AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Heroes’ Overlook on the Riverwalk is a place of honor, a memorial to area men and women who were awarded prestigious military medals, but now city leaders are looking at expanding the recognitions.“Yes I think it’s a good idea to honor those who were lost to Hurricane Helene. Hurricane Helene was one of the worst storms to this city,” said Commissioner Jordan Johnson.Hurricane Helene roared into Augusta in the early morning hours of September 27th, not only causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damage, but claiming seven lives in the city.
Augusta city leaders will consider a proposal to create a memorial at Heroes Overlook with the names of those who died in the storm.“Honoring people who actually lost their lives is one thing the city can recognize as being unfortunately not with us, but will always be in our hearts,” said Commissioner Francine Scott.The hurricane not only caused death and destruction, cleaning up after is coming at a tremendous cost to the city.Through the end of June, Augusta has spent $65 million on the recovery effort, but the city has been reimbursed only $35 million. This comes at the time when the city is using reserves to balance its budget.“My concern doesn’t come from Augusta, it comes from Washington. I don’t know if they have a real grasp on what we’re dealing with down here. I hope by the end of the year, we’re able to get our money back,” said Commissioner Johnson.Commissioners are scheduled to vote next week on creating the Helene memorial. The cost and where it will be located are details still to be discussed…