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 FAQsYes, 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.
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, 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.
Certain items, like prescription medications and grocery food products, are exempt from SPLOST. The exemptions are consistent with the state's sales tax policies.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.