Quality of Life
SPLOST initiatives are enhancing the quality of life in Union County, GA.
Improving Quality of Life Through SPLOST-Supported Projects
The SPLOST program has transformed Union County, GA, enhancing the quality of life for residents. From revitalized parks to upgraded community centers, these projects have made a lasting impact.
Newly Revitalized Parks
Experience the beauty and tranquility of our newly renovated parks, perfect for outdoor activities.
Upgraded Community Centers
Discover the modernized community center that offers a wide range of programs and services.
Enhancing Community Facilities, Parks, and Recreational Areas
The SPLOST program is dedicated to improving community facilities, parks, and recreational areas to enhance the quality of life for Union County residents.
Creating Vibrant Community Spaces for Everyone
Through the SPLOST program, we aim to create vibrant community spaces, ensuring that residents have access to well-maintained parks and recreational areas.
Improving Recreational Opportunities for All Ages
With the SPLOST program, we are dedicated to improving recreational opportunities for residents of all ages, ensuring a high quality of life in Union County.
Quality of Life Projects Funded Through SPLOST
Celebrating Union County's Commitment to Seniors
The Blairsville Sorghum Festival
Union County's Gem: The Community Center
Revolutionizing Community Recreation and Civic Engagement
Exploring the Heart of Union County: The Union County Public Library
Farmer's Market: Preserving Heritage and Sustaining Livelihoods
Quality of Life
Explore the projects that enhance our community's quality of life.
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SPLOST FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the SPLOST program in Union County, GA.
See All FAQsSPLOST 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.
If you're looking to dive deeper into the specifics of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), a comprehensive resource is readily available through the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG). They offer a detailed 71-page SPLOST guide on their website, which is an invaluable tool for understanding the intricacies of Georgia’s SPLOST law as outlined in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) 48-8. This guide is designed to provide clarity and insight into how SPLOST functions, its impact, and its implementation across various communities in Georgia.
The process for selecting projects for the SPLOST ballot in Union County involves a comprehensive and community-oriented approach. It includes the following key steps:
- Community Input and Needs Assessment: The County starts by gathering input from community members, local businesses, and key stakeholders. Public forums, surveys, and meetings are conducted to understand the community’s priorities and needs.
- Collaboration with Departments: Various County departments, such as transportation, education, public works, and emergency services, submit proposals for projects that require funding. These proposals are based on long-term planning, infrastructure needs, and community services enhancement.
- Feasibility and Impact Analysis: Each project proposal undergoes a thorough analysis to assess its feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential impact on the community. This includes evaluating the benefits, projected costs, and long-term sustainability.
- Prioritization and Selection: The County officials, often in collaboration with a committee or advisory group, prioritize the projects based on the community's needs, potential impact, and available funding. This process ensures that the most critical and beneficial projects are selected.
- Legal and Compliance Review: Before finalizing the list, each project is reviewed for legal compliance and alignment with SPLOST regulations. This step ensures that all projects meet statutory requirements.
- Drafting Ballot Language: Once the projects are finalized, the County drafts clear and precise language for the SPLOST ballot. This language is designed to be easily understood by voters, outlining the purpose and scope of each project.
- Public Awareness and Education: Before the referendum, the County undertakes an educational campaign to inform the public about the proposed SPLOST projects. This includes providing detailed information on how the funds will be used and the expected benefits to the community.
By following these steps, Union County ensures that the projects selected for the SPLOST ballot are in line with community needs and priorities, offering transparency and accountability in the use of taxpayer funds.
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.
SPLOST funds are designated for specific capital projects and improvements as voters approve. According to the regulations governing SPLOST, these funds cannot be directly allocated to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) operational expenses.
However, SPLOST funds can be utilized for capital expenditures within the Emergency Management Agency (EMA), a distinct entity focused on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters and emergencies within the community. This can include infrastructure improvements, purchasing of emergency vehicles, and other capital projects that indirectly support the broader emergency response framework, including EMS operations.
The Union County Emergency Management Agency is a Local Emergency Management Agency https://gema.georgia.gov/locations/union