Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen served as the distinguished Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on September 25th, providing an in-depth educational presentation on two crucial sales tax referendums slated for the November 4th ballot. Commissioner Allen’s address aimed to inform local voters about the potential impacts of the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) and the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) on local services and finances.

Commissioner Allen underscored the importance of an informed electorate, encouraging attendees to understand the specifics of each proposal before heading to the polls. Both referendums, if approved, would introduce a one-cent sales tax taking effect on January 1, 2026, offering distinct benefits to the county and its municipalities.

First, Commissioner Allen explained the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST). This one-cent sales tax, if approved by the voters, is primarily designed to provide significant property tax relief. The revenue generated by FLOST would be used to reduce or potentially eliminate the property tax millage rate currently allocated for the operational expenses of Chattooga County and its cities. These funds would support essential public services such as public safety, courts, general road maintenance, parks, and other vital government functions. The tax, which would partially be paid by visitors and travelers to the county, is proposed to take effect on January 1, 2026, for a period of five years. Funds would be distributed between the county and its cities based upon an intergovernmental agreement (IGA).

Next, the Commissioner detailed the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST). This second one-cent sales tax aims to create an additional, dedicated income stream for the community, reducing the county’s dependence on traditional revenue sources like property taxes for transportation needs. TSPLOST funds are specifically earmarked for improving the condition of roads and bridges throughout the county and enhancing the repaving cycle. Unlike FLOST, these funds are strictly dedicated to long-term transportation projects approved by the voters. The TSPLOST would also commence on January 1, 2026, if passed, and would remain in effect for six years, with its revenue generated from everyone purchasing goods and some services within the county.

Commissioner Allen emphasized that both referendums represent significant financial decisions for Chattooga County, with the potential to reshape how public services are funded and how infrastructure is maintained. He encouraged all eligible citizens to become fully informed on the specifics of each proposal and to exercise their right to vote on November 4th.