MEET YOUR COMMISSIONERS
ABOUT THE 2025 BOARD
The Camden County Board of Commissioners (BOC) helps connect our local community with regional and state leaders, while also supporting committees that focus on key issues affecting residents and businesses Each commissioner is elected by district and serves a four-year term, working to stay actively involved in the community
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
The map below shows Camden’s five geographical districts. These districts are updated following each decennial census.
Robbie Cheek District 1
Martin Turner District 2
Cody Smith District 3
Jim Goodman District 4
Ben L. Casey
2025-2030-2040 STRATEGIC PLAN
Camden County 2040 has Relaxed Living with Quality Residential Developments, Effective Transportation System, and Abundant Leisure Choices for All Camden County Vision 2040
Camden County 2040 is the Premier Coastal Community of GeorgiaBeautiful and Safe
Camden County 2040 has a Strong Regional Economy and Diverse Job Opportunities with four major pillars: an Active Naval Submarine Base, a Successful Replacement Regional Airport, Sports Tourism, and Light Manufacturing and Entrepreneurial Businesses.
The mission of Camden County Government is to deliver defined county services with exceptional customer service and in a financially sustainable and transparent manner. Camden County Mission
Camden County Goals 2030
Maintain a financially sound county and provide exceptional service and value
Strengthen and grow the local economy
Manage growth and plan for resiliency
Foster a great place to live
The 2025-2030-2040 Camden County Strategic Plan, adopted in April, provides residents with insight into the county’s goals and initiatives for the years ahead Visit camdencountyga.gov/StrategicPlan to view the current plan as well as previous plans.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
In late April, the Camden County Board of Commissioners, joined by community partners from across the county, took part in the ribbon cutting celebration for the new Camden County Health Department.
Partners celebrating this milestone included Coastal Health District, Camden County Board of Health, Southeast Georgia Health System (SGHS), and Camden County Health Department staff
Since opening in May, clinical services and environmental health are under one roof, making it easier than ever for users to access vital public health resources
This project would not have been possible without strong community collaboration and investment Funding was provided through:
SPLOST VIII (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax)
WIC and CDBG-CV grants
A generous land donation from SGHS
We’re grateful to all our partners for helping bring this essential resource to Camden County. You may visit the new DPH at 101 Winding Road in Kingsland.
RIBBON CUTTING
CITIZENS’ ACADEMY
BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIEW OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT
ABOUT THE CLASS
The 2025 Camden County Citizens’ Academy kicked off on April 8 and wrapped up on June 26 with a special graduation ceremony honoring 20 local residents Over 12 sessions, participants got an inside look at county operations, leadership, and services The next class will launch in Spring 2026
SESSIONS:
Board of Commissioners Meeting
Clerk of Superior Court
Code Enforcement/Animal Control
Connecting with Camden
County Administrator
County Clerk
CRS/Erosion & Sedimentation
Elections & Registration
Emergency Management
Environmental Health
Facilities Maintenance
Finance & Budget
Fire Rescue
GIS
Grants
Human Resources
Jail
Joint Development Authority (JDA)
Magistrate Court
Planning & Development
Probate Court
Public Works
Safety & Risk
Sheriff's Office
Solid Waste/Landfill
Tax Assessor
Two Rivers Gun Range
UGA Extension/4-H
CITIZENS’ ACADEMY
Citizens’ Academy is an interactive program that gives residents, business owners, and professionals a behind-the-scenes look at how Camden County operates Each session offers firsthand insight into the day to day work that keeps the community running smoothly Throughout the progr every corner of Camden County Governm ranging from public safety and budgeting t
CITIZENS’ ACADEMY
BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIEW OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT
From Left: Commissioner Robbie Cheek, Amanda Watson, Ruth Thompson, Timmy Mann, Julie Mann, Tina Marie Jones, Commissioner Martin Turner, John Wojcik, Michael Lynch, Helga Lynch, Bob Bagwell, Ruba Franks, Commissioner Ben Casey, Todd Franks, Lynn Mitchell, Commissioner Jim Goodman, Sugar Yadav, Rose Webster, Linda Hall, Brandon Michael, Syreeta Cuthbert, MarySue Michael, and Commissioner Cody Smith (Not Pictured: Rebecca Capeheart and LaMark Combs)
CITIZENS’ ACADEMY
COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE BEHIND-THE-SCENES
OF PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
In late June, Camden County Planning & Development welcomed the community to explore their new facility during a special Open House Guests enjoyed behind-thescenes tours of the offices and met the staff who serve our community every day
Attendees also learned about the department’s GIS technology as well as the new GovWell permitting software, which makes applications and approvals easier for residents and businesses. Team members shared updates on ordinances, certifications, and recent accomplishments.
The Open House concluded with the June Planning Commission meeting, giving participants a firsthand look at how zoning decisions are made and the steps involved in the approval process
Planning & Development is open Mo closed for all county holidays.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
THIOKOL MEMORIAL PROJECT
In June, the Camden County Board of Commissioners honored the lives forever changed by the 1971 Thiokol Chemical Plant explosion, one of the worst industrial accidents in Georgia’s history With deep respect and pride, the Board issued a proclamation recognizing the remarkable work of the Thiokol Memorial Project and the Emmy-winning documentary The Day That Shook Georgia
This tragedy claimed 29 lives, many of whom were African American women working to support our troops during the Vietnam War, serving their country from the home front. It also impacted countless families and left a lasting mark on our community and our nation. Their stories are important, and thanks to the dedication of the Thiokol Memorial Project, their legacy continues to educate and inspire.
The Board also signed a letter of support to President Trump, urging the awarding of a Congressional Gold Medal to honor these American patriots and ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
CAMDEN COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES
Earlier this spring, the Camden County Senior Center hosted a Living Tribute to honor former members who have passed away. As part of the ceremony, District 1 Commissioner Robbie Cheek, County Administrator Shawn Boatright, and Deputy County Administrator Seth Collins took part in planting a tree This lasting tribute serves as a beautiful reminder of the many lives that have shaped and supported the Senior Center community
In May, the Camden County Senior Center hosted its 2025 Fashion & Hat Show, where participants showcased their best looks while walking down a festive pink carpet. Congratulations to Shirley (group center) who took first place, Lynn (group left) who placed second, and Maurice (group right) who came in third. The celebration also included a cheerful Spring Luncheon for all to enjoy.
TEAM
CAMDEN
RECOGNITION, TRAINING, & CONFERENCES
CONTINUING EDUCATION
ACCG ANNUAL CONFERENCE
In April, members of the Camden County Board of Commissioners and staff attended the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) Annual Conference in Chatham County, Georgia This conference provided excellent education opportunities to learn specialized information for county government professionals.
During the conference, Chairman Ben L. Casey received a Specialty Track Certification in the Lifelong Learning Academy from the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government and ACCG Additionally, Communications Director Kristen Kennedy led a session on communications for local governments.
CELEBRATING SERVICE
ANIMAL CONTROL, EMS, AND PUBLIC WORKS WEEKS
In April, the Camden County Board of Commissioners recognized team members for Animal Control Officers Week, acknowledging the commitment and hard work of our Camden County Animal Control staff.
In May, the Camden County Board of Commissioners recognized Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, acknowledging the vital role these professionals play in protecting our community every day.
Also in May, the Camden County Board of Commissioners issued a proclamation recognizing the vital work of our Public Works team. The dedicated crews in Roads & Bridges, Right-of-Way Mowing, and Fleet Services keep Camden County running safely and smoothly.
EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER
KAYLA OLIVER
From Left: County Administrator Shawn Boatright, Commissioner Cody Smith, Vice Chair Robbie Cheek, Chairman Ben Casey, Employee Recognition Committee Member Krystin Miller, Commissioner Martin Turner, Kayla Oliver, Employee Recognition Committee Member Amy Peeples, Deputy County Administrator Seth Collins, and Commissioner Jim Goodman
AV/IT Helpdesk Technician, Kayla Oliver was named Employee of the Quarter Her consistent display of professionalism, resourcefulness, and reliability earned her this recognition Colleagues praised her strong problem-solving skills and positive attitude She is known for her willingness to assist others, including staying late to resolve urgent issues
Additionally, Kayla earned CySA+ and CSAP certifications this Spring These industry-recognized credentials reflect her strong expertise in threat detection, analysis, and response We’re proud to have her cybersecurity skills on the Camden County team!
RTIFICATIONS
The Camden County Board of Commissioners is pleased to recognize employees receiving certifications for continuing their education
Ernest “Petie” Kemp in Planning & Development achieved the Combination Commercial Building Inspector Certification through the International now Camden hold both the and the ertifications.
Information his CompTIA his industryestablishes xpertise and derstanding of mitigation, and s
MainPoint Health & Wellness Director Cindy Popa achieved her InSync System Admin Certification This achievement reflects her commitment to providing top-tier service to our employees in the employee clinic.
Scott Van Osdol earned his Mastering Audio Visual Service Management (MASM) Operational Manager qualification. As a valued member of our IT team, and this accomplishment reflects Scott’s dedication to excellence and continued professional growth.
Jacob Nicholson
Cindy Popa
HEALTH AND SAFETY
EMPLOYEE TRAINING
In April, Camden County partnered with staff from the Georgia Coastal Health District to provide Naloxone (Narcan) training to county employees
Coordinated by our Safety & Risk team, this important effort seeks to equip county staff with life-saving tools and strengthen our commitment to community safety.
In June, the Safety & Risk team partnered with Camden County Fire Rescue to deliver CPR training for county employees Participants practiced life-saving skills on both adult and infant manikins and learned how to properly use an AED and respond to choking emergencies
BENEFITS AND WELLNESS
TAKING CARE OF THE TEAM
In May, Camden County Human Resources hosted the annual employee benefits fair, “Let’s Taco-Bout Benefits” Employees had the opportunity to explore options rmative setting alent By supporting and
DEPARTMENT STATS THE QUARTERLY NUMBERS
DEPARTMENTS AT A GLANCE
SERVING CAMDEN
ANIMAL CONTROL
Camden County Animal Control hosted five (5) No-Cost Adoption Events during the second quarter of 2025. Due to the limited space available to house dogs, these events are vital to place pets in their “fur-ever” homes. More adoption events are scheduled. Check out the Camden County Animal Control Facebook page for details
ELECTIONS & REGISTRATION
Employees with Camden County Elections & Registration diligently worked throughout the second quarter of 2025 to ensure a smooth and efficient Special Primary Election. This statewide election for two seats on the Public Service Commission (PSC) had a 2 25% turnout of Camden County registered voters
MOSQUITO CONTROL
CURBSIDE COLLECTION
During the second quarter of 2025, the Curbside Collection office received only one customer complaint. Contractor Meridian Waste serves over 5,300 customers in unincorporated Camden County. During FY 2024, only 18 complaints were received for the entire year Contact Curbside Collection at 912-510-6881 with any questions
Q 2
Camden County Public Works contracts with VDCI to provide mosquito control services in our community In the second quarter, a combined 72 truck missions treated a total of 58,049 acres With higher temperatures and increased rainfall, the number of mosquitoes will continue to rise. Contact Public Works at 912-576-3028 if you need assistance with Mosquito Control.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
In June, the Camden County Emergency Management team released the 2025 Hurricane Guide for Camden County With the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season on June 1 , Emergency Management officials have spoken to groups and organizations across our community to encourage residents to prepare for potential tropical activity
SOLID WASTE
In June, Camden County Solid Waste hosted the 31 Annual Kids Fishing Derby 57 young anglers ages 4 to 16 took part in the event at the Municipal Solid Waste Landfill. Congratulations to this year ’ s winners: Walker Brown for heaviest fish, Niya Scarlett for most fish caught, Colin Donnell as the youngest angler, and Sofia Scarlett and Garett Bishop for longest fish, ending in a tie
Finance & Budget
Annually, Camden County’s Budget Committee goes through a careful process to plan how to spend public funds This helps ensure tax dollars are used wisely to support the things that matter most—like public safety, roads, parks, and everyday services. It’s a thoughtful, transparent effort to balance community needs with financial responsibility.
Following the actions of the Budget Committee, the Camden County Board of Commissioners holds work sessions and public hearings to refine the details of the proposed budget and asks for citizen input In early June, the FY 2026 Proposed Budget was made available for review online and in-person at the Government Services Complex.
With minor changes, the Camden County Board of Commissioners approved the proposed budget at a Special Called Meeting in late June. The FY 2026 Adopted Budget, covering July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, is available on the Camden County website, camdencountyga.gov/FinancialReports.
The FY 2026 Budget details eighteen (18) total funds, including the General Fund, the largest component of the budget. At $47,807,556, the FY 2026 General Fund covers most of the routine county government operations. Other large funds include the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds, Solid Waste Authority, and the Unincorporated Tax District.
FY 2026 - Total Revenue and Expense by Fund
Fund
General Fund
Law Library
Jail & Staffing
Curbside Collections
Shared Assets
Opioid Settlement
Emergency Telephone 911
Drug Abuse
American Rescue Plan
Unincorporated Tax District
Hotel/Motel Tax
SPLOST VIII
SPLOST IX
GA Transportation
Capital Improvement Program
Impact Fees
Solid Waste Authority
Two Rivers Gun Range
Revenues
$47,807,556
$21,025
$201,675
$1,756,653
$100,000 $65,000
$1,825,247
$67,500 $907,667
$4,072,431 $145,500
$6,836,285
$13,908,208
$2,143,472
$563,993
$135,000
$4,959,732 $293,610
Expenses
$47,807,556 $21,025 $201,675 $1,756,653 $100,000 $65,000 $1,825,247 $67,500 $907,667 $4,072,431 $145,500 $6,836,285 $13,908,208 $2,143,472 $563,993 $135,000 $4,959,732 $293,610
Revenue
EXPENDITURES & REVENUE
FY25 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) VIII Revenue
$1,400,000
$1,200,000
$1,000,000
$600,000
$400,000
$200,000 $800,000
$0
Ad Valorem Tax Revenue*
$200,000 $600,000
$0
Local Option Sales Tax Revenue
From July 2024 through June 2025, Camden County collected $26.5 million in Ad Valorem taxes 94.9% of the FY 2025 budgeted amount.
Most of the Ad Valorem tax revenue is collected in a threemonth period around the property tax due date
*Unaudited numbers.
Hotel/Motel Tax
$0 $100,000
Public Safety
In June, Sheriff Kevin Chaney hosted a 2 Quarter Town Hall Meeting at the Resiliency Operations Center in Kingsland Joined by Chief Rickey Evans of Kingsland and Chief James Galloway of St Marys, participants had the opportunity to speak with our community’s public safety leaders A Livestream of the meeting is available on the Sheriff’s Office YouTube page.
Additionally, the Camden County Sheriff’s Office released Camden Sheriff’s 2025 Second Quarter Report. This document details statistics and also highlights training, special projects, and division details. Find links to the report on the Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
Camden County Fire Rescue (CCFR) provides Advanced Life Support and Fire Services to all citizens and visitors throughout Camden County Fire Rescue
In the second quarter of 2025, members of Recruit Class 2025-13 (shown above) have been hard at work with classroom and practical skills training to prepare for earning state certification.
Members of Recruit Class 2025-13 are scheduled to graduate in late September 2025
Revenues Collected by Month
$50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000
14
64
72
Camden County has successfully maintained its Class 6 rating in the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System (CRS). This rating allows unincorporated Camden County residents to continue receiving a 20% discount on flood insurance premiums for most NFIP policies issued or renewed on or after October 1, 2025
Since joining the CRS program in 2012, Camden County’s efforts have resulted in more than $1 million in cumulative savings for policyholders in unincorporated areas.
Public Works
Camden County Public Works crews were hard at work throughout the first quarter of 2025 This dedicated department maintains 167 miles of paved public roads and 125 miles of unpaved public roads in Unincorporated Camden County.
This Spring, Director Jared Beaudoin (bottom right) and Assistant Director Joshua Carroll (bottom left) joined Purchasing Agent Kelsey Kelley (bottom center) in completing the Engineering and Design Procurement Policy and Procedure portion of the Local Administered Project (LAP) Certification through Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
New Cell Open
Camden County's landfills cater to the disposal needs of municipal solid waste (MSW), as well as construction and demolition (C&D) and industrial waste
Solid Waste is an enterprise fund, meaning that the funds collected through tipping fees pay for the landfills Taxpayer dollars are not used to supplement the budget
The MSW and C&D Landfills are open Monday-Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The Old Still Road Yard Waste Site is open on Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p m
2nd Quarter Fees by Location
$443,083.29
Two Rivers Gun Range
Two Rivers Gun Range has 10% discount on guest passes for members and 10% off day passes for non-members for certain groups on specific days.
Tuesday - Ladies Day
Wednesday - Senior Citizens (Ages 55+)
Thursday - First Responder Day*
Friday - Military Day*
*Active or retired with credentials
“Best range around.” Google Review
“Two Rivers Gun Range is top notch, The staff are all great people. Camden County is blessed to have such a great range for it's residence to take part in a great sport.”
Google Review
“It was a great environment. Can't wait to go back.” Google Review
“We had a great time. The rules were explained to where we understood exactly what we could and could not do. We had fun.”
Google Review
Know Your Limits (KYL)
The Know Your Limits (KYL) Shooting Competition is a precision marksmanship challenge that tests a shooter’s accuracy while rewarding precision and smart decision-making under pressure, mental discipline, and risk management. Shooters engage a series of steel targets, arranged from largest to smallest, and must hit each one in order but one miss ends the run and erases all earned points.
Participating in KYL at Two Rivers Gun Range
Think you ’ ve got what it takes? Take on the KYL Challenge from Firing Point 8 or 9 on the Rifle Range!
Step 1: Qualify
Hit the 200-yard Kongsberg target three times in the 10-ring Must be witnessed by the Range Safety Officer.
Step 2: Complete the Challenge
Engage three steel gongs at 215 yards, in order from largest to smallest
One shot per target (3", 2", & 1" Gongs)
Three-minute time limit
No misses allowed
Winners earn an I Know My Limits t-shirt. If you miss a shot, you will have to try again another day. Learn more at camdencountyga.gov/KYL.
he KYL Challenge began in late June Three members completed the challenge in June and won he highly-coveted I Know My Limits t-shirt
Congratulations to:
Dale Anderson (pictured top)
Steve Atwood (pictured middle)
Tony Miller (pictured bottom)
Join the fun and see if you know your limit!
Animal Control
Earlier this year, a special dog from Camden County Animal Control named Luther joined the K9s For Warriors training program—and we ’ re excited to share an update on his journey. Now known as Disco (pictured below), this smart and spirited dog is making incredible progress!
Disco is forming strong bonds with his trainer and canine companions His curiosity, affectionate nature, and growing social skills are helping him thrive as he prepares for life as a Service Dog.
ADMINISTRATOR’S MESSAGE
As we reach the midpoint of the year, I’m pleased to share some of the many accomplishments and efforts underway across our County. The second quarter of 2025 has been both productive and inspiring as we continue to work together to make Camden County a great place to live, work, and thrive.
We recently celebrated the official ribbon cutting of the new Department of Public Health facility, which marks a major investment in access to local health resources This new space will provide greater service capacity and improved support for our residents
This quarter also marked the successful completion of another Camden County Citizens’ Academy, with participants gaining firsthand knowledge of county operations. Congratulations to our recent graduates, and thank you for taking an active role in local government.
We hosted a well-attended Open House at our Planning and Development Department, giving the public the opportunity to engage directly with staff and learn more about land use, permitting, and planning initiatives Events like this strengthen transparency and communication with our community
We were honored to recognize the Thiokol Memorial Project following its recent Emmy Award win for the documentary “The Day That Shook Georgia.” The Board of Commissioners also unanimously approved signing a letter in support of the group ’ s efforts to secure the Congressional Gold Medal for those affected by the 1971 explosion a historic moment we ’ re proud to support.
At our Camden County Senior Center, events like the recent tree planting ceremony and the Spring Fashion Show brought joy, community spirit, and recognition to our senior residents We are proud to continue supporting programs that celebrate and connect our older adults
And finally, we ’ re proud to announce the approval of the County’s FY 2026 General Fund Budget totaling $47.8 million. This budget reflects our priorities and includes up to 5% increases in compensation for all staff, demonstrating our commitment to attracting and retaining qualified professionals who deliver critical public services.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support. Your participation, input, and pride in Camden County help guide our work every day As always, we remain focused on serving our citizens with excellence and integrity
Sincerely,
Shawn M. Boatright, ICMA-CM, MPA, CPM County Administrator
