role in advancing regional transportation and connectivity.
Wilkes, who was elected to Camden City Council in November 2024, is the first Chairman of the Board from Kershaw County since the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority was established in 1978. He will lead the regional authority in its efforts to enhance transportation services, improve accessibility, and strengthen connections between communities across the Santee Wateree region.
The Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority coordinates public transportation resources and works to expand mobility options for residents, supporting workforce access, healthcare connectivity, and regional economic development.
“I’m grateful for the confidence of my colleagues and look forward to working together,” Wilkes said. “Transportation is one of the clearest ways we expand opportunity. It connects people to jobs, healthcare, and the services they rely on every day. We are focused on making this organization stronger, more reliable, and better equipped to serve our communities across the region.”
As Chairman, Wilkes will work with regional partners, local governments, and stakeholders to guide strategic planning efforts and strengthen transportation infrastructure and services.
The SWRTA Board of Directors consists of members appointed by participating counties, municipalities, and other authorized appointing entities.
This milestone reflects the City of Camden’s continued commitment to regional partnerships that enhance quality of life for residents both locally and across the broader region.
For more information about the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority, including services, routes, and meeting details, visit www.swrta.com.
Council honors Johnny Deal for 15 years of service, advances infrastructure projects, updates golf cart regulations, and prepares for upcoming community events.
More than 15 years of service and thousands of hours supporting responsible growth in Camden led to special recognition for Johnny Deal, whose longstanding role on the City’s Planning Commission has helped shape Camden’s development.
Often described as both an ambassador and advocate for Camden, Deal was honored by City Council for his dedication, leadership, and consistent commitment to a role that rarely seeks the spotlight but plays a critical part in guiding the City’s future. His service, which began in 2011, was recognized with a certificate of appreciation acknowledging his lasting impact on the community.
William Browning shared plans for the Horse & Hound Expo, which draws thousands of visitors, is returning to Camden September 25–26, featuring dock diving dogs, spaniel demonstrations, canine agility, gun dog showcases, and equestrian events including hunter jumpers, polo, and dressage.
With continued support from hospitality and accommodations tax funding, organizers are expanding marketing efforts to attract more visitors, while reducing ticket prices to $10 for adults and offering free admission for young children.
Proceeds from the event support the Camden Hunt Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving more than 1,500 acres of historic hunt country and natural habitat just outside the City.
Modernizing how residents interact with utility services continues to be a major focus for the City, as Director of Utilities and Public Works Jack Thornsberry provided an update on the ongoing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project. Nearly 4,000 of the City’s 7,411 water meters have been installed, keeping the project on track for completion by late May. Installation of more than 12,000 electric meters is expected to begin in late April or early May, with full implementation anticipated by early fall.
Once complete, the system will provide real-time data, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the overall customer experience. City Manager Matt DeWitt noted the project will significantly transform how residents interact with the City’s electric utility system. Mayor Vincent Sheheen also emphasized that the City has not raised electricity rates this year. Thornsberry also shared that utility providers are expected to begin removing outdated power poles later this year following completion of ongoing fiber and service transfers, with a required waiting period before removal can begin.
Considerable progress is also being made on multiple infrastructure projects funded through the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program, representing a total investment of approximately $11.8 million. Work includes water main replacements across several key corridors, construction of a new 500,000-gallon elevated water tank, and development of a booster pump station, with approximately $5.8 million in work already completed.
These improvements address aging infrastructure while also preparing the City for future growth. The new water tank, located near the Kershaw County School District office, will help maintain consistent system pressure and support long-term development, while the booster pump station will improve water quality and reliability in areas that have experienced increased growth in recent years.
Council approved several items as part of the consent agenda, including temporary alcohol permits for upcoming downtown events such as CUP FEST and the 24 Hours of Lemons Downtown Block Party, along with a resolution directing the Planning Commission to conduct a required study related to potential impact fees.
Expanded access and increased safety measures are part of updated regulations for golf cart operation within City limits, which received final approval. Golf carts may now operate from daylight hours through 11:00 p.m., extending the previous timeframe to better accommodate residents. The ordinance also requires all golf carts to be equipped with properly functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals, and increases fines for certain violations to $250 to reinforce safe operation.
Council also approved first reading of an ordinance, amending provisions related to the Historic Landmarks Commission, establishing staggered terms and aligning the commission’s structure with other City boards and commissions.
The meeting concluded with a moment of reflection as Council recognized the passing of Ms. Betty Nelson Stewart, a dedicated community leader and longtime United Way supporter. Council members shared her lasting impact and the countless lives she touched through her service to the Camden community. The meeting was adjourned in her honor.
More information about the City of Camden is available at www.experiencecamdensc.com.
CAMDEN, S.C. (March 12, 2026) — Camden Police Chief Jack Rushing has graduated from the South Carolina Executive Institute, a statewide leadership development program designed to prepare senior public sector leaders to address complex challenges facing their organizations and communities.
The South Carolina Executive Institute is a comprehensive seven-month leadership program hosted by the South Carolina Department of Administration. The program brings together senior leaders from across state and local government for six intensive sessions focused on leadership development, strategic problem solving, and collaboration among public service professionals throughout South Carolina.
“I want to congratulate our Police Chief, Jack Rushing, on his graduation from the South Carolina Executive Institute,” said City Manager Matt DeWitt. “This program represents the very best in leadership development, and Chief Rushing’s commitment to continuing education reflects the professionalism and dedication he brings to serving our community each day. The City of Camden is proud of his accomplishment, and we are fortunate to have a leader who continually works to grow and better serve our residents.”
Chief Rushing’s completion of the program reflects his continued commitment to professional growth and to leading the Camden Police Department with excellence, accountability, and service to the Camden community.
This Call for Artists is modeled after the South Carolina Arts Commission’s standards and the City of Camden’s recently established Public Art Committee guidelines.
Request for Proposals (RFP): “More Than a Revolution” Mural at Gallery 537 The Camden Public Art Committee invites individual artists and artist teams to submit proposals for a mural at Gallery 537, located at 537 East DeKalb Street in the Downtown Camden Cultural District.
I. Project Description Location: Exterior wall facing west bound traffic on East DeKalb Street/U.S. Hwy 1, approaching the intersection of Broad Street/U.S. Hwy 521. Theme: “More Than a Revolution” A visual narrative blending the heritage and history of Camden, SC along with the strong artistic and cultural contributions of the community, with a highlight on music, particularly incorporating piano keys. Size: Approximately 32’ long x 20′ high. Project Fee: $7,000 – $10,000 (inclusive of surface prep, materials, and anti-graffiti coating).
II. Artist Eligibility Open to all professional artists 18+. Local Preference: Preference may be given to artists residing in Kershaw County, South Carolina or those with a demonstrated connection to the community.
III. Submission Requirements All applicants must submit a digital portfolio (PDF or via web link) containing: Letter of Intent: Specify your artistic vision for this blending of Camden’s history and cultural landscape. Annotated Portfolio: 3-5 images of previous large-scale public work. Concept Sketch: A preliminary visual draft of your proposed design. Itemized Budget: Breakdown of artist fees, materials, travel, and installation. Project Timeline: Phased approach for design, feedback, and execution.
IV. Selection Criteria Proposals will be evaluated by the Camden Public Art Committee based on: • Artistic Excellence: Strength of vision and technical skill (40%). • Thematic Relevance: Connection to Camden’s identity (35%). • Feasibility: Durability of materials and realistic timeline (25%).
V. Key Dates • RFP Issued: March 9, 2026 • Submission Deadline: April 8, 2026, 5:00 PM EST • Finalist Interviews: April 15, 2026 • Project Awarded: April 30, 2026 • Target Completion: September 30, 2026
Council honors a Camden police officer for service, proclaims Women’s History Month, reviews code enforcement efforts, considers a historic business marker program for downtown businesses, and advances updates to golf cart safety regulations.
CAMDEN, S.C. — During its March meeting, Camden City Council recognized a Camden police sergeant for his service to the community, proclaimed March as Women’s History Month, discussed efforts to strengthen code enforcement, and advanced updates to the City’s golf cart ordinance.
Council began the meeting by approving minutes from its previous meeting and adopting the agenda without changes.
One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of Camden Police Department Sergeant Grant Furry as the City’s March Employee of the Month. City Manager Matt DeWitt noted that the City’s employee recognition program is made possible through Mayor Vincent Sheheen’s decision to donate his mayoral salary back to the City to support the initiative, and this program would not be possible without his generous support.
Furry was nominated by Captain Justin Dill, who praised his leadership and dedication to serving Camden residents. According to the nomination, Furry has repeatedly gone above and beyond the normal responsibilities of his position, stepping in to assist citizens in situations that extend far beyond routine law enforcement duties.
City officials said those actions reflect the core values of the Camden Police Department — integrity, service, and professionalism — and demonstrate the type of community-centered policing residents value.
March 2026 was also proclaimed Women’s History Month in Camden, recognizing the many contributions women have made to the nation and to communities like Camden. Members of WIN (Women in the NAACP) were present to receive the proclamation on behalf of the organization and the broader community. The national theme for 2026, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” highlights women who continue to influence and strengthen communities. Mayor Vincent Sheheen thanked the women in attendance and recognized the important role they play in Camden’s civic life.
Director of Planning and Development Shawn Putnam provided an update on the City’s efforts to strengthen building inspections and code enforcement. Putnam explained that Camden is in the process of bringing building inspection services back in-house after previously relying on a private contractor following the retirement of the City’s former building official in 2023. Since this time, City staff members have been hired and are working toward state certification while the City continues working with a third-party firm during the transition.
Putnam also outlined how the City enforces property maintenance standards addressing issues such as dilapidated buildings, overgrown lots, abandoned vehicles, and signage violations. Code enforcement staff typically contact property owners first to resolve concerns, though cases can ultimately proceed to municipal court if violations are not corrected. Council members also discussed several properties where ownership has been difficult to determine as the City works to address ongoing issues.
Mayor Vincent Sheheen also raised the idea of creating a historic marker program for downtown businesses and buildings with historical significance. The plaques would allow visitors walking through Camden’s historic district to learn more about the people, places, and events that shaped the community. Sheheen noted that cities such as Charleston and Georgetown use similar markers and suggested staff explore potential costs and partnerships with local historical organizations before bringing the idea back to council.
An ordinance related to the potential redevelopment of the former Deluxe Hotel property on DeKalb Street also received approval during the meeting. The measure allows the City to serve as a backstop purchaser if a pending private development purchase does not move forward. City officials emphasized that Camden does not anticipate purchasing the property but approved the ordinance to provide assurance as redevelopment discussions continue.
Updates aimed at improving golf cart safety in Camden received first reading during the meeting, aligning local regulations with state guidance and strengthening safety requirements. Under the proposal, golf carts may operate only on streets with speed limits of 35 miles per hour or less and may not be driven on U.S. highways, though they may cross those roadways at designated intersections. Drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid license and carry registration and proof of insurance. This City ordinance comes following the passing of a similar county wide gulf cart ordinance.
Two amendments were added during discussion, including a requirement that golf carts be equipped with operational turn signals in addition to headlights and taillights, and an increase in fines for certain violations to $250. The ordinance will return for a second reading at a future meeting.
The meeting also included routine consent agenda items such as planning commission appointments, actions related to the City’s Landmarks Commission, and a resolution supporting loss-prevention measures intended to help reduce municipal insurance costs.
Planning Commission appointments were also addressed during the meeting. Westley G. Parks and Connie Rouse were reappointed to the Planning Commission, with terms expiring August 31, 2029. Randy Wilgis was appointed to fill an unexpired term, which will run through August 31, 2030.
Council also confirmed and ratified member terms for the Historic Landmarks Commission, including Jennifer Haunert (term expiring August 31, 2029), William C. “Rusty” Major (term expiring August 31, 2026), Karen Farmer (term expiring August 31, 2027), Lisa Frost Long (term expiring August 31, 2028), and John C. Boykin (term expiring August 31, 2027).
City Manager Matt DeWitt also shared updates on several upcoming events that will bring activity and visitors to Camden in the coming weeks. Residents were encouraged to participate in Irish Fest Camden, which will include events Friday evening and a full day of activities Saturday at the Camden Airport. DeWitt also noted that Cup Fest and the Carolina Cup are scheduled later in the month, events that traditionally bring thousands of visitors to the community.
The City Manager also highlighted Camden’s participation in the CarolinaBUY cooperative purchasing program, which allows municipalities to receive rebates on certain purchases. Camden recently received its first rebate payment of approximately $13,000, which the City plans to reinvest into community events and initiatives that support local traditions, strengthen the downtown experience, and help develop Camden’s culture.
Maintaining Camden as a clean and welcoming community was also part of the discussion, with council members emphasizing the importance of keeping key gateway corridors into the city well maintained.
Councilmember Elliott also asked staff to compile a comprehensive list of all City boards, commissions, and committees to improve organization and communication regarding upcoming vacancies. He also suggested scheduling a council work session in the coming weeks to review progress on previously established goals and discuss priorities as the City begins the Fiscal year 2027 budget process.
Adding to the conversation about Camden’s future, Mayor Vincent Sheheen shared that the South Carolina Director of Tourism recently visited the community and expressed enthusiasm about Camden’s tourism opportunities after touring several local attractions.
During council comments, members also recognized the passing of longtime Camden resident William “Billy” Nettles, a former banker who was described as a pillar of the community. Council adjourned the meeting in his honor.
CAMDEN, S.C. — Imagine downtown Camden on a warm evening. Families stroll down Broad Street after dinner. Children laugh at community events their parents once attended. Traditions are passed down. Memories are made. And the next generation chooses to call Camden home.
That kind of community takes intention.
The City of Camden will receive a rebate through its participation in the nonprofit CarolinaBUY, a cooperative purchasing program that allows public agencies to save time and money while remaining compliant with state purchasing requirements.
City Manager Matt DeWitt enrolled Camden in the program to strengthen operational efficiency while creating opportunities for reinvestment. As the City advances necessary infrastructure projects, including the AMI initiative, participation in the nonprofit CarolinaBUY allows a portion of those expenses to return to the community.
The City will direct these funds into local events and shared experiences that build civic pride and strengthen community culture.
“Our participation in the CarolinaBUY program allows everyday purchases to create meaningful reinvestment right here at home,” DeWitt said. “These shared traditions matter. They help ensure the next generation not only values where they came from but chooses to come home and build their future right here.”
CarolinaBUY serves as the dedicated lead agency of AEPA, the Association of Educational Purchasing Agencies, in North and South Carolina. Through nationally solicited contracts, the program provides competitive pricing, compliance, and access to a broad range of vetted vendors.
Kat Spadacenta, Community Development Coordinator for the City, said the reinvestment strengthens efforts to build lasting traditions.
“The City has made investments in recent years to enhance the holiday season in Camden, earning a reputation as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas,” Spadacenta said. “We hope residents and visitors alike will create special memories here during the holidays. We are working to restore some of that nostalgia from years ago, from additional lighting in our downtown commercial district to snowy evenings at the tree, inviting families to celebrate being together in a unique and meaningful way.”
Those efforts also play a key role in shaping how Camden is experienced year-round by residents and visitors alike.
“Events and traditions are more than celebrations. They are powerful drivers of community identity and economic impact,” said Jenny Parrish, Director of Tourism. “When we invest in experiences that bring people together, we create reasons for visitors to return and for residents to stay engaged. Cooperative purchasing allows us to be good stewards of public dollars while enhancing the very things that make Camden special.”
By leveraging cooperative purchasing, Camden is strengthening fiscal responsibility while investing in the experiences that define community life.
Pictured from left to right: Assistant City Manager Caitlin Young; City Manager Matt DeWitt; Outreach Ambassador for CarolinaBUY Ann-Marie Schell; Director of Tourism Jenny Parrish; and Community Development Coordinator Kat Spadacenta.
