Augusta approves Tetra Tech contract amendment as FEMA/GEMA reimbursements arrive

The Augusta Commission approved a change order extending Tetra Tech's engagement on Hurricane Helene cost-recovery work through Dec. 31, 2026 and increasing the not-to-exceed amount by $75,000.

Tucker Conklin, a Tetra Tech representative, told the commission the firm has supported the city's FEMA/GEMA reimbursement efforts since the early recovery period. He said the city had an estimated $83,600,000 in total eligible costs, that $75,900,000 had been obligated by federal and state agencies and transmitted to the state, and that about $46,000,000 had already been reimbursed to Augusta. "This program is, at its core, a reimbursement program, not a funding source," Conklin said, explaining that the city must document and submit expenditures to draw down approved funds.

City staff said the change order (number 3) would extend the period of performance to Dec. 31, 2026 and add an additional not-to-exceed $75,000 to the existing contract with Tetra Tech to continue documentation and reimbursement support. Commissioners asked whether certain items (for example, canal-embankment tree damage) could be captured under FEMA eligibility; Tetra Tech and staff said programmatic eligibility issues remain under review by FEMA/GEMA.

The Commission voted to approve the amendment; the transcript records the motion carried with two commissioners absent from the vote.

Why it matters: Continued consultant support helps the city document eligible costs and pursue federal and state reimbursements that offset local expenditures for storm recovery. The figures discussed indicate substantial obligations and reimbursements already in process.

Next steps: Staff and Tetra Tech will continue coordinating with FEMA and GEMA to finalize eligible items and draw down remaining obligated funds.