Residents criticize Augusta Commission’s behavior | The Augusta Chronicle

After a spate of arguments and public criticism hurled at the city attorney prompted Augusta Commission members to call for improved decorum and civility on the governing body, we asked readers what they think should be done.

The most frequent response, among Facebook users and readers who submitted answers via The Augusta Chronicle’s Web site, was a resounding “RESIGN.”

“Clean house!!” wrote hospital employee Sherry Tanner, of Augusta. “They are just there to listen to themselves talk, a lot like our Congress.”

Augusta musician Sean Sellars took things further. “Disband that corrupt Augusta commission … Biggest collection of crooks this town has to offer.”

Since the 1996 consolidation of Augusta and Richmond County into a government now legally named “Augusta, Georgia,” no commissioner has been indicted or even charged with a crime beyond misdemeanor domestic violence, but the 10-member commission, guided at meetings by a mayor with a limited role, is often viewed as unwieldy and inefficient.

“Break up the Augusta and Richmond County merger,” suggested Grovetown Web developer Keith Pickett. “Let each community incorporate and govern themselves.”

Hephzibah Savannah River Site technician Bob Buckner suggested replacing the government with a private company.

“Maybe we should do away with the commission and subcontract running the city to a competent management company,” Buckner said.

via Residents criticize Augusta Commission’s behavior | The Augusta Chronicle.