Transit workers in Augusta voted to authorize a strike. Members of Transport Workers Union of America Local 527 cast their ballots July 19, approving the work stoppage after talks fell apart over wages and conditions. MV Transportation has operated public bus services for Augusta Transit since January under a three-year agreement. The union called the 28-cent raise offer "paltry" given the scope of troubles plaguing the transit system. The authorization vote hands union leaders the authority to call a strike if talks stay stuck.