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 FAQsUnlike 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.
No, Union County has not designated any Level One projects. While some of the Union County SPLOST projects have been eligible to be designated as Level One projects, the county did not designate them as such in the ballot question or the IGA documents.
SPLOST 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.
SPLOST can positively impact local businesses by improving infrastructure and public amenities, which can attract more customers and enhance the overall business environment. However, businesses must collect the additional sales tax, which might slightly increase the cost of goods and services for consumers.
Our Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) has proven to be a significant source of revenue for Union County. Union County’s monthly average in our current SPLOST is $617,892, which averages just over $7.4 million in year. This substantial amount reflects our community's active participation and contribution toward the development and betterment of our County.
Furthermore, since the inception of the current SPLOST, we've successfully secured $3.5 million in matching funds. This additional financial support amplifies the impact of our SPLOST, enabling us to undertake larger and more beneficial projects for our community.
These funds play a crucial role in financing a variety of public projects, ranging from infrastructure improvements to enhancing public facilities, all aimed at elevating the quality of life in Union County.