Privacy Policy for the Union County SPLOST Website

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.

The duration of a SPLOST in Union County is typically five to six years, as mandated by state law. Renewal of SPLOST is subject to voter approval in a referendum, which typically occurs before the expiration of the current SPLOST.

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.

Yes, 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.

No, there is no specified limit or cap on the amount that can be collected through SPLOST. Unlike ELOST (Education Local Option Sales Tax) and TSPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax), which have defined caps on their collections, SPLOST does not have a predetermined maximum collection amount. SPLOST is designed to fund specific projects as outlined in its proposal, and the collection continues until the project requirements are met or the specified duration ends, whichever comes first. This approach ensures that the necessary funds are raised to support vital community projects and improvements without an arbitrary financial ceiling.