Augusta Commission approves $60K in settlements for accident claims

The Special Called Meeting of the Augusta Committee took place on March 11, 2025, with a focus on several key agenda items, including the authorization of settlements and the establishment of a charter review committee.

The meeting commenced with a brief delay as one commissioner arrived late. Once the session was called to order, the first order of business was to authorize the execution of a closed meeting affidavit, which was unanimously approved following a motion by Commissioner Alvin Mason and a second by Commissioner Dunne Clark.

Following this, Attorney Plunkett presented two motions resulting from the executive session. The first motion sought approval for the settlement of claims from Jasmine Roberts, amounting to $40,000, related to an automobile accident that occurred on January 1, 2024. This motion was also unanimously approved, with a motion made by Mayor Pro Tempore Wayne Gilfill and seconded by Commissioner Brandon Garrett.

The second motion involved the settlement of claims from Teresa Hatch for $20,000, stemming from an automobile incident on August 8, 2023. This motion was similarly passed with unanimous support, initiated by Commissioner Alvin Mason and seconded by Commissioner Francine Scott.

The meeting then transitioned to the discussion of the Augusta Georgia Charter Review Committee. Commissioner Tony Lewis raised questions regarding the seating of this committee and the submission of names through the talent bank forms as previously requested. The clerk was tasked with confirming whether the necessary names had been submitted.

In summary, the meeting effectively addressed the settlement of claims and initiated discussions on the charter review committee, with all motions receiving unanimous approval. Further steps regarding the committee's formation are anticipated in future meetings.