News 12 at 6 o'clock, November 6, 2009

AUGUSTA---Augusta's more than $8 million deficit fueled rage at today's Commission meeting.

Community activist Woody Merry went before the Augusta Commission suggesting ways to save money, only to be silenced in a matter of minutes.

"It was your job to get our money back," chastised Merry.

"Time is up," said city administrator Fred Russell after a 4 minute scolding from Merry.

"No sir," replied Merry.

"Because you started late," Russell said.

The exchange came after city administrator Fred Russell recommended a new plan that would slice $1 million from the sheriff's office. Parks and recreation would face cuts of more than $300,000. A planned tax increase would be decreased to just over $3.00 a year on a $100,000 home.

"This is not the way a government is supposed to be run," Merry told News 12. "I am angry for the taxpayers. I am angry for myself. I am angry because they are doing us wrong and they are not listening to the citizens."

Merry presented a packet with suggestions that he said would save the city millions. He proposed privatizing Augusta's procurement department and the Augusta Municipal Golf Course among other things.

The budget workshop continues Monday, November 9.