Former Augusta leaders voice support for mayor vote referendum

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – It would be something brand new for Augusta’s mayor, supported by a who’s who of former city leaders.

“This does not advocate for a strong mayor. It does not advocate for any expanded powers authorities or duties of the mayor, but I feel strongly the mayor should have a vote,” said Mayor Garnett Johnson.

In May, Augusta voters will decide whether the mayor should have a vote like the other commissioners.

Right now, the mayor can only vote if there is a tie.

“Simply vote yes to give the mayor the opportunity to vote on all public policy matters that drive the city of Augusta Georgia,” said former Augusta mayor Hardie Davis.

Since consolidation, a single commissioner can avoid voting and prevent the mayor from being the sixth vote to decide an issue.

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“Here in Augusta, we’re not a representative democracy if the one person approved by the entirety of Augusta citizenry can be blocked by commissioners,” said former Augusta mayor Deke Copenhaver.

Former state senator Charles Walker was the main author of the consolidation bill and understands some in Augusta will question changing the way the commission operates.

“I think that time has changed. They have every right to be skeptical, but the thing is this is the right thing to do,” said Walker.

Right now, there is not a permanent city administrator in place because of a commissioner abstaining preventing the mayor being the sixth vote for his candidate, but this is not a new issue.

“I won this election on June 21st, 2022. I received a phone call from a city commissioner on June 23rd to inform me he would never let me vote on anything,” said Mayor Johnson.

The campaign is on to allow a mayor vote, but that will require city voters to say yes.

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