Augusta commission approves $5.6 million more for storm damage

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Cleaning up after Helene is getting millions of dollars more expensive in Augusta.

Augusta commissioners approved another $5.6 million for the recovery. City leaders say this is not for the on going debris pickup.

The money is for tree removal in the days right after the storm and to repair damage to city property.

“The immediate push right after the hurricane took place is what we were asking for funding for because we already had on call contractors that were already employed by us, and we just asked them to provide that assistance. Also, the ancillary costs we have for damages for our respective properties,” said City Administrator Tameka Allen.

Meanwhile, Mayor Pro-Tem Brandon Garrett saying he is stepping aside for what he called a short-term absence.

Garrett said there are personal issues affecting his family and his spiritual mental health.

He’s asking for prayers and says he is looking forward to returning to the commission.

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