North Augusta Council Reviews 2024 Audit Findings and Small Business Impact Podcast

In a recent City Council Study Session held on July 28, 2025, in North Augusta, key discussions centered around infrastructure improvements, community events, and the results of the city's 2024 financial audit. The meeting highlighted the city's proactive approach to addressing both immediate and long-term needs, reflecting a commitment to enhancing community safety and engagement.

One of the primary topics was the condition of a bridge located in Beck Park, which has raised concerns ahead of the upcoming Ironman event scheduled for September. Council members discussed the potential replacement of the aging wooden bridge with a more durable concrete sidewalk and pipe structure. City officials acknowledged that while a permanent solution may not be feasible before the event, temporary measures could be implemented to ensure safety for participants and spectators. This decision underscores the city's focus on maintaining infrastructure that supports community events and recreational activities.

In addition to infrastructure discussions, the meeting featured updates from the tourism manager, Carl Walhauer, who announced the release of the second episode of the "Explore North Augusta" podcast. This episode, titled "Small Business Big Impact," aims to spotlight local businesses and their contributions to the community. Walhauer also promoted an upcoming celebration in partnership with the Green Jackets, emphasizing the importance of community engagement through local events.

The session also included a detailed presentation of the city's 2024 audit results by Grant Davis from the auditing firm Mauldin and Jenkins. The audit revealed a clean opinion on the city's financial statements, indicating sound financial management. Key highlights included total assets of approximately $312 million and a net position of $107 million. The audit also noted that the city had not identified any internal control deficiencies, reflecting effective governance practices.

Council members engaged in discussions regarding the financial implications of recent expenditures, particularly those related to hurricane recovery efforts. They expressed confidence in the city's fiscal health, despite a temporary imbalance due to significant outflows for hurricane response. The anticipated reimbursements from federal and state agencies are expected to stabilize the city's financial position in the coming years.

Overall, the meeting illustrated North Augusta's commitment to addressing infrastructure needs, promoting local businesses, and maintaining transparent financial practices. As the city prepares for upcoming events and continues to navigate recovery efforts, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the community's future.