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 Thornsberry also shared that utility providers are expected to begin removing outdated power poles later this year following completion of ongoing fiber and service transfers, with a required waiting period before removal can begin.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.