Page 17 - 2025 Augusta Annual Report

Department

Highlights

Economic Development & Regulatory Services

Compliance
In 2025, the Compliance Department advanced economic inclusion
through the implementation of the Minority- and Woman-Owned Business
Enterprise (MWBE) Program, creating a structured framework to expand
participation in local procurement and contracting.

More than 200 provisional certifications were issued, significantly
increasing access to contracting opportunities for local businesses across
Augusta, Georgia.

Program enhancements also included revisions to the Local Small
Business Program, now the LSBP Preference Program, along with the
launch of an online certification platform to improve accessibility and
transparency.

Business development workshops and strategic partnerships further
supported outreach, education, and continued growth within the local
business community.

Planning & Development

Augusta’s Planning & Development Department advanced strategic
growth, regulatory oversight, and economic development efforts across
Augusta in 2025. The department achieved the State’s Plan First
designation and supported the designation of Augusta as an Opportunity
Zone, reinforcing the City’s commitment to long-term planning and
investment.

The department maintained high levels of service delivery, completing
nearly 500 zoning actions and supporting daily customer demand, while
advancing major initiatives such as the update to the Comprehensive
Zoning Ordinance and adoption of the 2055 Metropolitan Transportation
Plan.

Building Division operations supported continued development activity
across Augusta, processing over 9,000 residential permits, conducting
more than 15,000 inspections, and implementing streamlined processes
to improve efficiency and customer access. Code Enforcement also
expanded operations, increasing public accessibility and managing a
significant rise in cases while improving closure rates and community
responsiveness.

Additionally, the department strengthened revenue oversight through
licensing and compliance efforts, recovering substantial funds through
audits and increasing excise tax collections year over year. Together,
these efforts support responsible growth, regulatory accountability, and
economic stability across Augusta, Georgia.

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