Council also received public comments regarding rezoning, planned neighborhood amenities and homeowners association matters, while recognizing local leadership and discussing community initiatives during its Aug. 18 meeting.
A proposed mural for Gallery 537 and an ordinance addressing billboards and digital signs led discussion during the Camden City Council meeting Tuesday.
Council considered the proposed “More Than a Revolution” mural for Gallery 537 at 537 East DeKalb St. Members discussed the artistic quality of the design, its visual elements and how it would complement the surrounding area. Following discussion, Council voted not to approve the proposal.
During the public comment period, Gallery 537 owner James Austin spoke about the mural application and review process and shared questions regarding the proposal.
In a separate matter, Council carried over the second reading of an ordinance addressing billboards and digital signs to allow additional time for the preparation of proposed amendments. The ordinance will return for consideration at a future meeting.
Public comment also included remarks from two other speakers. Ronnie Fulmer discussed his property along Lyttleton Street and Railroad Avenue and a related rezoning request. David Galindo, a resident of Friendship Hill Farms, raised questions regarding homeowners association matters, including planned neighborhood amenities and property maintenance responsibilities.
During staff updates, City Manager Matt DeWitt discussed the Camden Fire Department’s mutual aid response in Fairfield County, where crews assisted during a large commercial fire. He emphasized the importance of partnerships among neighboring fire departments and the role mutual aid plays in supporting communities during major emergencies.
DeWitt then reflected on the success of Christmas in August, which was moved to the Camden City Arena because of inclement weather. He noted the event’s potential to continue growing as another family-friendly opportunity for the community to come together.
Turning to quality-of-life initiatives, Councilman Phil Elliott commended Camden’s beauty and suggested exploring an educational campaign encouraging residents and visitors to help keep the City’s parks, green spaces and other public areas free of litter. Mayor Sheheen noted that the statewide Palmetto Pride program may be able to provide resources or assistance with the effort.
Local leadership was recognized as the Mayor congratulated Councilman William Wilkes on being named the Transportation Association of South Carolina’s 2026 Board Member of the Year.
The honor recognizes his leadership and advocacy for public transportation in Camden and Kershaw County.
Looking ahead, the Mayor updated Council on efforts to increase the use of the Price House and African American Cultural Center following a meeting with City staff and members of the Price House Commission. Tourism Director Jenny Parrish will draft a proposal focused on programming and community engagement.
Mayor Sheheen also asked staff to review the Legacy Bench Program and recommend updates or other ways to recognize those who have made a lasting difference in Camden. In other business, Council proclaimed Sept. 14-20, 2026, as Diaper Need Awareness Week in Camden.
Quarterly reports from the Building, Fire, Finance, Human Resources, Municipal Court, Planning, Police, Public Utilities and Tourism, Marketing and Development departments provided updates on departmental operations, City services and ongoing work throughout Camden.
Camden City Councilman William Wilkes has been named Board Member of the Year by the Transportation Association of South Carolina (TASC), recognizing his leadership, regional advocacy, and work to expand access to public transportation in Camden and throughout Kershaw County.
Wilkes received the award Wednesday during the Transportation Association of South Carolina’s 2026 Annual Conference and Expo in Greenville.
Wilkes serves as the City of Camden’s representative on the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority (SWRTA) Board of Directors and currently serves as chairman of the board.
During his tenure, Wilkes has worked to strengthen transportation options not only within Camden, but throughout rural Kershaw County. Among those efforts, he helped garner approximately $60,000 in funding support for transit services in Kershaw County, a significant increase from the approximately $1,000 previously provided annually.
He has also been actively involved in advancing the King Haigler Express, Camden’s fixed-route public transportation service, helping promote the route, build community awareness and identify opportunities for continued growth and improvement.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this recognition, but the progress we’ve made at SWRTA has truly been a team effort,” Wilkes said. “I’m fortunate to serve alongside board members with an unwavering commitment to our region, and I’m grateful to my colleagues on Camden City Council for allowing me to go to Sumter and advocate for stronger public transportation.
“I’m especially thankful to Kershaw County Council. Their investment in rural transportation has allowed us to expand service across Kershaw County and reach more people who need it most. Transportation needs don’t stop at city or county lines, and neither should our efforts to meet them.”
“Councilman William Wilkes is truly deserving of TASC’s Board Member of the Year Award,” said Tanisha Gibbons, Executive Director of the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority. “His leadership, commitment and advocacy have strengthened public transportation in Kershaw County and made a lasting impact on the communities we serve.”
Wilkes has also pursued community partnerships to strengthen SWRTA’s financial sustainability, helping secure advertising and bus-wrap commitments from organizations including the Alpha Center and MUSC.
His work has included support for modernizing the rider experience through cashless fare-payment options and continued advocacy for transportation as a critical link to healthcare, employment, groceries, government services and other everyday needs.
The Board Member of the Year recognition highlights Wilkes’ hands-on approach to board service and his commitment to collaboration among municipalities, counties, community organizations, and regional transportation leaders.
The Transportation Association of South Carolina brings together public transportation providers, human service organizations, government officials, and transportation professionals from across the state to support training, collaboration, and advancement of public transit in South Carolina.
From celebrating those who give back to considering new ways to communicate with residents, the August 4 Camden City Council meeting reflected both the people who strengthen the community today and the decisions shaping its future.
Community service took center stage Tuesday evening as Camden City Council recognized an organization that has spent more than two decades turning a love of music and dance into meaningful support for its neighbors.
The Camden Lugoff Area Shag Society, better known as CLASS, received a proclamation honoring its commitment to philanthropy, fellowship and the preservation of South Carolina’s cultural heritage.
Since 2005, CLASS has donated more than $108,000 to nonprofit organizations throughout Kershaw County. Those contributions have helped local organizations provide food, healthcare and other critical services to residents who need them most.
Representatives from the Community Medical Clinic and Food for the Soul attended the meeting to thank CLASS for its continued generosity. Their remarks offered a reminder that the organization’s impact reaches far beyond the dance floor.
The evening’s celebrations continued with recognition of two young women preparing to represent Camden throughout the coming year.
Calissa Bowers was recognized as Miss Camden’s Teen 2027. A student at North Central High School, Bowers plans to become a business owner and certified public accountant. Her community service initiative, “Pieces of Possibility,” focuses on autism awareness, education, advocacy and support.
Grace Entzminger was recognized as Miss Camden 2027. Ensminger will attend Central Carolina Technical College before transferring to the University of South Carolina and plans to pursue a career in healthcare. Through her community service initiative, “Need to Breathe,” she hopes to raise awareness of lung diseases and support those affected by them.
As Camden prepares to move into a new City Hall next year, one resident has made sure the current building and the people who work there will not be forgotten.
Council thanked Bob Hunt for creating a detailed diorama of the current City Hall, complete with photographs of City staff. The piece will be displayed in the new building, carrying a snapshot of today’s City Hall into its new home.
That connection between Camden’s past and future was also reflected in the recognition of three employees whose combined 50 years of service have helped keep the City working each day.
Dale Harper of the Streets Department was honored for 25 years of service, Fire Dept. Capt. Jason Floyd for 15 years and Det. M. Wright of the Camden Police Department for 10 years.
They were joined by Director of Utilities and Public Works Jack Thornsberry, Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner and Police Chief Jack Rushing. Although each employee serves the community in a different role, their work affects the services residents rely on, from maintaining City streets to responding during emergencies and helping keep Camden safe.
The meeting then shifted to routine business, with Council approving all consent agenda items without objection. The agenda included Accommodations Tax Committee funding recommendations and a resolution authorizing the consumption of alcoholic beverages at Christmas in August. Council also reappointed Morton “Jay” Hudson and Travis Hall to the Planning Commission and Larry Graham and Linda Shaylor to the Board of Zoning Appeals. All four terms expire August 31, 2032.
Public comment brought another piece of Camden’s history into the conversation.
Joe Counts, speaking on behalf of the Gentleman’s Club of Kershaw County, asked the City to consider naming the street leading to the Camden train station in honor of the late Sidney Butler.
Looking ahead, Council gave initial approval to changes governing billboards and digital signs within the City.
The proposal would prohibit new billboards while creating a path for some existing billboards to be converted to digital displays. One proposal under consideration would remove two existing billboards in exchange for converting a third, located on the American Legion property near DeKalb Street and Chestnut Ferry Road, into a digital display.
For residents, the broader significance lies in how public information could be shared in the future. The changes would allow digital signs on property owned by the City, county, state and school district, giving public agencies another way to communicate timely information, community announcements and emergency messages.
The proposal must return to Council for a second reading before it can take effect. Before the meeting concluded, City Manager Matt DeWitt reminded residents that the Camden Police and Fire departments would join agencies from across Kershaw County for National Night Out, beginning at 6 p.m. at Woolard Technology Center. DeWitt noted that the event was also the reason Council convened at 5 p.m., rather than its usual 5:30 p.m. meeting time
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.
