DISCOVERING CAM
OUR COMMUNITY
Camden County, Georgia, known as " Coastal Community of Choice," is a blend town charm, rich history, and stunnin beauty. Nestled along the Atlantic coast County offers a warm and welcoming env where southern hospitality thrives. With its unique combination of picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities, the county is a haven for residents and visitors alike.
The cities of Kingsland, St. Marys, and Woodbine each contribute to the county’s charm and character. Kingsland, known for its friendly atmosphere and annual Catfish Festival, is a growing hub of commerce and community life. Historic St Marys, with its well-preserved downtown and waterfront views, serves as a gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore, drawing visitors from around the globe. Woodbine, the county seat, boasts a quieter pace of life, offering scenic trails and access to the Satilla River, embodying the region's rural charm. Surrounding these cities, unincorporated areas like Waverly and White Oak add to Camden’s rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.
The county’s geography makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its extensive network of rivers, creeks, and marshes, Camden County is a prime destination for fishing, kayaking, and boating. Residents and visitors enjoy scenic parks and a variety of nature trails that highlight the area ’ s biodiversity
Camden County is also home to the Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, a cornerstone of the community and a vital part of the nation's defense infrastructure The base is the home port for the U S Navy’s Atlantic Fleet ballistic missile submarines and significantly contributes to the local economy.
Image by Ashley Alexander
MEET OUR COMMISSIONERS
ABOUT THE BOARD
The Camden County Board of Commissioners (BOC) serves as a vital link between local, regional, and state boards, while also assisting committees that address important issues impacting Camden County's residents and businesses. Committed to active community engagement, each commissioner is elected by district for staggered four-year terms
The BOC is responsible for setting policies, adopting laws, establishing budgets, and setting tax rates, among other duties Additionally, they appoint a County Administrator, who manages the county's daily operations, provides recommendations to the board, and ensures the implementation of the commission’s policies.
Find your district online at camdencountyga.gov/DistrictMap. At right, the map shows the five geographical districts These districts are updated following each Decennial Census.
2024 CAMDEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
EXECUTIVESUMMARY
This Annual Report provides a detailed overview of Camden County’s activities and achievements in 2024. It offers valuable insights into the county’s initiatives, services, and financial performance, serving as a resource for residents, visitors, and stakeholders interested in Camden County’s progress
MISSION
The mission of Camden County Government is to deliver Defined County Services with Exceptional Customer Service in a Financially Sustainable and Transparent Manner.
STRATEGICPLANGOALS
Goal#1-FinanciallySoundCountyProvidingExceptional ServiceandValue
Continued preparations for the upcoming Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) IX referendum
Continued planning for a future Public Safety Complex/Jail Facility
Goal#2-GrowtheLocalEconomy
Made progress towards future airport development
Successful passage of county-wide Freeport Exemption Level IV
Goal#3-GreatPlacetoLive
Improved and upgraded county-owned park facilities
Expanded code enforcement staff to increase abandoned structures abatement
Goal#4-ManageGrowthandPlanforResiliency
Adopted updated Impact Fee schedule
Opened Camden County Resiliency Operations Center
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER
Kristen Kennedy takes on the role of Communications Director, assisting the Board of Commissioners in advancing the county’s mission and expanding it’s reach.
Camden County began using the NextRequest Open Records portal to complete open records requests. This tool streamlines the process and allows greater transparency.
Cassie Turpin, Floodplain and Soil & Erosion Inspector, achieved Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) status through the Association of State Floodplain Managers.
Chief Magistrate Judge Jennifer Lewis received the 2024 Magistrate of the Year award from the Georgia Council of Magistrate Judges.
Jared Beaudoin began work as the Public Works Director. In this role he oversees Roads & Bridges, Fleet Services, Right-of-Way Mowing, and Mosquito Control.
Camden County received a $750,000 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant for the Joint Transportation Plan.
Camden County Emergency Management deployed their new mobile command vehicle during an active shooter training exercise, enhancing coordination and response.
Eight (8) new firefighters joined Camden County Fire Rescue (CCFR) following the completion of Recruit Class 2024-19.
Camden County faced impacts from three tropical systems within a three-month span, with Hurricane Helene causing the most significant damage. FEMA encouraged residents to apply for Individual Assistance to aid in recovery efforts.
NOVEMBER
DECEMBER
The Board of Commissioners reduced the millage rate for the third consecutive year, a 7.91% decrease from the 2023 rate.
Camden County hosted ribbon-cutting ceremonies to celebrate the opening of the new Resiliency Operations Center (ROC) and the renovated Maple Ford Park Community Building.
FUNDING CAMDEN'S FUTURE
GRANT DOLLARS AT WORK
Throughout 2024, Camden County's Grants Management secured 14 grants, amounting to more than $1.35 million in funding. Individual awards ranged from $2,500 to $750,000 Emergency Management (EMA) received the highest number of grants, with seven awards equaling $219,527, while Public Works obtained the largest funding amount with two grants exceeding $995,000
With the grants awarded in 2024, Camden County now has 29 active grants, representing ongoing projects supported by grant funding. Since 2016, the Grants Management team has secured over $16 million for initiatives benefiting the county.
In August, the Camden County Board of Commissioners accepted a $210,000 Community Wildfire Defense Program grant to fund the creation of a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) for Camden County. This funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service and administered by the Georgia Forestry Commission.
The CWPP will serve as a roadmap for wildfire prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery within Camden County.
BUILDING FOR TOMORROW
Throughout 2024, Camden County made remarkable strides advancing several signficant projects, demonstrating a focus on growth, innovation, and community improvement From modernizing infrastructure to opening new facilities, these initiatives were designed to elevate the quality of life for residents while also preparing for future challenges. These efforts not only address the immediate needs of our community, but also set the stage for a stronger, more resilient, and connected Camden County for generations to come.
Many new resources were introduced. Emergency Management utilized a new mobile command vehicle and five new, long-awaited, fire engines went into service for Camden County Fire Rescue.
Enclosed Maple Ford Community Pavilion
Upgraded Park Facilities
Browntown Wilderness Park
New Mobile Command Unit
New MSW Cell Construction
New Fire Engines
AWARD-WINNING GOVERNMENT
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) presented two awards to Camden County's Finance and Budget Department in 2024. The department was awarded a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
Camden County Animal Control received the Advocacy Network Partner of the Year award from the Best Friends Animal Society in the Government Agency and Organization category.
Since 2009, Camden County has been nationally recognized with twenty-eight (28) Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) The Annual Achievement Award program was designed to honor and recognize innovative, effective county government programs that enhance services for residents. Each nominee is judged on its own merits and not against other applications received
In 2024, NACo recognized the Thumbs Up! Employee Recognition Program in the Personnel Management, Employment, and Training category.
The Thumbs Up! Employee Recognition Program was established to acknowledge and reward the performance of county government employees, encouraging a culture of appreciation, motivation, and commitment
MILESTONE MOMENT
RESILIENCY OPERATIONS CENTER RIBBON CUTTING
On December 19, 2024, Camden County leaders, community members, and state and federal dignitaries gathered to celebrate the completion of the new Resiliency Operations Center (ROC) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event, which welcomed over 100 people, was a resounding success. Guests heard inspiring remarks from Chairman Ben L Casey, Emergency Management Director Charles White, Georgia Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Christopher Nunn, and County Administrator Shawn M. Boatright, emphasizing the significance of becoming a more resilient and prepared Camden County.
CHARTING PROGRESS
The Resiliency Operations Center (ROC) is a cornerstone initiative aimed at strengthening Camden County's capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters. By fostering outreach and engagement, the ROC empowers citizens, business owners, faith-based organizations, and non-profits to embrace resiliency in all areas of life
The ROC not only serves as a hub for disaster recovery operations, but also promotes the longterm benefits of a robust community, emphasizing local preparedness and collaboration. This vital project was made possible through generous support from partners, including $5.5 million from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) and $1.27 million in Congressional Direct Spending, championed by Representative Buddy Carter
BREAKING GROUND
Leaders from Camden County and throughout coastal Georgia gathered on April 15, 2024, to honor and celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Camden County Health Department
Representatives from the Coastal Health District, Camden Board of Health, Southeast Georgia Health System, the state, and the cities of Kingsland, St. Marys, and Woodbine, joined the BOC in marking the beginning of an important chapter to enhance public health services and accessibility for local residents
The new $5.38 million Camden County Health Department is expected to open in 2025.
In addition to land donated by Southeast Georgia Health System, funding was provided by: SPLOST VIII; Community Development Block Grant COVID (CDBGCV); Coastal Health District; and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
SOARING AHEAD
CAMDEN COUNTY REPLACEMENT GENERAL AVIATION AIRPORT
The Camden County Board of Commissioners recognizes the importance of maintaining and improving vital infrastructure to benefit all residents and businesses in Southeast Georgia A replacement General Aviation Airport is a key piece of this effort, serving not only local aviation needs but also supporting economic growth, emergency response capabilities, and regional connectivity.
For several years, this project has been identified as a top priority. To move forward, the county requested the FAA include the replacement airport in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) and provide 90% funding for the project. This initiative aims to replace an essential community asset while minimizing local financial burden.
Aircraft Registered to Camden County Addresses
HOW GEORGIA AIRPORTS RANK 35 17
3rd 4th 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th
Licensed Air Transport, Commercial, or Private Pilots in Camden County
for annual output from general aviation for jobs supported by general aviation for general aviation’s contribution to GDP for total annual economic input from civil aviation for general aviation output per capita for aviation’s contribution to the state’s GDP for per capital contribution of general aviation to GDP
A replacement airport has been identified as a need in the Georgia Statewide Aviation System Plan Following the closure of the St Marys Airport in 2017, an initial site selection study was completed in 2005 and updated in 2018
As part of the closure process for the St Marys Airport, the DOD provided $4.5 million in funding to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to build a replacement airport
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides $150,000 in annual grant support for various construction and rehabilitation projects for airports that have at least ten based airplanes.
Steps to Take Off
STEPS TO TAKE OFF
“Airports serve as a ‘front door’ and the key access point to an area for
-Randy Southerland
CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE
EMPLOYEES OF THE QUARTER
Each quarter, Camden County employees had the opportunity to nominate a colleague who went above and beyond in their contributions to the county From these nominations, the Employee Recognition Committee selected one outstanding employee each quarter. At the end of the year, one of these exceptional individuals was chosen as 2024 Employee of the Year
First Quarter: Petie Kemp, Senior Building Inspector in the Planning & Development Department, has been serving Camden County since 2021. Known for his dedication and expertise, Petie was also honored as Camden County’s 2024 Employee of the Year
Second Quarter: Heather Metty, Senior Revenue Representative in the Motor Vehicle Division of the Tax Commissioner’s Office, has been a valued employee since 2017 Her commitment to excellent service makes her an integral part of the team.
Third Quarter: Captain James Marr, Training Captain for Camden County Fire Rescue, has served the county since 2013, playing a key role in strengthening the department through leadership and training
Fourth Quarter: Summer Sullivan, Office Manager for the Tax Assessors Office, has been a steady presence since 2017, contributing essential organizational support to the office
EXCELLENCE AMONG US
In June, Camden County Elections & Registration was honored with the Georgia Election Administration Golden Leader in Excellence (EAGLE) Award. This recognition celebrates the innovations, accomplishments, and best practices of election offices dedicated to delivering safe, secure, accessible, and accurate elections for Georgia voters. Camden County is proud to be recognized for its commitment to upholding the integrity of the democratic process den County es achieving a in 2024, e 560 years ounty.
Facilities Maintenance Department was honored as Camden County’s Department of the Year. Their efforts in maintaining county facilities and buildings are essential to ensuring operations run smoothly and efficiently.
This includes Charlene Carter (left) who completed 45 years, and Cindy Daniels (right) who completed 40 years of service in 2024.
STEWARDSHIP & SUSTAINABILITY
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
The General Fund is the largest single fund in Camden County budget, comprising $46,480,821 or 53 42% of the adopted budget There are sixteen (16) additional funds that encompass the other 46 58% of the adopted budget.
The subsequent four largest funds are: SPLOST VIII ($15,924,174)
Solid Waste ($8,919,287)
American Rescue Plan ($4,787,934)
Unincorporated Tax District ($3,728,929)
GENERAL FUND BY CATEGORY
*General Government includes, but is not limited to, Board of Commissioners, Elections & Registration, Finance & Budget, Human Resources, Information Technology, Tax Assessor, and Tax Commissioner
It is important to note this is the third consecutive year the Board of Commissioners has reduced the millage rate for Camden County.
About our covers: The front cover photo was provided by Derek Bradley as a part of the 2016 Showcase Camden County Photo Contest, and the back cover photo was provided by Ashley Alexander as part of the 2023 contest
INVESTING IN PROGRESS
Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) VIII funds make a big difference in our community.
WHAT IS A SPLOST?
SPLOST is a county-wide tax used to fund capital outlay projects proposed by the county government and participating municipal governments It may not be used for operating expenses This tax is collected on all items subject to sales tax, regardless of where the purchaser resides.
WHAT IS SPLOST VIII?
In March 2019, Camden County voters approved SPLOST VIII and collections began on July 1, 2019, and will expire on June 30, 2025.
SPLOST VIII includes specific, preidentified projects for Camden County, the Cities of Kingsland, St. Marys, and Woodbine, along with the Public Service Authority.
WHAT HAS SPLOST VIII DONE FOR CAMDEN?
For public safety, SPLOST VIII funding purchased four (4) ambulances for Camden County Fire Rescue and supported the expansion of the Public Safety Radio Communications System.
Additionally, a new E-911/EMA complex is in the planning process. This building will be completed with SPLOST VIII funding.
SPLOST VIII funding continues to enhance the Camden County Library, ensuring improved services The Clerk of Superior Court is utilizing these funds to preserve records dating back hundreds of years. Additionally, plans for a new boat ramp providing access to the St. Marys River are underway.
IS THERE A SPLOST IX?
In 2024, county and city leaders worked together to create a proposed SPLOST IX plan, outlining projects to benefit the community. This proposal will be presented to voters in March 2025
8,335 Emergency and Non-Emergency EMS Calls in 2024
DEPARTMENTS AT A GLANCE
SERVING CAMDEN
COUNTY CLERK
Mission: To maintain official county records and facilitate transparent communication between the public and the Board of Commissioners.
2024 Highlights: Introduced the NextRequest software to enhance transparency and efficiency in processing open records requests. 231 requests were completed through the portal during the year.
FACILITIES MAINTENANCE
Mission: To maintain and enhance county buildings and grounds, providing safe and functional environments for public services.
2024 Highlights: Facilities Maintenance was selected as Department of the Year, celebrating outstanding performance and dedication, and recognizing the appointment of a new director.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Mission: To recruit, develop, and retain a skilled and diverse workforce committed to serving Camden County residents.
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
Mission: To guide sustainable land use and development, ensuring balanced growth that aligns with Camden County's vision.
20 24
2024 Highlights: Launched an interactive online dashboard to provide ongoing updates, enhancing transparency and accessibility for residents and developers.
PUBLIC WORKS
Mission: To develop and maintain infrastructure, including roads and drainage systems, ensuring safe and efficient transportation and services.
2024 Highlights: The department maintained approximately 300 miles of county roads, including 173 miles of paved and 127 miles of unpaved roads, ensuring safe travel for the community.
SOLID WASTE
2024 Highlights: ThumbsUp Employee Recognition Program was recognized in 2024 with a National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award.
Mission: To provide safe, environmentally friendly waste disposal services, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
2024 Highlights: Processed over 227,592 tons at the C&D and MSW sites and began construction on a new cell at the MSW site.
This section highlights key services within Camden County offices and departments, showcasing their impact throughout the year
By the nubmers....
This section highlights key services within Camden County Public Safety departments and offices.
WAYS TO STAY IN TOUCH
REFLECTIONS AND THE ROAD AHEAD
COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR'S CLOSING REMARKS
Thank you for taking the time to read the 2024 Camden County Annual Report. This document highlights many of our achievements from the past year, and I am particularly proud of the dedication and accomplishments of our Board of Commissioners and county staff Their perseverance and drive illustrate our united goal of enhancing the quality of life for all who call Camden County home.
I warmly invite you to join us at our Board of Commissioners meetings, where your voice and engagement help shape the future of Camden County. The Board meets regularly on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers on the 2nd floor of the Government Services Complex in Woodbine. Your participation is invaluable as we work together for the betterment of our community.
It is both a privilege and an honor to live and work in Camden County, a place filled with incredible people and boundless opportunities.
Keep up-to-date with our progress by visiting our website, camdencountyga.gov, or following us on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, X, and YouTube.
Sincerely,
Shawn M. Boatright, ICMA-CM, MPA, CPM County Administrator
Camden County 2025 Holidays
New Year’s Day - Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Monday, January 20, 2025
President’s Day - Monday, February 17, 2025
Good Friday - Friday, April 18, 2025
Memorial Day - Monday, May 26, 2025
Juneteenth - Thursday, June 19, 2025
Independence Day - Friday, July 4, 2025
Labor Day - Monday, September 1, 2025
Columbus Day - Monday, October 13, 2025
Veterans Day - Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 27, 2025
Day After Thanksgiving - Friday, November 28, 2025
Christmas Holidays - Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Christmas Holidays - Thursday, December 25, 2025
Christmas Holidays - Friday, December 26, 2025
