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Camden council approves budget, annexation and authorizes Midtown letter of intent
Summary
At its May 19 meeting, the Camden City Council voted 4-1 to approve an annexation ordinance, unanimously approved the operating and capital budget for fiscal 2026–27 on its first reading, and authorized the city manager to negotiate a non-binding letter of intent for the potential sale and residential development of the Midtown property. Council also presented historic-preservation awards and heard public comment on water resources.
Camden City Council voted May 19 to approve an annexation ordinance, adopt the city’s operating and capital budget for fiscal 2026–27, and authorize the city manager to negotiate a non-binding letter of intent for a potential Midtown sale and residential development.
Mayor Vincent Sheheen called the council to order at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall’s Council Chambers. On routine business, council members unanimously approved the minutes of the May 5 meeting and the evening’s proposed agenda.
On substantive business, the council voted 4-1 to adopt Ordinance #2026-010 on second reading, approving annexation of property under the 100% annexation method and assigning a zoning classification; Councilmember Phil Elliott cast the lone dissenting vote. The transcript does not list parcel identifiers or the zoning district assigned.
The council also considered Ordinance #2026-011 and, after comments from City Manager Matt DeWitt, voted unanimously to approve the operating and capital budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, and to authorize the accompanying schedule of rates and charges. The total dollar amount and line-item details of the approved budget were not specified in the meeting record.
After a closed session to discuss contractual matters related to the manager’s office, council re-entered regular session and authorized City Manager Matt DeWitt to negotiate and execute a non-binding letter of intent concerning the potential sale and residential development of the Midtown property. The authorization directs the manager to pursue discussions; the transcript does not specify price, developer identity, or a timetable for completion of any sale.
Council used part of the meeting to present 2026 Historic Preservation Awards, recognizing Jame and Rita Trivett for their work on the Little Theater; the Camden Junior Welfare League for its role with the Tour of Homes; and John and Mary Jane Martin alongside Greener Pastures Brewer for the adaptive reuse of the Hazelwood Cleaners Building. City Manager DeWitt also noted upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremonies for playground improvements at Boykin and Hampton parks and the newly developed Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill site.
During public comment, Linda Kanatzar of Polo Lane urged council and staff to prioritize preservation of existing water resources and to remain mindful of smart-growth implications as the city considers future development. The meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m. in honor of Jacqueline Greene-Stuckey.
Next steps: the record shows the council has authorized the city manager to pursue a non-binding letter of intent for Midtown; no further scheduling or implementation details were provided in the transcript.
