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Alvin Mason Resigns from Augusta Commission Amid Health Issues

Transition period in Augusta Commission after Mason's resignation

News Summary

Former Augusta Commissioner Alvin Mason has resigned due to ongoing health problems, particularly severe back issues. His resignation, effective immediately, follows a significant health scare. Mason, who served two terms and played a key role in District 4, expressed gratitude to his community and fellow commissioners. The Augusta Commission will now vote on appointing an interim commissioner and determine potential dates for a special election to fill Mason’s seat permanently.

Augusta, Georgia

Former Commissioner Alvin Mason has officially resigned from his position during a commission meeting held in Augusta, citing ongoing health issues as the main reason for his departure. Mason, 63, stated that his resignation is effective immediately. This decision comes as a culmination of health struggles, particularly severe back problems, that have plagued him for some time.

In 2024, Mason had taken a three-month leave from his duties to recover from back surgery. Recently, he experienced a health scare that left him feeling so exhausted that he slept for nearly 48 hours. In light of these challenges, Mason expressed that he felt his “mission had been accomplished” in his role as commissioner. His resignation speech included a reference to a spiritual message he claimed to have received, encouraging him to step down.

Mason extended his gratitude to his fellow commission members and emphasized his appreciation for the community he served. He believes he has done all he could for the residents of District 4, where he represented parts of southwest Augusta, including areas near Tobacco Road and Fort Gordon.

Mason’s tenure on the Augusta Commission spans two terms, during which he served a portion of the time as mayor pro tem. He first entered office in 2007 and had a significant impact on the community, benefitting from his long-standing connection through military service. He was appointed as the interim commissioner in 2021 following the legal troubles faced by his predecessor, Sammie Sias.

In the aftermath of Mason’s resignation, the Augusta Commission is set to vote on appointing an interim commissioner to temporarily fill his position. This process will require a majority vote, as six members of the commission must agree upon a qualified candidate for the interim role.

Following the appointment of an interim commissioner, a special election will be called to fill Mason’s vacancy permanently. According to the Richmond County Elections Director, the procedures for filling such vacancies are governed by Augusta’s Consolidation Act. Potential candidates for Mason’s replacement include Tanya Barnhill-Turnley, who was close to Mason and has served on the Charter Review Committee.

As the commission discusses options for Mason’s successor, potential dates for the special election are being considered, with September 16 and November 4 identified as possible dates. These elections may coincide with statewide elections, impacting voter turnout and engagement.

The Augusta Commission’s next steps will significantly shape the representation of District 4 as they move forward in the wake of Mason’s resignation. His contributions to the community and the commission will be remembered as the area looks for stable leadership in this transitional period.