Augusta Budget Work Session

Augusta, Georgia’s 2027 budget work session on October 28, 2026, focused on the proposed budget’s balance, recurring costs, and use of hotel-motel tax revenue. The city’s projected share of the tax was about $1.5 million for 2026 and $1.54 million for 2027. The administrator proposed a festivals and special-events grant program, with city staff administering it and a stakeholder evaluation committee and criteria to be developed; if supported, the full program would return to the commission for approval in the first quarter of 2027. The discussion also referenced reimbursing Augusta Utilities for a project, but the transcript does not clearly establish the amount or timing. No budget or procurement vote was recorded. Capital requests are to be prioritized after budget approval, with some unprogrammed funds held as contingency for major recreational capital projects.

Officials discussed the budget’s reliance on one-time funds, projected sales-tax revenue, employee health costs, a funded 3% cost-of-living adjustment, and reviews of fees and software contracts. In Housing and Community Development, officials said Right Choice Mortgage was selected through an RFQ in January of the prior year to manage city-owned rental properties. The base management fee is $95 per unit per month, with incidental charges; rental income averages about $36,000 monthly and is restricted to the relevant housing programs. The department is reviewing options to divest some properties and seeking HUD guidance. Staff agreed to provide commissioners with details on tenant eligibility and application processes. No contract award or spending motion was taken during the session.