Mayor-elect names transition team, plans listening sessions across Augusta

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Mayor-elect Steven Kendrick has unveiled a wide-ranging transition team he says will help shape a practical, first-year agenda for his incoming administration.

He said he wants residents directly involved in the process.

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Kendrick on Monday introduced a coalition of community, business, faith, education, nonprofit, neighborhood and government leaders who will study key issues, gather public input and deliver recommendations for his first 90 days in office and a broader 12-month governing framework.

“This team represents an extraordinary collection of people who care deeply about Augusta and are willing to contribute their time, experience and ideas to our city’s future,” Kendrick said in a news release. “This is not intended to be an honorary committee or an exercise in simply identifying problems. I have asked these members to help us develop realistic recommendations, measurable priorities and a clear path toward implementation.”

The transition effort will be led by co-chairs Jordan Johnson and Sue Parr.

Committee leaders include:

• Economic Development: Dennis Trotter and Cedric Johnson
• Budget and Finance: Eric Gaines and Janice Allen Jackson
• Government Reform: Rob Wynn and Dr. Sheffie Robinson
• Government Operations: Stacy Pulliam and Francine Scott
• Community Reinvestment: Nomi Stanton and Gloria Norwood
• Public Engagement: Angela Bakos

Kendrick said the team was intentionally built to include different professional backgrounds and perspectives.

“They will not agree on every issue, nor should they,” he said. “A credible transition process must welcome thoughtful disagreement, test assumptions and ultimately produce recommendations that are responsible, achievable and beneficial to the entire city.”

The transition team is expected to complete its findings and recommendations in December.

Four public gatherings set

Kendrick is inviting residents to share their priorities directly with the transition team during four community gatherings in August. Each meeting will begin at 6 p.m.:

• Aug. 17 – Diamond Lakes Community Center
• Aug. 20 – Henry Brigham Community Center
• Aug. 24 – Julian Smith Casino
• Aug. 27 – Warren Road Community Center

The sessions will give residents a chance to identify community priorities, raise concerns, offer ideas and help shape the team’s recommendations.