News Summary
The West Augusta Alliance is reviewing amendments to the Augusta-Richmond County charter, amid rising calls for transparency and governance reform. Key discussions include potential shifts to a ‘strong mayor’ model and greater authority for mayors compared to city managers. Trust erosion among residents highlights the need for clearer communication regarding the review process. Community feedback is being sought, as perspectives on charter changes vary widely, with concerns about representation and power dynamics. Upcoming discussions will include survey results and further public engagement as the committee navigates proposed governance adjustments.
Augusta – The West Augusta Alliance convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss proposed amendments to the Augusta-Richmond County charter, which has been in effect since its signing in 1995. This charter facilitated the merger of Augusta and Richmond County and is now under scrutiny as community members voice concerns over transparency and governance structure.
Key changes being considered include modifications to the authority of commissioners regarding hiring, firing, and oversight of various departments. The charter committee is specifically examining whether the city should adopt a “strong mayor” model or retain a city manager with expanded powers. Marcie Wilhelmi, who leads the charter review committee, highlighted the critical nature of these decisions and the potential repercussions of incorrect choices.
In light of a noted erosion of trust between certain community members and the charter review committee, there is a growing demand for greater transparency in the review process. Gayla Keesee, co-president of the League of Women Voters of the CSRA, emphasized the necessity for clear communication to build trust with residents, expressing that the ambiguity surrounding the committee’s procedures is a concern.
The responsibilities and authority of the mayor as compared to that of a city manager have also been a focal point of discussions. A significant question raised by community members is who would hold the power to hire and fire city employees under any new governance model. The charter committee is anticipating that their meetings will continue over the next six to eight months, which will allow for additional public input and engagement.
In an effort to gauge public sentiment, the committee released a survey that collected opinions from the community until July 31, 2025. The results of this survey are expected to be discussed at the next committee meeting on August 21, 2025. Many residents are expressing skepticism regarding how the review committee’s recommendations will be processed following their completion. There is confusion over whether proposed changes will be presented to the commission or sent directly to the state government.
Community discussions have revealed a diversity of opinions on the need for changes to the charter and if the proposed adjustments adequately meet the public’s demands. The possibility of establishing a city manager’s role has been discussed as a means to create a more professional and efficient governance structure. However, committee members are also facing scrutiny for their selections and potential conflicts of interest, with calls for a more representative and accountable process.
Former officials from Augusta have contributed their perspectives, advocating for limitations on mayoral powers while supporting the maintenance of the current governance structure. They voiced concerns over unchecked authority and highlighted the importance of ensuring representation for the increasingly diverse Black population in the area.
The recommendations developed by the Augusta Charter Review Committee will ultimately be subject to voter approval in a referendum after they are reviewed by both the commission and the state legislature. The outcomes of these discussions and subsequent decisions are poised to shape the future governance of Augusta-Richmond County as stakeholders continue to navigate public concerns and expectations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Residents Raise Concerns at Augusta Charter Review Forum
Tanya Barnhill-Turnley Sworn In as District 4 Commissioner
Tanya Barnhill Turnley Sworn in as New Interim Commissioner for District 4
Tanya Barnhill Turnley Sworn in as Augusta District 4 Commissioner
Augusta Invites Residents to Budget Input Meetings
Augusta Faces Community Distrust Over Charter Review Process
Augusta Residents Debate Local Government Structure
Community Discusses Local Government Improvement in Augusta
Charter Review Process Begins in Augusta
Alvin Mason Resigns from Augusta Commission Amid Health Issues
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Augusta Charter Review Forum
- WRDW: Augusta Charter Review Meeting
- WJBF: Residents Discuss Charter Changes
- The Augusta Press: Skepticism at Charter Hearing
- The Augusta Press: Survey on Mayor’s Power
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Google Search: Augusta charter review
- Google Scholar: Augusta charter review
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta
- Google News: Augusta charter review
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.
