AUGUSTA, Ga. () – Augusta is on the brink of a significant political transformation as the city gears up for the arrival of a new mayor and a freshly configured city commission in the coming year.
As the new commission is set to convene in January 2027, women will, for the first time in Augusta’s history, hold the majority of seats on the city commission.
Victories by Tamika Bean in District 6 and Evett Williams in the District 8 runoff ensure that women will outnumber men, with six female commissioners to four male counterparts.
This shift coincides with Steven Kendrick’s upcoming inauguration as Augusta’s next mayor, following his victory over current Mayor Garnett Johnson.
District 3 Commissioner Catherine Smith-Rice expresses that this historic change could introduce a fresh perspective and dynamic to the city’s leadership.
“I know it’s wonderful having six females,” Smith-Rice said. “We might not always agree or vote the same, but we’re going to work well together and move the city forward.”
District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson says he believes Augusta’s future is bright if city leaders work together.
“You just have to have like-minded people working together,” Johnson said. “I feel like come January, that’s going to happen.”
City leaders say major decisions are still ahead, including the city budget, infrastructure projects, public safety priorities and economic development.
One issue still looming is the redesigned Augusta charter, which was a major priority for Mayor Johnson but did not make it to the state capitol in time to be placed on the November ballot.
Jordan Johnson says the charter conversation could continue, even under new leadership.
“The charter conversation was a good one to have,” Johnson said. “If we still want to have a conversation about the future of Augusta and the role that we try to place, we’re well within our right to do so.”
Smith-Rice says she also wants to see the charter discussion return.
“I hate to see it fall by the wayside,” Smith-Rice said. “I want to bring back the charter. I feel that we need a new charter.”
With new leaders preparing to take office, the question now is how the new balance of power will shape Augusta’s future.