With elections just five months away, a third candidate has jumped in the race for Super District 9 on the Augusta Commission.
Lucas V. Johnson, an account specialist with Hoover Treated Wood Products, has filed a declaration of intent to accept campaign contributions.
“It’s time for a new face with a fresh perspective on the commission,” Johnson said. “I believe our government should be honest, transparent and accountable for the actions and expenditures that are made. If elected, I will do everything in my power to see that comes to fruition.”
Johnson would join the small group of commissioners to seek a complete audit of the government.
The commission recently authorized funding to hire an external firm, UHY, to audit one quarter of city departments each year for four years, but later rejected the firm based on its price tag.
“I will push for a full forensic audit of our city’s government to ensure each tax dollar is used to its utmost,” he said.
He joins former Commissioner Marion Williams in challenging Francine Scott, the retired state employee elected to the post in 2020.
Johnson, 31, was the youngest of 11 candidates for Augusta mayor last year. The husband of Rebecca, he has a son, Reagan, a son due in May and a dog, Baylor.
Super District 9 spans downtown and much of south Augusta, encompassing regular districts 1, 2, 4 and 5.
Johnson said his goals for the district include upgrading infrastructure and maintaining positive relationships.
“I plan on bringing additional attention to our city’s aging infrastructure, blight and wasteful spending, while maintaining a positive relationship with the commission and department leaders,” he said.
Johnson, an Augusta native, attended Columbia County schools before returning to live on Lumpkin Road. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Augusta University.
Augusta has five commission seats up for election May 21, 2024 and so far, only the District 9 race is contested.
If no contender gets more than 50% of votes, the contests go to a June 18 runoff.
