We're Here to Help
If you have any questions, comments, or need further information about Union County's Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) initiatives, we welcome you to reach out to us. Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with the information you need about SPLOST projects, funding, and impacts on our community.
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The fastest way to a response is by filling out the form below. Please provide your details and your question or comment, and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
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We value your feedback and suggestions. If you have ideas or thoughts on how we can improve our communication or the SPLOST program, please don't hesitate to share them with us. Your input is crucial in ensuring the success of our community projects.
Union County Courthouse
For in-person questions, you may visit the Union County Courthouse.
65 Courthouse StreetBlairsville, GA 30512
SPLOST FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the SPLOST program in Union County, GA.
See All FAQsOur Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) has proven to be a significant source of revenue for Union County. Union County’s monthly average in our current SPLOST is $617,892, which averages just over $7.4 million in year. This substantial amount reflects our community's active participation and contribution toward the development and betterment of our County.
Furthermore, since the inception of the current SPLOST, we've successfully secured $3.5 million in matching funds. This additional financial support amplifies the impact of our SPLOST, enabling us to undertake larger and more beneficial projects for our community.
These funds play a crucial role in financing a variety of public projects, ranging from infrastructure improvements to enhancing public facilities, all aimed at elevating the quality of life in Union County.
SPLOST can positively impact local businesses by improving infrastructure and public amenities, which can attract more customers and enhance the overall business environment. However, businesses must collect the additional sales tax, which might slightly increase the cost of goods and services for consumers.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
The Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) is a financing method for funding capital outlay projects in the State of Georgia. It allows counties to add a local sales tax of up to 1% to fund specific projects, such as building roads, improving schools, or developing parks. This tax is approved by local voters and can only be used for the purposes specified before the vote.
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.