Early voting underway in Augusta, as voters are advised to do their homework

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Augusta early voters are finding out that doing your homework goes along way.

“Well, my wife printed out the ballot for me, so I knew who I was going to vote for,” said Berley Green.

Whether Augusta voters select a Democrat primary ballot, Republican, or non-partisan, there are a lot of choices to make.

There is the mayor’s race, five commission races and two sales tax questions.

“This is probably the longest ballot we’re had in Richmond County in the 30 years that I’ve been here. I’ve never seen a ballot quite this long with so many candidates,” said Travis Doss, Elections Director

Doss recommends voters get a sample ballot and study it before heading to the polls. It paid off for some early voters.

“It was a huge ballot, but if you prepare ahead of time and kind of print your ballot out and go over it kind of vet the candidates beforehand, it kind of goes smooth,” said Nicole Floyd

Augusta voters are familiar with the SPLOST question on the ballot, but they may need to go read up on the half-penny FLOST tax for property tax relief.

“No, we’ve never had that before. That was due to a law change a couple of years ago that allowed counties to opt in or opt out as far as giving tax relief,” said Doss.

So, voters have a decision about Augusta having another sales tax.

“Do your homework on that, because it’s going to affect your pocketbook,” said Floyd.

“Enough taxes, enough taxes,” said Green.

“You’re not a supporter?”

No,” said Green.

Early voting continues until May 15th, so there is time to get up to speed on this sizable ballot.