Residents press commissioners at budget hearing to protect libraries, parks and avoid property-tax hikes

Augusta-Richmond County residents used the commission—s public budget hearing to press elected officials on priorities they said were at risk in the proposed fiscal 2026 budget.

Moses Todd, a former commissioner, told the commission he has spoken at budget hearings since 2015 and urged officials not to shift the burden of balancing the budget primarily to property taxpayers. Todd suggested alternatives including use of special-purpose local option sales tax proceeds, a manufacturer excise tax and short-term lines of credit rather than permanent tax increases.

"I respectfully disagree with the administration and finance that the only way to do it is through cuts and through property tax increases," Todd said.

Lakeland Barnes, a resident, criticized what she described as an outsized request from the Richmond County Sheriff—s Office and warned that cutting community programs while expanding corrections capacity would harm vulnerable residents. "We're divesting from important parts of community — parks, recreation — but we're giving the sheriff's office more money," Barnes said, adding that families and food pantries need support while SNAP benefits lapse.

Emmanuel Sinclair Mitchell, director of the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library, told commissioners the library system had already faced a 12% cut ("a little over $300,000") and warned that the Diamond Lakes branch could close and bookmobile service could end if additional reductions stand. "If your cuts move forward, the Diamond Lakes Library will close," Mitchell said, urging the commission to consider impacts on third-grade reading rates and partnerships with schools.

Mayor Garnett L. Johnson and staff reopened options for the commission to consider other revenue sources later in budget deliberations. The public portion of the hearing lasted until the mayor closed the session and the body transitioned to the regular commission meeting.

Next steps: The commission will consider these public comments as it finalizes the FY2026 budget during upcoming meetings and committee work sessions.