Steven Kendrick's first order of duty Friday morning after being sworn in as tax commissioner: clear up misconceptions about what he does.

"My office does not raise taxes," he said. "If you got a problem with your taxes, call Fred Russell."

The businessman joked with family, friends and city officials, and thanked them for their support in his campaign.

"I am truly thankful to see so many taking time off work and their vacations for me," he said to a packed courtroom at the Augusta Municipal Building. "I have a talented group of people in that office, and we're ready to do business for Richmond County."

Mr. Kendrick, 40, is the only city official to be sworn in this year, and will take over as tax commissioner after Jerry Saul held the position for 31 years.

Judge David Watkins, who swore in Mr. Kendrick, said his new ideas and perspective will be an asset to the city.

"His swearing in shows that one; color is not a barrier in serving this community, and two; youth is also not a barrier," Judge Watkins said.

Augusta Commissioner J.R. Hatney said Mr. Kendrick serving as tax commissioner will be historic for Richmond County.

"We're living in an era we've never seen before," he said. "Thirty years ago this would never have happened. "

His jovial spirit and welcoming personality will connect well with taxpayers, Mr. Hatney said.

His background in business and advancing the development of Augusta as chairman of the Downtown Develop- ment Authority will also be beneficial, said Commissioner Betty Beard.

"He's a very qualified man that happens to be black," Mrs. Beard said. "Augusta should be ready for him, because he's ready for Augusta."

Studying the everyday operations of the tax commissioner's office over the past five months has prepared him for the job, Mr. Kendrick said.

The tax commissioner's office works with more customers daily than any city office, so great service is one of his top goals.

"We have to work with customers one-on-one, so I want to make sure we do our best to be expedient, pleasant and active," he said. "We really are the face of government for the people of Richmond County."

Mr. Kendrick said he plans to start a tax exemption campaign this year to ensure all taxpayers are aware of money they can save.

Employees at the tax commissioner's office are excited to carry out Mr. Kendrick's ideas, said Judy Curtis, delinquent tax manager.

"He's energetic and motivated, and I think we really need that," Mrs. Curtis said. "This is a new era for us. It's going to be great."