AUGUSTA, Ga. - The city of Augusta will no longer fund the operation of the Botanical Gardens.

Augusta-Richmond County Commissioners voted nine to one not to renew the garden's six month lease.

City leaders say that means the gardens could close in January, unless the state decides to fund it again.

Commissioner Betty Beard expressed her concern, saying it's a shame to lose something the city has worked so hard to keep.

But Mayor Deke Copenhaver said the city has done all it can do to hold on to the Gardens.

"It's a sad thing but as I shared with somebody today, it's hard to promote the city continuing to fund what is ultimately a state owned facility," said Copenhaver.

The Botanical Gardens and Georgia Golf Hall of Fame closed in July of 2007 due to state budget cuts.

The city took over funding for the Botanical Gardens in January.

It has cost the city about $77,000 to run the gardens.