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 Camden County Board of Commissioners
Community Outreach eNewsletter
"Working together to make a positive difference in the community."
A Publication from the Office of the County Administrator - Summer Edition
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Connect With Us! |    | |
Keep up with what's going on in YOUR local government! |
| UPCOMING Board of County Commissioners Meetings & Public Hearings | |
June 24th Regular BOCC
Meeting
6:00PM
County Offices will be closed July 4th in Observance of Independence Day
July 15th Regular BOCC
Meeting
6:00PM
August 5th Regular BOCC Meeting
6:00PM
August 19th Regular BOCC Meeting
6:00PM
County Offices will be closed September 1st in Observance of Labor Day
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Government Services Complex
200 East 4th Street
Woodbine, GA 31569
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| "Great Customer Service is the Cornerstone of Every Successful Organization!"
 | | Please click on the link below to complete Camden County's customer service survey. | |
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Free Prescription Discount Cards Available to Camden County Residents
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Click on the image above to view more information about this service.
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Camden County Fire Rescue Seeking Volunteers
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Camden County Fire Rescue is recruiting volunteer firefighters to be a part of the department. The volunteer firefighter program will be used to augment existing peronnel to meet the needs of the community now and in the future.
Visit the program website for the most current information.
Contact Fire Rescue Headquarters at (912) 729-3911 for questions about this program.
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A Message from the County Administrator
The Board of County Commissioners adopted the fiscal year 2015 budget on June 24, 2014. The priority in developing this budget was to provide the board with a balanced budget. As always organization "wants" have been paired down to justifiable "needs". It is no small accomplishment that these objectives have been achieved. Discipline innovation and commitment must follow. To the taxpayer we must commit our best effort. Nothing less is acceptable. To view Budget click here.
I am proud to announce Camden County was awarded a 2014 Achievement
 Award from The National Association of Counties for its program: Automatic & Mutual Aid-Functional Consolidation, "Achieving Success through City-County Collaboration. This award belongs collectively to the City of Kingsland, City of St. Marys and Camden County Board of Commissioners. I am honored to announce Camden County was published in the summer edition of Georgia County Government magazine. The article showcased Camden County and University of Florida Health at Jacksonville's Public-Private partnership award winning program.
The 2014 Hurricane season has started I encourage you to learn more about hurricane hazards and what you can do to help protect yourself, your family , and your property. To view the 2014 Georgia Hurricane Guide click here. For information from the National Hurricane Center click here.
Have a wonderful and safe summer!
Yours for a better Camden,
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Coast2CoastRx Free Prescription Discount Card Program
Are you or a family member struggling to pay for monthly Prescriptions? You don't have to. Camden County has made available a FREE prescription drug discount card that will save you up to 75% on Prescriptions. You can save up to:
- 60% on Lab work
- 50% on Dental and Vision
- 80% savings on Imaging
- 35% savings on Hearing
- 25% on Veterinary Services.
Visit the Government Services Building in Woodbine, the Camden County Public Library on the corner of Gross Road and HWY 40 in Kingsland to get your card today. Or visit www.coast2coastrx.com. Any questions please feel free to call Renee' Crews at 912-510-0464
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Camden County Named NACo 2014 Achievement Award Winner
 Camden County has been recognized at the national level for the recently implemented functional consolidation program between Camden County Fire Rescue, the Kingsland Fire Department and the St. Marys Fire Department. Last week the National Association of Counties (NACo) granted Camden County a 2014 Achievement Award for its program titled "Automatic & Mutual Aid - Functional Consolidation, Achieving Success through City-County Collaboration"" in the category of Emergency Management and Response.
The Mutual and Automatic Aid Agreement joined together Camden County FIre Rescue with Kingsland and St. Marys FIre Deparments in a manner designed to improve efficiency, reduce response times and improve the level of service for the citizens of Camden County. Under the agreement the three departments began training together and the unit that is geographically closest to a call location will respond.
The agreement is the result of unprecedented cooperation between the Camden County Board of Commissioners (BOCC), the Kingsland City Council and the St. Marys City Council. The agreement was one of the options proposed by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Center for Public Safety Management who had been hired in 2013 to study the feasibility of consolidation of fire services within the county. Following the study a committee comprised of elected members of the two city councils, the BOCC as well as the County Administrator and the two City Managers.
County Administrator Steve Howard said the award belongs to everyone who played a role in developing and implementing the consolidated mutual aid program. "This award is the result of a lot of hard work by a great many people who shared the vision of better service for Camden County. When local government works together great things are accomplished." |
ST. Marys Aquatic Center is currently open 7 Days a Week!
If you're looking for a place to cool off, the St. Marys Aquatic Center is the place to be.
The seven acre recreational swimming facility located in Southeast Georgia has three separate water attractions including a lazy river, interactive children's play area and a lap pool with a two-story twister slide. The Aquatic Center is owned and operated by the City of St. Marys. Concessions, Gift Shop, lockers, restrooms and changing areas all on site.
Monday-Friday 11 am- 6pm
Saturday 10 am- 6 pm
Sunday 1 pm- 6 pm
Make your reservations today for: Birthday Partys, Facility Rentals, Group Outings or Swimming Lessons.
General Information
Daily Admission Prices: General- $9.95 Junior (under 48" tall)- $6.95  Child (Ages 2-4)- $3.75
Senior (Ages 55 and up)- $7.50
Nite Splash (after 4pm daily)- $5.00
Teen Night- $5.00
Weather Policy:
The aquatic center reserves the right to close attractions when weather conditions do not permit safe operation of the park. If attractions are closed for one continuous hour, the aquatic center will close for the day. Rain checks are issued with all paid receipts if they do end up closing for the day. The rain checks are good throughout the rest of the current season.
For more details contact the Aquatic Center at Phone:(912) 673-8118 or Email: [email protected] |
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"Showcase Camden County" Photo Contest
 Get out and take your best shot of Camden County and help us show the world through the lens of a camera Georgia's Coastal Community of Choice!
The 2014 contest calls for photographers to submit their best photos of Camden County, Georgia and its activities, attractions and events, as well as historic and scenic locations. Camden County's natural landscapes and unique events provide limitless creative inspiration to individuals that enjoy seeing the world through the lens of a camera.
Photos submitted will be used by Camden County Government in its ongoing publications and promotions. Appropriate credit will be given to photographers when their photos are used. The winning photographs will be showcased at Camden County's Government Services Complex, as well as various other locations throughout Camden County.
One winner per category will be awarded. The categories are as follows: - Landscapes (Sunsets, sunrises, docks & rivers)
- Nature/Wildlife (Flowers, trees, insects, and birds) Transportation (St. Marys Airport/Airplanes, Railroad/Trains, Vehicles/Classic Cars, Boating, Roadways/Dirt Roads, Major Intersections/Interstate-95)
- People/Current Events (Festivals, Sporting Events, Celebration, Groups of People, Candid photos) *Please NO self/group portraits
For additional information and to view the complete contest guidelines, please click HERE. The deadline to submit photos is Friday, November 7, 2014. |
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Are you Weather-Ready?
 With the start of June begins Hurricane Season. Are you Weather-Ready? Hurricanes and tropical storms can be devastating to the Georgia coast. An array of powerful impacts from storm surge, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding could cause catastrophic damage. It is imperative to prepare for each type of hurricane hazard. Advance planning and preparation are essential for protecting property, reducing risk, and ultimately saving lives.
New tools, techniques, and trusted relationships are implemented throughout the National Weather Service to improve real-world communication well before the first rain drop arrives. Innovative approaches to providing this weather information include plain language confidence forecasts and interactive mapping interfaces which ultimately empower diverse decision makers to make critical and efficient decisions. These proactive weather safety actions are making differences to communities across America, making the country as a whole a Weather-Ready nation. A hurricane guide is one tool that the National Weather Service Charleston and Jacksonville offer the residents of southeast Georgia on our quest to promote a Weather-Ready Nation.
The Official Georgia Hurricane Guide is intended as a user-friendly resource with specific instructions for you to do each step of the way, before, during, and after the storm. It also provides information on ways to improve protection for your home and property.
To view the Hurricane Guide click Here. Please use this guide to learn as much as possible about how to prepare for Georgia's most dangerous storms. |
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Approved Budget Fiscal Year 2015
Camden County Board of Commissioners voted to approved the FY 2015 Budget submitted by County Administrator, Steve Howard and Finance & Budget Director, Mike Fender. To view a copy of the Budget click Here.
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Camden Elected Officials Breakfast Roundtable
On June 20, 2014 Camden County elected officials attended a Breakfast Roundtable meeting at the Camden County Recreation Center. During the Breakfast, Camden Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director, Mark Crews gave a special presentation on the safety of our citizens. Officials learned first hand;
- The role of Camden's Emergency Management Agency
- What a local State of Emergency is
- What the local's responsibilities are
- What is a Presidential Declarations (FEMA reimbursement) and what that includes.
Prepare now in the event of an evacuation. Evacuations are more common than many people realize. As most Camden Citizens are aware Hwy 40 is a major hwy when it comes to evacuation. When community evacuations become necessary local officials provide information to the public through the media. In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens, text alerts, emails or telephone calls are used. The amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard. If the event is a weather condition, such as a hurricane, you might have a day or two to get ready. However, many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is why planning ahead is essential. Plan how you will assemble your family and supplies and anticipate where you will go for different situations. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency and know the evacuation routes to get to those destinations.
Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. Returning home can be challenging. Above all, use caution. You may be anxious to see your property but do not return to your home before the area is declared to be safe by local officials.
Officials learned how working with the County EMA will greatly benefit all citizens of Camden.
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Annual Camden County Solid Waste Authority Fishing Derby
On June 7, 2014 a total of 50 kids young and old came out with fishing poles in hand for the 21st Annual Solid Waste Authority Fishing Derby. The Derby, held at the SR-220 Landfill, has become a favorite past time for local families.
Many enjoyed hot dogs and drinks while fishing for that great big catch. Special thanks to Camden County Solid Waste Authority, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Advanced Disposal Services for donating the food, drinks, and bait.
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 Camden County Board of Commissioners would like to wish you and your family a happy and safe July 4th. Celebrate the 4th of July with a parade, fireworks display, entertainment, arts, crafts and food vendors, kids' rides, entertainment throughout the day, a street dance and one of the largest fireworks displays in Southeast Georgia. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. This year's event will include a 5K and 10K run, a 1 mile Kids Fun Run, parade, and fireworks show just after dark.
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Summer Food Program for Children 
Our Daily Bread is a proud sponsor for providing meals over the State of Georgia for children during the summer months when school is out. Program dates are from June 2nd until August 2nd. Two meals a day can be provided (breakfast, lunch/supper or snack). The food is provided at no cost.
For more information please call 912-673-6418. Lets all work together to make sure no child goes hungry.
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Camden Named Public-Private Partnership of the Year
 Camden County was recently recognized at the Association of County CG's 100 Year Celebration in Savannah and mentioned in the Georgia County Government magazine as being Georgia's County of the Year for partnership between Camden County and the University of Florida (UF) Health of Jacksonville. County was recently Providing services to help ensure constituent health and wellness is a priority of elected officials and the governments in which they serve. Camden County residents have access to advanced cardiac services on ambulances through the equipment provided by the ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) program. The new, advanced equipment on ambulances allows responders to recognize a heart attack quickly and transmit an EKG directly to UF Health of Jacksonville. The implementation of this partnership has provided additional protection for over 50,000 Camden County citizens and over 40,000 travelers on Interstate 95. |
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One of our goals is to ensure we are providing the citizens of Camden County information and a better understanding of current issues involving Camden County Government. We hope you enjoyed reading the monthly Community Outreach newsletter and found it informative. We encourage and value your feedback and any input you may have to help us improve it in the future.
By working together Camden County can continue to be "Georgia's Coastal Community of Choice."
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 Chip Keene District 1 |
 Chuck Clark District 2 |
 Jimmy Starline District 3 |
 Gary Blount District 4 |
 Tony Sheppard District 5 |
Our Commitment to You!
VISION
Helping to make Camden County the best place to be by preserving and enhancing the history and quality of life while promoting smart growth and providing an efficient, effective and responsive government.
MISSION It is the mission of Camden County Government to provide responsive, innovative, and cost effective services, promote smart growth, effectively communicate with the community, improve infrastructure and technology, preserve the health, welfare, safety, and environment while maintaining the outstanding quality of life that makes our county a desirable place to live and work.
The Board of County Commissioners and employees of Camden County are committed to the following values: Integrity, Respect, Service, Accountability, Teamwork, and Balance
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