The City of Augusta continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the health and well-being of its constituents, employees, and the broader Kennebec County community. With approximately 240 employees across departments—from public safety to childcare, community services, and economic development—the City plays a central role in shaping local health outcomes. Many departments operate on a business model, yet all share a unified focus on creating a thriving, healthy community.
Augusta invests heavily in physical activity and wellness for both residents and staff. By maintaining parks, trails, playgrounds, and recreation spaces, the City ensures that daily movement is accessible to everyone.
Employees benefit from smoke- and tobacco-free workplaces, onsite gym equipment, and wellness programming through the Maine Municipal Association. This now includes discounted YMCA memberships subsidized through the City’s wellness funds. While Cope Notes is no longer offered due to low participation, the City continues to expand mental and emotional health supports, particularly for firefighters and police officers.
To strengthen community health and safety, the Fire Department partners closely with Code Enforcement to address life-safety issues in the local housing stock. The City also educates landlords and tenants through housing mailers that explain standards and reporting processes, helping prevent unsafe conditions and reduce health risks. Augusta further supports substance use prevention and recovery by providing NARCAN across facilities, hosting annual medication take-back opportunities, and promoting 211 Maine. In addition to its OPTIONS Liaison, the City now funds its own Community Wellness Liaison to assist residents in accessing behavioral health, recovery, and social service supports.
Looking ahead, Augusta plans to expand its wellness infrastructure by promoting walking groups, offering healthier food options, sharing local resources more broadly, and exploring discreet food pantry options for employees. With continued collaboration and a growing focus on whole-community well-being, the City of Augusta remains committed to advancing a healthier future for all who live and work here.
