How SPLOST Works
SPLOST represents a democratic approach to local taxation and development, allowing communities to directly influence and benefit from specific improvement projects. Its success hinges on transparent management, effective communication, and alignment with the community's long-term vision.
Legal Framework
Audits and Reporting
Regular audits are conducted to ensure proper use of SPLOST funds. Annual or periodic reports are made public to maintain transparency.
Sunset Clause
Upon the expiration of the SPLOST, a new referendum is needed to extend it. If not extended, the tax ends, preventing indefinite taxation without public approval.
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Process Implementation
Voter Approval
SPLOST must be approved by a majority of voters in a local referendum. This ensures that the tax is levied only with the consent of the community.
Duration and Limit
The duration of a SPLOST is limited, often set to a maximum of five to six years, depending on the state laws. The tax automatically expires unless renewed by another referendum.
Project List
Before the referendum, the local government must prepare a specific list of projects that the SPLOST revenue will fund. This list must be shared with the public during the campaign for the referendum.
Collection and Allocation
Revenue Collection
SPLOST revenues are collected by the local government through the existing sales tax collection mechanisms.
Funds Segregation
The funds from SPLOST are kept separate from the general fund and other tax revenues to ensure that they are used only for the designated purposes.
Project Financing
SPLOST can be used to pay for projects outright, or it can be used to service debt incurred in financing large projects, allowing for immediate project commencement.
Project Planning and Execution
Project Prioritization
Local governments prioritize projects based on urgency, community impact, and other factors.
Public Involvement
Throughout the SPLOST period, the public is often involved in various stages of project planning and implementation. Regular updates and feedback channels are established for transparency.
Oversight and Management
A committee or designated public officials oversee the SPLOST program, ensuring that the funds are used as intended and projects are completed within budget and on time.
Challenges and Considerations
Equity and Fairness
There are considerations regarding the regressive nature of sales taxes and their impact on different segments of the population.
Long-Term Planning
Balancing immediate community needs with long-term infrastructure goals is crucial for effective SPLOST implementation.
Community Impact
Economic Impact
SPLOST can lead to improved infrastructure, which can attract businesses and boost local economies.
Quality of Life
Improved public facilities and infrastructure contribute to a higher quality of life for residents.
SPLOST FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the SPLOST program in Union County, GA.
See All FAQsYes, the City of Blairsville does receive funding from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). SPLOST is a financing method for funding capital outlay projects proposed by the county government and participating qualified municipal governments. In Union County, SPLOST funds are collected through a small percentage added to the sales tax on all eligible purchases within the county.
The distribution of SPLOST funds is based on an agreement among the participating entities, which typically include the county and its municipalities. The City of Blairsville, being a significant part of Union County, is included in this agreement and receives a portion of the SPLOST revenue. These funds are earmarked for specific projects that benefit the city, such as infrastructure improvements, facility upgrades, and other capital projects that have been identified and approved as part of the SPLOST program.
Union County currently has an IntergovernmentalAgreement (IGA) with the City of Blairsville, with a negotiated 8.5% of SPLOST collections going to the City of Blairsville after a 1% administration fee.
It's important to note that SPLOST funds must be used for capital projects and cannot be used for operational expenses. This means that while SPLOST can finance the construction or renovation of facilities, it cannot be used for salaries, utility bills, or general operating expenses of the city.
The City of Blairsville, in coordination with Union County, identifies and prioritizes projects that will be funded through SPLOST. These projects are typically outlined in a SPLOST referendum that voters approve. This ensures that the residents have a say in how these funds are utilized and allows for transparent and accountable management of taxpayer money.
Certain items, like prescription medications and grocery food products, are exempt from SPLOST. The exemptions are consistent with the state's sales tax policies.
When planning for the next Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) in Union County, a comprehensive and community-oriented approach is adopted. The process involves several key steps:
- Community Engagement and Feedback: Union County actively seeks input from residents, business owners, and community groups to understand their needs and priorities. This could involve public meetings, surveys, and outreach programs.
- Assessment of Needs: The County assesses the current infrastructure, facilities, and services to identify areas that need improvement, expansion, or new development. This includes evaluating roads, public safety facilities, parks, and community centers.
- Prioritization of Projects: Based on community feedback and needs assessment, the County prioritizes projects. This prioritization considers factors like urgency, impact on community welfare, cost-effectiveness, and long-term benefits.
- Budget Planning and Financial Analysis: The County conducts a detailed financial analysis to estimate the cost of proposed projects and the expected revenue from SPLOST. This step ensures fiscal responsibility and effective allocation of resources.
- Collaboration with Local Entities: Union County collaborates with local municipalities, schools, and other governmental entities to align SPLOST projects with broader community goals.
- Transparency and Accountability: The County commits to transparency throughout the SPLOST planning process. Regular updates and reports are provided to the public, detailing how funds are being used and the progress of ongoing projects.
- Adoption of a SPLOST Resolution: Finally, the County adopts a SPLOST resolution, which includes a detailed list of projects and the estimated cost for each. This resolution is then presented to voters for approval.
Through these steps, Union County ensures that the SPLOST is planned in a way that aligns with the community’s needs and priorities, supporting a robust and sustainable growth for the County.
SPLOST provides significant benefits, such as funding for infrastructure improvements, enhancements to public facilities, and development of community projects. These improvements can lead to a higher quality of life, better public services, and increased property values.
Our 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.