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Officials say Augusta has recouped most Hurricane Helene costs; debris removal largest category
Summary
Tetra Tech updated the commission that Augusta estimates $87 million in Helene damage, has submitted $79 million to FEMA and received about $34.9 million to date; $49 million has been obligated and the state has committed to paying the local share on debris and emergency protective measures.
Tetra Tech and city staff briefed commissioners on the status of Augusta’s FEMA public assistance claims tied to Hurricane Helene, reporting progress but noting remaining eligibility questions.
A Tetra Tech representative said Augusta’s total estimated damage is about $87 million; the city has submitted just over $79 million to FEMA and FEMA has obligated roughly $49 million. The city has received reimbursement checks totaling about $34.9 million, and the state currently holds an additional $14.1 million set aside for Augusta to draw down. Tetra Tech emphasized that debris removal comprises about $67 million of the estimate — roughly three‑quarters of total costs — and that FEMA expects many building and park claims to be covered by insurance, making debris removal the primary expense the city seeks reimbursement for.
The consultant said Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) has committed to pay the 25% local cost share for debris and emergency protective categories for this disaster; that arrangement lowers Augusta’s out‑of‑pocket exposure. Staff cautioned that several utility‑related projects remain under FEMA review and could affect the final obligated total.
The commission voted to approve a change order (task order change) with Tetra Tech — described as change order #2, not to exceed $300,000 — to continue recovery and FEMA submission work.
What comes next: the administration will continue to work with GEMA and Tetra Tech to push additional projects to obligation and draw down available funds, and will update the commission on any outstanding eligibility questions.
