Community leaders and officials have launched a campaign to renew Chatham County’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), with a referendum scheduled for November 4. The renewal would maintain the existing 1% sales tax, aiming to raise approximately $700 million over six years for infrastructure and public safety improvements throughout Chatham County.
The selection of proposed projects involved significant public input, targeting longstanding issues such as flood reduction, road upgrades, and enhancements in public safety. At a recent press conference, Chatham County Chairman Chester A. Ellis and Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson II were joined by municipal representatives including Tybee Island Mayor Brian West and Garden City Mayor Bruce Campbell.
Jim Collins, Chair of Citizens for Progress Committee, said: “SPLOST has transformed our community since the mid-1980s, funding projects that improve quality of life for all residents. This new round will continue that legacy, with more than 40% of the funds expected to come from visitors, reducing the burden on local taxpayers.”
If voters approve SPLOST 8, funding will support drainage and stormwater initiatives to address flooding, road improvements to ease traffic congestion, early childhood learning centers, police and fire department resources to enhance neighborhood safety, as well as pedestrian safety measures and traffic calming projects.
Early voting begins October 14 ahead of the November referendum. Additional information is available at voteyessplost.com.
