Impact

In Union County, SPLOST is implemented following a voter referendum. Once approved, the county collects an additional 1% sales tax on eligible purchases. The revenue from this tax is dedicated to funding the capital projects outlined in the SPLOST proposal.

Yes, voters do have the opportunity to vote on the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). SPLOST is a financing method for funding capital outlay projects in the county that is approved by local voters. Essentially, it is a program that allows the county to collect an additional sales tax, typically 1%, that is used specifically for predetermined projects such as building new schools, improving roads, or developing parks.

Before a SPLOST can be implemented, it must first be approved by a majority of the county's voters in a referendum. This referendum is usually held in conjunction with other local, state, or federal elections to ensure a broad base of voter participation. The referendum includes detailed information about the specific projects that the SPLOST revenue will fund, giving voters a clear understanding of where their tax dollars will be spent.

SPLOST is a democratic process where voters have a direct say in whether or not they want to implement this additional sales tax for the benefit of their community's infrastructure and development projects.

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.

In Union County, the total sales tax rate is 7% on purchases, with this amount being divided among various state and local taxes, each serving distinct purposes. Here is how it breaks down:

1. State Sales Tax - 4%: This portion goes directly to the state government of Georgia. It is used for state-wide initiatives, such as funding various projects and services that benefit the entire state.
2. Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) - 1%: This is a local tax that helps offset the County’s millage rate on property taxes. The revenue from this tax is crucial for balancing the County's budget and reducing the tax burden on property owners.
3. Union County Schools’ Education SPLOST (E-SPLOST) - 1%: This sales tax is dedicated to supporting the educational system in Union County. The funds from E-SPLOST are used for crucial school-related projects, such as improving infrastructure, enhancing educational facilities, and other needs specific to the local schools.
4. Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) - 1%: SPLOST is a voter-approved, time-limited sales tax that is earmarked for specific local projects. The revenue generated from this tax is allocated for capital projects, such as building roads, improving schools, and enhancing parks and recreational facilities in Union County.

Each time you make a purchase in Union County, these taxes collectively contribute to a variety of essential services and projects. They ensure that your spending not only meets your personal needs but also supports the development of the community, encompassing everything from state initiatives to local infrastructure, education, and public safety.

Unlike property taxes, which are based on property value, SPLOST is a sales tax applied to most consumer goods and services. It is a way to fund specific projects without increasing property taxes, and it is also paid by visitors and non-residents who shop in the county.

SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax):

Purpose: SPLOST is a 1% sales tax imposed specifically to fund capital projects within a county, such as road improvements, public safety enhancements, parks, and public buildings.
Duration: SPLOST is temporary, typically lasting 5 to 6 years, and must be reapproved by voters for each new round of funding.
Approval: It is a voter-approved tax, meaning residents vote on whether to implement or continue the tax for a specific set of projects.
Use of Funds: The revenue generated from SPLOST can only be used for the specific projects listed on the ballot. It cannot be used for operating expenses or ongoing maintenance.

Other Local Taxes:

Property Tax: This is a tax on real estate, calculated based on the assessed value of property within the county. It is used to fund a wide range of local government services, including schools, police, fire services, and general government operations.
Local Option Sales Tax (LOST): LOST is another 1% sales tax, but unlike SPLOST, it is used to reduce property taxes and fund general government operations rather than specific capital projects.
Educational Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (E-SPLOST): Similar to SPLOST but specifically for funding educational infrastructure projects, such as building or renovating schools, purchasing technology, and improving facilities in the school district. E-SPLOST is also voter-approved and must be renewed periodically.
Hotel/Motel Tax: This is a tax on lodging, used primarily to promote tourism and fund local infrastructure that supports visitors, such as convention centers or marketing initiatives.

Key Differences:

Specificity: SPLOST is earmarked for specific capital projects, whereas other local taxes like property taxes and LOST can be used for a broader range of services and operations.
Duration and Approval: SPLOST is temporary and must be reapproved by voters, while other taxes like property taxes are ongoing and do not require voter reapproval.
Revenue Source: SPLOST and LOST are sales taxes, meaning they are paid by anyone who makes purchases in the county, including visitors, whereas property taxes are paid by property owners.

SPLOST is a targeted, project-specific tax, while other local taxes are broader in their application and purpose.

‍