
Camden and the surrounding area Launch Community Housing Study Survey to Support Future Growth
Camden, Arkansas 5/23/25 — The Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development (OPED), Housing Committee is launching a Community Housing Study Survey to understand better the current and future housing needs of our area. This vital initiative will gather feedback from residents, workers, and stakeholders to help guide planning decisions and support sustainable growth in our community.
Why the Survey Matters
As our area continues to grow and evolve, ensuring access to quality, affordable, and appropriate housing for all residents is a top priority. The survey will provide valuable insights into:
• Current housing challenges facing residents
• The types of housing needed now and in the future,
• Preferences for housing location, design, and affordability
• How housing intersects transportation, jobs, and community services
“Our goal is to make informed decisions that reflect the real needs of the people who live and work here,” said James Lee Silliman, Executive Director of OPED. “Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, business owner, or planning to move to our community, your input is critical.”
Planning for Growth
The data collected through the survey will be used to shape housing policies, guide development strategies, and support grant applications for funding future projects. It will also help ensure that housing growth is aligned with plans for infrastructure, transportation, and community services.
How to Participate
The survey is open from 5/27/25 to 7/1/25 and can be accessed online at the following website:
www.explorecamden.com
Or by entering the following into your search bar.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CamdenARCommunityHousingSurvey
The survey can also be accessed by scanning a QR Code on paper copies available at area restaurants, churches, businesses, clinics, hospitals, libraries, East Camden businesses, OPED, the Camden Chamber, Camden City Hall, East Camden City Hall, and the County Courthouse. The survey link will be posted on social media, as well as on the City of Camden's, the Ouachita Partnership for Economic Development's, and the Camden Regional Chamber of Commerce's websites. All responses are confidential, and the survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete. To participate, one must be a resident of Ouachita County, 18 years or older.
Let Your Voice Shape the Future of the Camden area.
Everyone deserves a safe, suitable place to call home. By participating in the Community Housing Study Survey, residents are helping build a stronger, more inclusive community for today—and for generations to come.
For more information, contact: James Lee Silliman, Executive Director, 870-836-2210
director@teamcamden.com oped@att.net www.explorecamden.com


The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Ouachita County until 11:45 a.m. Saturday.
For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of the building you are in.


The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Ouachita County until 11:15 a.m. Saturday.
For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of the building you are in.

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for Ouachita County until 4:00 a.m. Saturday.
Primary threats include:
•A few tornadoes, with a couple of intense tornadoes likely.
•Large hail up to two inches in diameter.
•Damaging winds up to 70 mph.
To receive free weather alerts sent to your mobile phone or landline, sign up for CodeRED alerts on Camden Fire Department website at: www.camdenfd.com/severe-weather
A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. If you are in the watch area, be sure to monitor the National Weather Service, your NOAA Weather Radio, or local news for more information on threatening weather conditions and additional severe weather watches or warnings.

🚨 Tornado Watch Issued 🚨
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for Ouachita County until 9PM 04/04/2025
🌪 Watch vs. Warning:
• A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. Stay alert and be prepared.
• A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately!
Stay weather-aware and have a safety plan in place! ⛈

🚨 Tornado Watch Issued 🚨
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for Ouachita County until 10PM
🌪 Watch vs. Warning:
• A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop. Stay alert and be prepared.
• A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately!
Stay weather-aware and have a safety plan in place! ⛈

The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Warning for southwestern Ouachita County until 8:00 p.m.
THIS IS FOR A CONFIRMED TORNADO!
At 7:36 p.m., a confirmed tornado was located over Waldo, moving northeast at 45 mph.
Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged or destroyed. Damage to vehicles and wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees is likely.
Locations impacted include, but are not limited to: Stephens, Troy, and Ogemaw.
Take cover now! Move to a storm shelter or interior room on the lowest floor of the building you are in. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.


The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for Ouachita County until 12:00 midnight Wednesday.
THIS IS A PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION!
Primary threats include:
•Several tornadoes, likely including a few intense tornadoes.
•Damaging winds up to 80 mph likely.
•Large hail up to two inches possible.
To receive free weather alerts sent to your mobile phone or landline, sign up for CodeRED alerts on our website at: www.camdenfd.com/severe-weather
A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. If you are in the watch area, be sure to monitor the National Weather Service, your NOAA Weather Radio, or local news for more information on threatening weather conditions and additional severe weather watches or warnings.

Lifeguards wanted!


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Catch up with the latest stories, events, and news updates in City of Camden. If you haven't already, download our app!
Download for Android https://bit.ly/3sK83bE
Download for iPhone https://apple.co/3SSdCzy

We are loving our new app! Access documents, news updates, and get push notifications right from your phone.
Download for Android https://bit.ly/3sK83bE
Download for iPhone https://apple.co/3SSdCzy

FYI - from storm during the night, please note:
The red light at Topper (Hwy 7 and Fairview Rd) is not working. 4 Way Stop Signs are in place, use caution.
Please avoid these areas as trees are down:
1. Progress between Adams Ave and the railroad tracks.
2. Avon between Pierce Street and North St.
3. Cedar Street
4. Cash Rd between California Ave and Believers Church - not completely blocked. Use caution when trying to go around.
Our crews are on the way out and will clear as quickly as possible. A couple of these have utility lines in them and we have to wait on Entergy to come remove the lines.
We will keep you updated on any changes.

A message from the Director of Camden Water Utilities


Headshots! See this link for the importance of headshots!
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/importance-professional-headshot-giancarlo-pawelec/


Small business questions? Wondering how to get started? Attend!


The Chamber of Commerce presents:


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In the dark? Report your street right that are out!
