Public Safety
SPLOST projects are enhancing protection and emergency response in Union County, GA.
Improving Public Safety for Our Community
The SPLOST program is making a difference in public safety by funding crucial projects and providing enhanced emergency response facilities and equipment.
Enhanced Emergency Response Facilities and Equipment
Through SPLOST funding, Union County has been able to upgrade its emergency response infrastructure, including the construction of advanced fire stations and the acquisition of state-of-the-art firefighting equipment. These improvements significantly reduce response times to emergencies, ensuring quicker and more effective assistance to residents in need. Additionally, SPLOST has facilitated the procurement of new, technologically advanced police vehicles and equipment, enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement to maintain public safety efficiently.
Upgraded Roads and Traffic Systems for Safer Commutes
SPLOST investments in Union County's transportation infrastructure have led to the renovation and expansion of critical roadways, reducing traffic congestion and minimizing the risks of accidents. These projects include widening roads, improving intersections, and installing modern traffic signals. Better roads not only facilitate smoother commutes but also ensure that emergency vehicles can navigate more effectively during critical responses, thereby improving overall public safety.
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Public Safety Projects Funded Through SPLOST
Fueling Our Firefighters, Ensuring Our Safety
SPLOST FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the SPLOST program in Union County, GA.
See All FAQsIf 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.
Yes, many other counties in Georgia utilize the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). In 2023, out of the 159 counties in the state of Georgia, 155 counties had a SPLOST. SPLOST is a popular tool for funding specific capital projects in Georgia counties and cities. The reasons for its widespread adoption include:
- Flexibility in Funding Projects: SPLOST allows counties to fund large-scale projects without the need for federal or state funding, giving them more control over local developments.
- Voter Approval: Since SPLOST must be approved by voters in a referendum, it ensures that the tax is only implemented when there is public support for the proposed projects.
- Burden Sharing with Non-Residents: Because SPLOST is a sales tax, it is paid by anyone who makes eligible purchases within the county, including tourists and visitors, not just the residents. This spreads the cost of local improvements more widely.
- Avoiding Increases in Property Taxes: SPLOST can fund projects that might otherwise require an increase in property taxes, making it a more palatable option for many voters and officials.
- Time-Limited and Project-Specific: SPLOST is implemented for a specific time period (usually five to six years) and can only be used for the projects listed in the referendum. This specificity and time limitation often make it more acceptable to voters.
The use of SPLOST is common in both urban and rural areas across Georgia, as it provides a practical way to finance important local projects, such as road improvements, school building renovations, park development, and emergency services upgrades. Each county’s SPLOST plan is tailored to its unique needs and priorities, reflecting the specific goals and projects that local residents and officials find most important.
The Georgia Department of Revenue collects SPLOST funds through the regular sales tax process and then distributes them to Union County. The County manages these funds, ensuring they are used solely for the voter-approved projects. Regular audits and public reports maintain transparency and accountability.
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.
Union County provides updates on SPLOST projects and spending through its website, local news releases, and public meetings. The county may also publish newsletters or annual reports detailing the progress and financial status of SPLOST-funded projects.