Winter Small Business Workshops at Camden Library Branch
Camden, SC – (December 19, 2025) City of Camden Community Development Coordinator Katharine Spadacenta continues the winter small business workshop series again in 2026, in partnership with the Kershaw County Library. These four workshops throughout January and February are meant for small business owners, entrepreneurs, self-employed workers, and any member of the public wishing to attend. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. All workshops are free to attend in person at the Camden Library Branch, 1304 Broad Street.
January 13 – Small Business Tax Workshop – Struggling to understand what tax liability means for you and your small business? Small business consultant Jeffrey Cooper will lead participants through a discussion of what you need to keep record of and what different business structures are responsible for when it comes to the IRS. Bring a notebook or a laptop to this workshop.
January 29 – Increasing Cash Flow, Managing Debt – For self-employed and sole proprietors, your money is often your business money. Learn strategies to make your money work harder for you and build lasting wealth. Health and Wealth Educator Kryshonda Torres leads this workshop.
February 10 – Proper Protection – For sole proprietors and self-employed, this workshop will equip you with knowledge to confidently safeguard your income, family, and legacy. Health and Wealth Educator Kryshonda Torres will guide you through essential life, disability, and long-term care coverage options in this workshop.
February 26 – Marketing on a Budget – Making sure people know where to find you and keep your business top of mind by using social media tools that give your business the most bang for your buck. Bring a laptop or tablet to this workshop, led by Community Development Coordinator Kat Spadacenta.
For more information, visit www.experiencecamdensc.com.
CAMDEN, SC – The City of Camden, South Carolina, is inviting qualified Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) firms to submit Statements of Qualifications and Proposals to provide pre-construction and construction services for two high-priority municipal projects.
The projects include:
Renovating and converting the old First Palmetto Bank building into the new Camden City Hall.
Converting the front half of the current City Hall into the new Camden Police Department, while upgrading the rear half of the building to support the City of Camden Fire Department.
The selected CMAR firm will collaborate closely with the City and project stakeholders to ensure both projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and meet all applicable codes and performance standards.
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.
Camden, SC — The City of Camden observed its annual Arbor Day Celebration Friday, December 5th, bringing residents, officials, and community partners together for a ceremony dedicated to the City’s first responders. While inclement weather forced the event indoors at Camden Fire Department Station 1, the celebration proceeded with full attendance and a strong message of gratitude.
Mayor Vincent Sheheen opened the program with welcoming remarks, followed by the Presentation of Colors by the Camden High School JROTC Color Guard and the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilmember Phil Elliott delivered the invocation, offering reflection on the vital role first responders play in safeguarding the community.
Ann Huyler of the South Carolina Forestry Commission provided historical context on Arbor Day’s origins in South Carolina, underscoring its long-standing emphasis on conservation and community well-being. Mayor Sheheen later issued the city’s official Arbor Day Proclamation, reaffirming Camden’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
City Manager Matt DeWitt spoke to the purpose behind this year’s dedication, noting the often-unseen work of Camden’s police, fire, EMS, and dispatch staff.
“Our first responders show up for this community on its best days and its hardest days,” DeWitt said. “Planting these trees is a small but meaningful way to recognize the work they do that often goes unseen. Their dedication helps Camden stay strong, connected, and moving in the right direction, and we’re grateful for every one of them.”
Although weather conditions altered the location of the ceremony, they did not prevent the City from completing its annual planting. A Southern Red Oak and an American Elm—chosen for their durability, longevity, and symbolic connection to resilience—were planted to honor Camden’s first responders.
The ceremony concluded with remarks from Parks & Trees Commission members Bob Williams and Barb Willens, who emphasized the City’s ongoing dedication to preserving and expanding its urban tree canopy. Event partners including First Class Landscaping, the Camden Tree Foundation, the Camden Parks & Trees Commission, and City of Camden staff were recognized for their contributions.
Camden’s Arbor Day observance continues to serve as a reminder of the City’s commitment to honoring public service while investing in a healthy and sustainable community landscape.
Notice is hereby given of a public hearing to be conducted by the City of Camden Planning Commission in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1000 Lyttleton Street, Camden, South Carolina on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 6:15 PM for the purpose of obtaining public comments concerning rezoning of the following property:
402 Bishopville Highway – Tax Map Number C286-00-00-019
The request is to rezone property from R-15 to R-E. Documentation regarding this request is available for public review at City Hall.
• Amendments to Sections 157.094(B)(12) and 157.095(B)(9) to remove slab on grade foundations as an allowable foundation type for residential units
Copies of the proposed ordinance amendments and rezoning request documentation are available for public review at the Planning & Development Department at City Hall or in the agenda packet posted here. Anyone having questions about the rezoning, needing assistance due to sight impairment hearing impairment, or disability should contact Shawn Putnam at 432-2421 prior to the date of the meeting so that arrangements can be made to provide the specific assistance required.
Another public hearing will be conducted by the Planning Commission in the Council Chambers on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:15 PM for the purpose of obtaining public comments concerning rezoning of the following property:
2200 Carter Street – Tax Map Number C270-00-00-013
The request is to rezone property from R-15 to RE. Documentation regarding this request is currently available for public review at City Hall, and will be made available online in the coming days.
Public Encouraged to Line Route and Honor Fallen Heroes
Kershaw County, SC – September 4, 2025– Firefighters from the Lugoff and Camden Fire Departments will lead a Walk of Remembrance on Thursday, September 11th, 2025, marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. First responders from across Kershaw County will walk five miles from Camden Fire Station I at City Hall to Lugoff Fire Station, 892 Highway 1 South.
This marks the fifth annual Walk of Remembrance, a tradition begun in 2020 by Firefighter Dejuan Warren when pandemic restrictions canceled other 9/11 events. Participants this year include members of: Camden Fire Department, Camden Police Department, Kershaw County Detention, Kershaw County Dispatch, Kershaw County EMS, Kershaw County Fire Services, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, and Lugoff Fire Department.
“Walking together each year reminds us that remembrance is not just about honoring the past, but about inspiring our community to stand united in courage and service,” said Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner. “We encourage everyone to come out, line the route, and show support for those honoring the heroes of 9/11.” While the walk is led by first responders, the public is invited to line Highway 1 South, wave flags, and cheer on participants as a tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and to honor the bravery of first responders. Residents are encouraged to bring American flags and patriotic displays along the route.
For more information, contact: Dawn-Marie Johnson, Public Information Officer Email: djohnson@camdensc.org Phone: 803-243-5204
