News Summary
The Augusta Commission has voted to postpone the SPLOST 9 referendum from November 2025 to May 2026. This decision aims to ensure thorough audits and fiscal responsibility as local officials address community improvement project funding needs, including road repairs and park upgrades. The postponement has drawn mixed reactions from residents and commissioners, highlighting concerns over urgent community developments and trust in the commission’s decision-making process.
Augusta, Georgia – The Augusta Commission has voted to postpone the SPLOST 9 referendum from its originally scheduled date in November 2025 to May 19, 2026. This decision was made during a recent meeting specifically focused on finalizing the project list associated with the SPLOST 9 initiative.
The motion to delay the referendum was introduced by Commissioner Don Clark and received support from Commissioner Catherine Smith Rice. The commission approved the delay with a vote of 8-2, with Commissioner Brandon Garrett noted to be absent during the proceedings. Opposing the delay were Commissioners Tobyn Lewis and Jordan Johnson, the latter of whom emphasized the urgency for businesses and communities eager for timely funding approval.
A majority of commissioners justified the delay by citing the need for thorough audits to ensure fiscal responsibility. They expressed concerns about potentially placing additional financial burdens on residents of Richmond County. The SPLOST 9 program is projected to generate over $400 million for various capital improvement projects within the Augusta-Richmond County area.
Among the projects proposed for funding through SPLOST 9 are crucial infrastructure enhancements, including road repairs, flood mitigation, park upgrades, and building repairs. Notably, an estimated $8 million will be allocated to expand the Riverwalk to the Boathouse, a project that is anticipated to significantly enhance local recreational facilities.
Mayor Garnett Johnson highlighted the importance of ensuring voters have a clear and transparent list of projects ahead of the referendum. This emphasis on transparency comes in the wake of outstanding audits related to the Housing and Community Development and Parks and Recreation departments, which have raised concerns about financial accountability.
Local residents have voiced their disappointment regarding the commission’s decision to postpone the referendum. Community advocate Patricia Ageter, founder of West Augusta Six, underscored the pressing need for the establishment of a community center funded by the anticipated tax revenue. Residents are eager for progress in community development, especially as the SPLOST 8 funding cycle ends in October 2026.
In addition to the SPLOST 9 delay, discussions at the recent commission meeting included proposals for increases in garbage rates and streetlight fees. These additional financial considerations are part of ongoing efforts to address the city’s budgetary needs.
Commissioner Wayne Guilfoyle argued in favor of the delay, stating it is crucial to build public trust and to avoid requesting additional funds before completing necessary audits. However, critics of the decision argue that delaying the SPLOST 9 referendum postpones essential community improvements and decisive action on pressing local needs. Concerns have been raised by some commissioners regarding a pattern of deferring important spending decisions, hinting at the broader implications of this repeated cycle.
As the commission works toward finalizing the SPLOST 9 project list by January 2026, the delay has sparked a mix of reactions from both constituents and officials keen on advancing community improvement projects. This postponed referendum is seen as necessary by some, while others remain anxious about the impacts of such a delay on local development initiatives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta Delays SPLOST 9 Referendum
Augusta Proposes $426 Million SPLOST Budget for Community Improvements
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Augusta Commissioners Delay SPLOST 9 Vote
- WJBF: Augusta Administrator Recommends $426 Million SPLOST 9 Project Lists
- The Augusta Press: Augusta Commission Hikes Fees, Pauses SPLOST 9
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- MSN: Diving into Augusta’s List of Needs for SPLOST 9
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
