Newcomers who consider Augusta-Richmond County property tax rates in relocation decisions should rest assured that the county’s tax rates remain among the area’s lowest, despite an Augusta Commission vote Monday to raise taxes. The increase, expected to generate $7.9 million to cover an operating deficit and provide employees a small, one-time bonus, sparked an outcry among some taxpayers who argued that they weren’t getting anything new in return for the annual increase, amounting to $122.50 for the owner of a $200,000 home. read more