What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Counsel position at Augusta-Richmond County?
Woodrow Wilson or the Augusta Museum of History. The city’s revitalized downtown area is a bustling center of activity, featuring locally owned shops, award- winning restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. Annual events like the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival and the Westobou Festival highlight the city’s vibrant cultural scene, drawing crowds to celebrate music, art, and food.
Education and innovation are at the forefront of Augusta’s growth. The city is home to Augusta University, a leading research institution, and several other colleges and technical schools, fostering a highly skilled workforce. Augusta’s healthcare sector is equally impressive, anchored by the Augusta University Medical Center, which is renowned for its cutting-edge research and patient care. With a cost of living below the national average and a range of housing options—from historic homes to modern developments — Augusta offers an exceptional quality of life for professionals and families alike.
Augusta’s strategic location adds to its appeal. Situated just a short drive from Atlanta, Savannah, and Charleston, the city provides easy access to major metropolitan areas while maintaining its distinct character. The Augusta Regional Airport offers convenient travel options, and the city’s proximity to Interstate 20 ensures seamless connectivity. Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, cultural offerings, or economic opportunities, Augusta is a city that invites you to put down roots and thrive.
As Augusta continues to grow and evolve, it remains a community that values collaboration, diversity, and progress. For those seeking a rewarding career and a welcoming place to call home, Augusta offers the perfect balance of opportunity and tradition.
Augusta-Richmond Government
Augusta operates under a consolidated government structure, merging city and county services to create an efficient and unified administration. The Augusta- Richmond County Commission consists of ten district- elected commissioners and a Mayor elected citywide, all serving staggered four-year terms. The Commission is responsible for setting policies, enacting ordinances, and approving the city's annual budget, ensuring the growth and well-being of the community. While members may have differing perspectives, they work collaboratively to serve the best interests of Augusta’s residents and businesses.
The City Administrator, appointed by the Commission, oversees Augusta's daily operations, implementing policies and managing municipal services. Additionally, the City Attorney provides legal guidance to both the Commission and the Administrator, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal laws. With a budget exceeding $1 billion, Augusta provides a wide range of essential services, including public safety, community development, infrastructure, and utilities.
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Responsibilities:
•Represent Augusta-Richmond County in legal proceedings and administrative hearings, advocating effectively for the county's interests in all legal forums.
•Attends commission and board meetings to provide legal advice and ensure adherence to laws and regulations.
•Draft, review, and approve contracts, expenses, ordinance, and legal documents for Augusta-Richmond County.
•Manage outside counsel and ensure cost-effective legal services, negotiating favorable rates, and monitoring performance to maximize value.
•Advise on policy development, compliance, and risk management, helping to shape policies that are legally sound and minimize potential liabilities.
•Train elected officials and staff on legal matters, policies, and regulatory compliance and supervise the Law Department, including attorneys and administrative staff.
•Minimum of seven (7) years of legal experience, including four (4) years in local government
•Active membership in the State Bar of Georgia, Georgia Court of Appeals and Georgia Supreme Court
•Demonstrated expertise in municipal law, litigation, and budget management, with a proven track record of success in these key areas
•Experience in drafting and negotiating contracts, agreements, and other legal documents
Salary is negotiable and will be dependent upon qualifications. Augusta-Richmond County offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, flexible spending account, an employee wellness center, and other offerings. Augusta participates in the Georgia Municipal Employee Benefits System 401(a) Defined Benefit pension plan and offers a voluntary 457(b) and Roth Deferred Compensation program.
