Partnership provides free transportation options to Camden City Arena during the early voting period.
Residents will have easier access to the polls during the upcoming early voting period thanks to a partnership between the City of Camden and the Santee Wateree Regional Transportation Authority (SWRTA), which will provide free transportation services through the King Haigler Express and additional door-to-door transportation options to help remove barriers to voting and encourage community participation in the election process.
“This initiative reflects what public transportation is supposed to do: connect people to essential services and expand access to opportunity. In this case, that opportunity is participation in our democracy. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and being part of your plan to vote this election season,” said Camden City Councilman William Wilkes, who also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors for SWRTA.
Residents will have access to two free transportation options for early voting at the Camden City Arena, located at 420 Broad Street.
Door-to-Door Service (Reservation Required) Available May 26 through June 5, excluding weekends, this service provides direct transportation from a resident’s home to the polling location.
Key details include:
Riders must schedule transportation at least 48 hours in advance
Reservations can be made by calling 803-775-9347, ext. 147
King Haigler Express Fixed-Route Service (No Reservation Required) Residents who live along the King Haigler Express fixed-route service area may also take advantage of free transportation to the Camden City Arena during the early voting period without the need for a reservation.
Service details include:
Dates of operation: May 26 through June 5, excluding weekends
Service hours: 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Destination: Camden City Arena, 420 Broad Street
Arrival time at Camden City Arena: Approximately :43 past each hour
Final departure from Camden City Arena: 3:45 p.m.
Route type: Fixed route with designated community stops
Please note: Following the early voting period(after June 5th, the King Haigler Express will return to its regular fixed-route schedule on Election Day, which does not include service to the Camden City Arena.
City officials encourage residents planning to use the door-to-door transportation option to schedule rides as early as possible to ensure availability.
For more information about transportation services, residents may contact SWRTA at 803-775-9347 or visit SWRTA.
Council recognizes historic preservation efforts, advances FY27 budget with no electric rate increase, and discusses future community investments.
At Tuesday night’s Camden City Council meeting, local preservation efforts and long-term community investment took center stage as Council recognized several organizations and individuals helping preserve Camden’s history while also advancing the City’s proposed FY27 budget.
The meeting opened with the City of Camden Historic Preservation Awards, presented by the Director of Planning and Development Shawn Putnam, on behalf of the Historic Landmarks Commission. The annual awards recognize projects and individuals making meaningful contributions to preserving Camden’s historic character and cultural identity.
John and Mary Jane Martin received the Adaptive Reuse of Historic Property Award for the transformation of the historic Hazelwood Cleaners building on Broad Street into the downtown brewery and gathering space. Present along with the Martins to receive the award was the staff of Greener Pastures Brewery, which operates inside the renovated historic property.
The Junior Welfare League received the Preservation Excellence Award for Nonprofit Organization for its longstanding Tour of Homes event, which continues to highlight Camden’s historic properties while drawing visitors into the community each December.
James and Rita Trivett were presented with the Community Impact Award for their continued preservation and operation of the Little Theater in downtown Camden, a longtime cultural landmark that has served generations of residents and visitors.
During public comments, Camden resident, Linda Kanatzar, spoke in support of the City’s ongoing water conservation efforts amid current drought conditions and encouraged leaders to continue being mindful about future growth and water resources.
Council then approved second reading of an ordinance annexing certain properties into the City through the 100% annexation process and assigning zoning classifications to the properties.
One of the evening’s major discussions focused on the proposed FY27 budget, which received first reading approval from Council.
City Manager Matt DeWitt presented the proposed balanced $66.8 million budget, which includes no property tax increase and no electric rate increase for the second consecutive year. The proposed budget includes a 2% increase in water and sewer rates, which officials noted remains below current inflationary trends and comparatively low among other municipal providers.
The FY27 budget includes continued investments in:
Road paving and sidewalk improvements
Public safety vehicles and equipment
Downtown redevelopment and tourism initiatives
Continued utility system maintenance and upgrades
City beautification – a new street sweeper
In addition, the proposed budget includes a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for City employees in an effort to remain competitive in the job market.
Council members discussed the challenges utilities face in managing rising operational costs while working to avoid rate increases whenever possible.
Following executive session, Council authorized City Manager Matt DeWitt to negotiate and execute a non-binding letter of intent related to the potential sale and residential development of the Midtown property. Officials noted the discussions align with the City’s broader planning efforts focused on encouraging walkable downtown housing and managing future growth.
Before adjournment, Council Member Delia Davis requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Jacqueline Greene-Stuckey, a respected community leader who led the SAFE CENTER and played a vital role at the Price House, recognizing her lasting impact on families and children throughout the community.
Council Member Hamilton Boykin also praised organizers involved in Historic Camden’s recent Evacuation Day Celebration and fireworks display, highlighting the community turnout and continued interest in the City’s Revolutionary War history and SC250-related events.
Mayor Vincent Sheheen also shared that he recently met with representatives from the South Carolina Philharmonic, who are interested in bringing a week-long musical initiative to Camden next spring. The proposed effort could include presentations in Camden schools and local businesses, along with community performances and street entertainment downtown. Mayor Sheheen said the City’s partners at the Arts Center of Kershaw County and Camden’s Director of Tourism, Jenny Parrish, would help guide future discussions and planning efforts.
The meeting concluded with Council entering executive session for a contractual discussion.
Residents asked to reduce non-essential water use as prolonged dry conditions continue across the Catawba-Wateree River Basin
The City of Camden is advising residents that the Catawba-Wateree River Basin has been placed under Stage 2 drought conditions following an extended period of dry weather across the region.
The designation was issued by the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group (CW-DMAG) under its Low Inflow Protocol (LIP). Stage 2 is the third of five drought stages outlined in the protocol and requires mandatory water conservation measures throughout the basin, which stretches from the mountains of North Carolina to the Wateree Dam in South Carolina.
The region is currently experiencing its ninth consecutive month of below-average rainfall, with many of the smaller streams that feed the basin and reservoirs reporting significantly reduced water levels.
As a water provider within the basin, the City of Camden is requiring customers to eliminate non-essential water use and limit discretionary uses, including lawn irrigation, to no more than twice per week during off-peak hours between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. In accordance with City ordinance, the goal during Stage 2 is to achieve a 5 to 10 percent reduction in overall water use.
Warnings will be issued for violations of the mandatory restrictions. Repeated violations may result in monetary penalties added to a customer’s water bill based on the severity of the violation and water usage. Continued noncompliance following a warning may also lead to disconnection of water service, with restoration conditioned upon payment of applicable fees and assurance of future compliance.
“As a member of the Catawba-Wateree Water Management Group, the City of Camden aims to raise awareness about increased drought conditions and help promote responsible water use during this time of extreme dry conditions throughout the entire drainage basin,” said Jack Thornsberry, Director of Utilities and Public Works for the City of Camden. “By requiring mandatory conservation efforts, we can help protect our collective water resources should drought conditions continue into the summer.”
Duke Energy, which manages lakes within the basin, has also begun implementing measures to help conserve water levels, including reducing downstream releases and limiting certain recreational flows. Lake users may also notice increased monitoring at public boating access areas, with temporary closures possible if water levels continue to decline.
The City of Camden, along with CW-DMAG partners, will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating efforts to protect the shared water supply and overall health of the Catawba-Wateree River Basin.
Residents with questions about water use restrictions or conservation practices may contact the City of Camden Public Works Department at 803-432-2421.
Photo Caption: Pictured left to right are Fire Chief Eddie Gardner, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Tidwell, City Manager Matt DeWitt, Council Member William Wilkes, Senator Allen Blackmon, Mayor Vincent Sheheen, Council Member Delia Davis, Senator Jeffrey Graham, Council Member Phil Elliott, Director of Planning and Development Shawn Putnam, and Director of Utilities and Public Works Jack Thornsberry during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new playground equipment at Boykin Park in Camden.
New playground creates expanded recreation opportunities for Camden children and families
The City of Camden officially cut the ribbon on upgraded playground equipment at Boykin Park, marking a significant investment in community recreation and quality of life for children and families.
The project was made possible through funding secured from the South Carolina Parks and Recreation Development Program, commonly known as PARD, with strong support from the Kershaw County Legislative Delegation. The new playground provides modern, safe and engaging equipment designed to serve children and families for years to come.
“This project represents our continued commitment to improving quality of life across our communities,” said Senator Jeffrey Graham. “Investments like this ensure that our children have safe, accessible places to play and that our neighborhoods remain strong and vibrant.”
“Investments like this make a real difference because they provide safe recreational areas,” said Representative Robert Reese. “This playground is about equity, opportunity and making sure every child in Camden has a place to play.”
Mayor Vincent Sheheen emphasized the City’s vision for continued improvement.
“Boykin Park is an important part of our community, and this new playground reflects our ongoing efforts to invest in Camden’s future,” Sheheen said. “We are grateful for the support that made this project possible.”
The City of Camden remains committed to enhancing public spaces and recreational opportunities, ensuring residents and visitors alike can enjoy safe, welcoming environments throughout the community.
Jenn Scuteri of the City of Camden has been awarded the 2026 HEY Award, or Hospitality Employee of the Year Award, by the Olde English District Tourism Commission for her exceptional work with visitors to Camden.
Scuteri was recognized for her dedication to hospitality, her commitment to welcoming visitors, and the positive impression she makes on guests exploring Camden and the Olde English District. Her work reflects the important role that front-line tourism professionals play in representing their communities and strengthening South Carolina’s visitor economy.
“It has been a pleasure working with Jenn to make visitors to Camden feel welcomed and at home,” said Kat Spadacenta, Camden’s Community Development Coordinator. “Whether it is a curated welcome packet, a warm email to visitors, or a friendly face at community events, Jenn brings a warm and professional presence that has helped Camden earn a reputation for true Southern hospitality.”
Rickie Good, Director of the Revolutionary War Visitor Center, also praised Scuteri’s service to visitors. “Jenn does a fantastic job working with guests and providing individualized recommendations for their trips,” Good said. “She is unfailingly welcoming and helpful to everyone who walks into the Visitor Center.”
“Jenn never shies away from a request for assistance – from visitors or colleagues – and she consistently goes above and beyond in fulfilling her role in serving those visiting Camden,” said Jenny Parrish, Director of Tourism for the City of Camden and Kershaw County. “Camden and the Olde English District are lucky to have a hospitality representative of Jenn’s caliber on our team, and we’re delighted she’s been recognized with this prestigious honor.”
The Olde English District Tourism Commission promotes tourism across Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union, and York counties. Through the HEY Awards, the commission joins tourism partners across the state in recognizing the people who make South Carolina a welcoming destination.
About the HEY Awards The Hospitality Employee of the Year Awards honor front-line staff in South Carolina’s tourism industry who demonstrate exceptional customer service and hospitality. The program is coordinated and co-sponsored by the South Carolina Area Tourism Regions and the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism.
An iconic artwork depicting the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill will return to public display in Camden as part of a special ceremony and battlefield interpretation site dedication.
The City of Camden, in partnership with the South Carolina American Revolution Trust, will formally receive a significant piece of Revolutionary War artwork during a ceremony on May 18 at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center.
The event will mark the official loan of Pamela Patrick White’s 2008 painting depicting the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill, which will be displayed at the Visitor Center for public viewing. The artwork illustrates Continental infantry providing cover for a cannon crew as they withdraw from the battle, capturing a pivotal moment in the second Battle of Camden on April 25, 1781.
Although British forces claimed victory at Hobkirk’s Hill, their evacuation of Camden on May 9, 1781, and retreat to Charleston marked a significant turning point in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution.
The program begins at 12:30 p.m., with a light reception following the ceremony. After an invocation by Rev. Dr. Paul A. Wood, Jr., Major General Julian Burns (Retired) will speak on the history of the painting and formally transfer the loan to Mayor Vincent Sheheen.
“We are very excited about this addition to the Revolutionary War Visitor Center’s exhibit,” said Rickie Good, Director of the Revolutionary War Visitor Center. “The display of The Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill and the new interpretation site for the battlefield will allow visitors to better understand the significance of the second Battle of Camden to the Southern Campaign. It is a painting that truly captures the desperate efforts by the Continentals on that April day. The efforts of SCART to return this painting, which was on display in Camden from 2008 until just a few years ago, back home to Camden were extraordinary, and we are thrilled that the Visitor Center will have it on display for the next several years.”
Prior to the ceremony at the Visitor Center, guests are invited to attend a ribbon cutting at 11:00 a.m. at the newly developed Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill interpretation site. Transportation will be provided via bus from the Visitor Center at 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Due to limited parking at the site, attendees are strongly encouraged to utilize the provided transportation.
Founded in 2023, the South Carolina American Revolution Trust, headquartered at the Historic Robert Mills Courthouse, works collaboratively with partners across the state to preserve, protect, promote, and perpetuate the stories, artifacts, and history of South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution. The organization plans to continue lending significant treasures to public institutions throughout the state.
The Revolutionary War Visitor Center, located at 212 Broad Street, is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The painting will be displayed in the Public House. Whether planning a day trip or a longer stay, visitors are encouraged to make the Visitor
Center their first stop to explore the many historical and recreational experiences available throughout Camden and Kershaw County.
For more information on the Revolutionary War Visitor Center and how to view The Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill painting, visit Simply Revolutionary. For more information on visiting the City of Camden, please visit www.experiencecamdensc.com.
