In a move to clamp down on violence and code violations, the Augusta Commission has scheduled a hearing Tuesday to consider revoking or suspending the business licenses of the Bon Air and Richmond Summit.
Since acquiring both properties in 2021, owner Redwood Housing has faced repeated criticism from commissioners, residents and neighbors alike over crime and living conditions. Over the last two months, the Bon Air at 2101 Walton Way has been the scene of two known shootings, one of which injured four.
Similar concerns have been raised about the Richmond Summit, 744 Broad St., where a 13-year-old boy was murdered in 2023 while picking up a food delivery. More recently a squatter was killed at the complex.
The properties, both of which are historic former hotels, are designated for elderly and the disabled. Each complex has designated Section 8 vouchers connected to the unit.
Commissioners who represent both areas have said a simple walk-through reveals Redwood isn’t properly maintaining the properties: Exterior doors are rarely secured, tenants have no air conditioning and the premises reek of smoke and urine, among other issues.
The commission put Redwood’s Bob Duke on notice at a meeting June 26 that conditions must improve, or the properties risk losing their licenses to remain open.
“Enough is enough. Too much is going on over there,” said Commissioner Catherine Smith Rice, whose district includes the Bon Air. “Every time we turn away and think everything’s going to be OK, they get slack. They need to be held accountable.”
Housing advocates have warned that taking action against Redwood puts occupants at risk of eviction. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development monitors the properties but hasn’t performed inspections in some time.
The public is invited to the hearing, which will be held at 1 p.m. July 22 in the Lee Beard Commission Chamber at Augusta Municipal Building, 535 Telfair St. The hearing will also be streamed on Augusta’s website.
