The City of Camden Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Camden Condos on Mattison Street at approximately 9:43 a.m. this morning. The fire has been contained, and crews are now conducting salvage and overhaul operations to identify and extinguish any remaining hotspots.
All occupants of the building were safely evacuated and accounted for, and no injuries to residents or firefighters have been reported. Animal Control also responded to assist, and all pets have been accounted for.
The affected building contains eight units, with approximately four units sustaining significant fire damage. The remaining units may have experienced smoke or water damage. As a precaution, power to the entire building has been shut off, and those units will not be immediately habitable. The fire was contained to a single building within the complex, and no other buildings were impacted or require evacuation.
Assisting agencies included Camden Fire Department, Kershaw County Fire Service, Kershaw County EMS, Lugoff Fire Department, Camden Police Department, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, and Kershaw County Animal Control.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Officials have not yet determined the origin and are awaiting further assessment. Investigators, including SLED, will be on site as part of the ongoing investigation.
Road closures remain in effect along Wilder Street and Mattison Street between Goodale Street and Lovett Street. These closures are expected to continue for at least several more hours. Water service to the immediate area was temporarily shut off during the response but is expected to be restored shortly now that the fire is contained. Emergency crews will remain on scene throughout the day.
Residents and motorists are asked to continue avoiding the area to allow emergency personnel and investigators to work safely.
City officials will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Free outdoor concerts return to Downtown Camden on select Thursdays in April and May, featuring live music, local favorites, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The beloved Blankets & Bands free concert series returns to Town Green this spring, bringing live music, community, and warm evenings to Downtown Camden. Performances will take place on Thursdays, April 9 and 23, and May 7 and 21, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, gather with friends and family, and enjoy an evening of live entertainment in the heart of Camden. Pack a picnic or grab takeout from one of Camden’s local restaurants and make it a night.
The series kicks off on Thursday, April 9, with the smooth sounds of The Esquires, offering a mix of timeless favorites that are sure to get the crowd grooving.
On April 23, Blankets & Bands welcomes Phil James & the Fast Lane to the stage for the first time, delivering high-energy 90s hits filled with fun and nostalgia.
Thursday, May 7 features Nigel Grant & Friends, bringing a lively mix of funk and feel-good tunes to keep the energy high.
The spring series wraps up on Thursday, May 21, with long-time local favorite Landslide, known for their signature blend of smooth classic rock.
Each concert will feature a student or young musician as the opening act, with the headlining band beginning at 6:30 p.m. Beer and wine are permitted on Town Green during concert hours. Glass containers are not allowed.
In the event of inclement weather, updates and cancellations will be shared on the City’s website and official social media channels.
Blankets & Bands is a partnership between the Downtown Camden Cultural District and the Arts Center of Kershaw County, offering free, live music to the community each spring and fall.
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.
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.
