Special Called/Augusta Committee Meeting

The Augusta, Georgia Special Called Committee Meeting on August 26, 2026, focused primarily on fiscal and infrastructure issues. Key procurement-related actions included the approval of a 10-year lease renewal for the Pineucky Shooting Range with Pine Ski and Trap Club, Inc. The committee also discussed the 2026 millage rate, with detailed presentations on rollback rates, tax caps, and the impact of recent state legislation (Senate Bill 33) on future millage calculations. Commissioners debated whether to adopt the rollback rate or increase it to rebuild the fund balance, with a motion ultimately made to adopt the rollback rate for 2026. The meeting also addressed infrastructure maintenance concerns, specifically the backlog and prioritization of repairs for uneven manhole covers and roadways, with commitments to follow up on work order statuses and risk management claims. Additionally, a grant-funded proposal to establish a full-time city arborist position in partnership with the University of Georgia was introduced, aiming to improve long-term tree canopy management and reduce costs currently spent on contracted arborist services. The administration indicated plans to return with more details on this position at the next commission meeting. Overall, the meeting combined budgetary decisions affecting future procurement and capital projects with operational discussions on infrastructure maintenance and grant-supported staffing enhancements.