Transforming Union County with the
SPLOST Program

Discover how the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) program is enriching quality of life, enhancing public safety, and improving infrastructure in Union County, GA.

Union County SPLOST
Quality of Life

Improving Quality of Life Through SPLOST

The SPLOST program is transforming Union County, GA by enhancing public spaces, supporting community initiatives, and fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment for all residents.

Union County SPLOST Information
Union County SPLOST Information
Public Safety

Improving Public Safety in Union County

With the SPLOST program, Union County is becoming a safer place to live, work, and play. From updated emergency response equipment to enhanced community policing initiatives, SPLOST is used to ensure the well-being of Union County residents.

Infrastructure

Improving Infrastructure Through SPLOST Investments

The SPLOST program is building and maintaining Union County's infrastructure, creating a better future for all residents.

Union County SPLOST Information

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Impact Projects

 
 
 

SPLOST Supports a Better Union County

SPLOST supports the vision for Union County, Georgia by investing in the infrastructure necessary to sustain economic opportunity, thus contributing to the community's goal of prioritizing education, supporting local businesses and institutions, and fostering prosperity and quality of life for its citizens.

Union County Vision Statement

Union County, Georgia is a hometown focused on its people, putting families first by celebrating its friendly, neighborly charm, providing a safe community, and investing in facilities and services that will provide the quality of life and opportunities for prosperity desired by its citizens.

Union County, Georgia is a rural community respectful of its history and natural beauty, recognizing the value of, and striving to preserve for generations, its mountain setting, its agricultural roots, and its Appalachian heritage.

Union County, Georgia is a community that supports its local businesses and institutions, prioritizing education, partnering with the City of Blairsville, and investing in the infrastructure necessary to sustain economic opportunity.

Union County, Georgia is a community dedicated to open and efficient governance, where residents feel welcome and vested in the well-being of their hometown through fair and bold government.

Reaching the Potential of Union County

Discover how the SPLOST program is enhancing quality of life, public safety, and infrastructure in Union County through tax contributions gathered mostly from tourism.

$5,728,984
In Revenue for Special Projects
$3.5M+
In Matching Funds from Grants
Union County SPLOST Information

SPLOST FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the SPLOST program in Union County, GA.

See All FAQs
What types of projects are funded by SPLOST?

The Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) is a funding mechanism for a variety of capital outlay projects within Union County. As outlined in O.C.G.A. 48-8-111, the scope of SPLOST is broad yet specific, focusing on long-term capital projects that benefit our community. Here are some key areas where SPLOST funds can be utilized:

  1. Infrastructure Development: This includes roads, bridges, public transportation systems, and other critical infrastructure needs. SPLOST helps ensure our County's foundation is strong and capable of supporting our community's growth and well-being.
  2. Public Safety Enhancements: Funding from SPLOST maintains and improves our County’s public safety facilities and equipment. This encompasses fire stations, police stations, emergency vehicles, and other necessary resources to keep our community safe.
  3. Recreational and Cultural Facilities: SPLOST can also be allocated toward the development and improvement of parks, recreational centers, libraries, and cultural facilities. These projects enhance the quality of life for all Union County residents by providing spaces for leisure, learning, and community engagement.
  4. Educational Facility Improvements: Although primarily managed by separate educational SPLOSTs (E-SPLOST), SPLOST funds can sometimes be directed to support educational infrastructure, ensuring our schools are well-equipped and conducive to learning.
  5. Environmental and Public Health Projects: SPLOST funds can also support projects aimed at protecting our environment and promoting public health, such as water and sewer system upgrades, waste management facilities, and public health centers.

It is important to note that SPLOST funds are strictly regulated and can only be used for capital outlay projects, not for operational expenses or maintenance. The projects funded by SPLOST are decided through a transparent process, involving public input and careful planning to ensure they meet the long-term needs of our community.

How can I get involved in the SPLOST program?

If you are interested in getting involved in the SPLOST program, there are several ways to participate. You can attend public meetings and hearings to voice your opinions and suggestions, join community organizations that advocate for specific projects or initiatives, and stay informed about upcoming SPLOST-related events and opportunities to provide input.

What is the difference between SPLOST, ELOST, LOST, and TSPLOST?

The terms SPLOST, ELOST, LOST, and TSPLOST refer to different types of local option sales taxes in the state of Georgia. Each serves a specific purpose and is used to fund different types of projects or needs within local communities. Here is a breakdown of each:

1. SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax): This is a financing method for funding capital outlay projects proposed by a county government and municipal governments. Voters in a county must approve SPLOST through a referendum. The tax is collected for a specific period, typically five to six years, to fund specific capital projects like roads, bridges, schools, parks, and other public facilities.

2. ELOST (Education Local Option Sales Tax): Similar to SPLOST, this tax is specifically designated for educational purposes. It is often used to fund school system capital projects, such as building new schools, improving existing facilities, or purchasing new equipment and technology. Like SPLOST, it is implemented for a fixed term and must be approved by voters.

3. LOST (Local Option Sales Tax): This is a general sales tax used primarily to reduce property taxes. Unlike SPLOST and ELOST, which fund specific projects, LOST revenues go into the general fund of the local government and can be used for a variety of needs, including offsetting property taxes.

4. TSPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax): This is a variation of SPLOST, specifically aimed at funding transportation-related projects. It is used to finance road, bridge, and public transit projects within a county or group of counties. Like SPLOST and ELOST, it is time-limited and requires voter approval.

What happens if SPLOST revenue exceeds its projections?

If SPLOST revenue exceeds projections, the excess funds must still be used for the specified projects. If all projects are completed and funds remain, they may be used for other capital projects as long as they fall within the scope of the original SPLOST referendum.

Does Union County have any Tier One projects in SPLOST?

No, Union County has not designated any Level One projects. While some of the Union County SPLOST projects have been eligible to be designated as Level One projects, the county did not designate them as such in the ballot question or the IGA documents.

Understanding the SPLOST Process in Union County

Allocation Overview

Funds from the SPLOST program are allocated and used in Union County.

Public Safety

The SPLOST program contributes to enhancing public safety in Union County.

Infrastructure

The SPLOST program improves infrastructure in Union County.

Quality of Life

The SPLOST program increases the quality of life for residents in Union County.