Purpose of the T-SPLOST Tax
The sales tax, called T-SPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax), is intended to fund projects such as overpasses, bridges, and roads.
“They raise money and people have different opinions because it’s more money involved. If the money is put where it needs to be put, I don’t see nothing wrong with it,” said Louie Galban, a Valdosta business owner.
Galban said the T-SPLOST tax isn’t a bad idea, as long as the taxing doesn’t get out of control.
How Much is the Tax?
Also known as transportation special purpose local option sales tax, the total tax will equal 8 cents for every dollar spent.
City Leadership’s View on the Increase
Valdosta Mayor John Gayle, who recently received an award for his work on T-SPLOST, believes the increase is necessary because of the positive impact it will have on the Valdosta community.
“Projects such as the overpass at St. Augustine Road, it’s a $20 million project. This is the only way that we can raise that kind of money,” said Gayle.
Project Scope and Timeline
The Valdosta and Lowndes County community has developed a three-tier list of projects scheduled to run until 2028.
“People think we bring in millions of dollars on property taxes. Our share of the property tax in Lowndes County is about $11 million. That doesn’t even cover our police or fire department,” said Gayle.
First Phase Completion
With the money collected, the first phase of the project was set for completion in 2018.
“These projects aren’t going to be done until the money comes in,” said Gayle.
Impact on Businesses
Galban stated that if the taxes impact his business, he will make adjustments accordingly.
“If it does then, I’ll lower product one cent, how about that? I’ll work with the city. I will lower. Instead of charging $.99 for soda, I’ll charge $.98,” said Galban.
State Contributions
Gayle noted that the state contributed about $112 million towards these projects. This brings the total to approximately $512 million for the region to share once all funds are collected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of the T-SPLOST tax?
The T-SPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) is designed to fund transportation-related infrastructure projects such as overpasses, bridges, and roads within the local community.
How much is the T-SPLOST tax rate?
The total sales tax, including the T-SPLOST, amounts to 8 cents per dollar spent in the region.
Why does city leadership support the tax?
City leaders, including Valdosta Mayor John Gayle, support the tax because it helps fund essential projects that would otherwise be unaffordable, such as the $20 million overpass at St. Augustine Road.
What is the timeline for completing T-SPLOST-funded projects?
Projects are scheduled across a phased plan that runs until 2028. Completion depends on when tax revenues are collected, with the first phase completed in 2018.
Is the state also contributing to these transportation projects?
Yes, the state has contributed approximately $112 million toward the initiatives, bringing the projected total funding for the region to about $512 million.