Joel Jones receives S.C.’s Order of the Palmetto
May 20, 2025
The award recognizes a lifetime of achievement and service to the state
Joel Jones, the recently retired CEO of Renewable Water Resources (ReWa), has received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
The award is presented at the governor’s discretion to recognize a lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and contributions to the state.
“Mr. Joel Jones has spent his career improving the quality of life for South Carolinians through his leadership at Renewable Water Resources,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “His commitment to the Upstate, dedication to environmental stewardship, and expertise in water management have left a lasting impact, making him truly deserving of the Order of the Palmetto.”
Jones spent 32 years working in the water industry throughout the Upstate. He began his career as a wastewater operator trainee at ReWa and steadily advanced through positions at both ReWa and Spartanburg Water, eventually serving three years as ReWa’s CEO. He retired on April 30.
His leadership extended beyond day-to-day operations. Since 2024, Jones has chaired the Sewer Implementation Committee for the Oconee Joint Regional Sewer Authority. He also serves on the boards of Ten at the Top and the South Carolina Water Quality Association. His previous roles include board member of the Dacusville Rural Fire District and chairman of the Water Environment Association of South Carolina Biosolids Committee.
Earlier this year, Jones was named to Greenville Business Magazine’s “50 Most Influential” list. In 2024, he and ReWa received the Greenville Area Development Corporation’s Chairman’s Award for supporting numerous economic development initiatives across Greenville County. In 2017, Jones earned the Water Environment Association of South Carolina’s Golden Manhole Award for his contributions to wastewater collection system management.