Augusta’s discussion of relinquishing nine neighborhood parks is scheduled to return to the city commission Tuesday, alongside review of the overall budget. No park sale or closure has been authorized, and the available records do not establish how much giving up the properties would save.
An October staffing report lists 82 vacancies in Parks and Recreation, including 13 positions for park maintenance workers and supervisors. The department’s 2027 budget request seeks $850,000 to maintain grounds and repair buildings and equipment.
The city’s proposed budget also lists $14.4 million in capital requests for Parks and Recreation. Not all of that requested funding is included in the proposal.
The park discussion follows a consultant review earlier this year. The consultant described nine locations as underused and advised the city to consider relinquishing them. Its estimate of $468,000 in annual maintenance needs is several years old and does not reflect Augusta’s actual spending.
Bedford Heights is among the parks under consideration. Jim Boatwright, who lives across the street, said he regularly sees people use the park, even if it may be less busy than some others. He said neighbors help remove trash and keep the grass cut.
Victoria Sterling
News Now Georgia
