The Trion City School System is asking the Trion Town Council to support placing a renewal of the Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or ESPLOST, on the November ballot to continue funding major capital improvements without increasing property taxes.

Speaking during a recent council work session, Superintendent Howard Hughes said the current ESPLOST cycle is ending, and both the Chattooga County and Trion school systems are working to renew the one-cent sales tax. The proposal would also allow Trion City Schools to seek up to $9 million in bonding authority, giving the school system the flexibility to begin major projects sooner and repay the debt with future ESPLOST collections.

Hughes emphasized the $9 million figure represents a maximum borrowing limit, not an immediate commitment to borrow that amount. He noted the district has a history of conservative financial management and has successfully used bonded ESPLOST funds for projects including the high school gymnasium and other campus improvements.

If voters approve the renewal, Hughes said future projects could include security camera and safety upgrades, classroom technology and software, land purchases, classroom renovations, continued athletic facility improvements, and eventually establishing a healthcare pathway at Trion High School to allow students to graduate with a nursing-related certification or similar credential.

The Trion Town Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the ESPLOST referendum to appear on the November ballot alongside the county school system’s renewal question. Final approval will rest with voters this fall.