Rick Osbon

Rick Osbon. He is an American businessman and politician serving as the mayor of Augusta, Georgia since January 2021. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served on the Columbia County Board of Commissioners. His tenure has focused on economic development initiatives and public safety enhancements within the Central Savannah River Area.

Early life and education

He was born in Augusta, Georgia and grew up in the surrounding Central Savannah River Area. He attended local public schools before pursuing higher education at the University of Georgia in Athens. At the university, he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and graduated with a degree in business administration. Following his graduation, he returned to the Augusta area to begin a career in the family business and local commerce.

Political career

His political career began with his election to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, where he served for multiple terms. During his time on the commission, he was involved in key regional issues, including infrastructure projects and collaborations with entities like the Augusta Economic Development Authority. He also engaged with state-level organizations such as the Georgia Municipal Association. His service at the county level established his profile as a pro-business conservative, leading to his eventual campaign for the city's top office.

Mayor of Augusta, Georgia

He was sworn in as mayor in January 2021, succeeding Hardie Davis. His administration has prioritized economic growth, supporting developments like the Augusta Cyberworks initiative and fostering partnerships with Fort Gordon and the U.S. Army Cyber Command. Public safety has been a major focus, with efforts to bolster the Augusta-Richmond County Sheriff's Office and address infrastructure needs. He has also worked with the Augusta Commission on budgetary matters and represented the city in discussions with state legislators and during events like the Masters Tournament.

Electoral history

He first won election to the Columbia County Commission in 2008. In the 2020 nonpartisan mayoral election, he defeated opponent Garnett Johnson in a runoff. The campaign centered on issues of economic recovery, public safety, and managing the city's relationship with state government under Governor Brian Kemp. He was re-elected to a second term in 2024, prevailing over challenges that focused on the city's ongoing development projects and quality-of-life issues.

Personal life

He has been married to his wife Tonia since 1986, and they have two adult children. The family is active in the local community and are members of Warren Baptist Church in Augusta. Outside of politics, he has been a longtime businessman, co-owning and operating Osbon's Office Equipment & Supply, a company with deep roots in the region. His interests include Georgia Bulldogs athletics and community service initiatives.

Category:1964 births Category:Living people Category:Mayors of Augusta, Georgia Category:Georgia (U.S. state) Republicans Category:University of Georgia alumni Category:People from Augusta, Georgia Category:Columbia County, Georgia