Proposed Capital Outlay

Needs for the School System

• Clinch County  Primary School and

    Clinch County Elementary School

• Gym (HVAC and Renovations)
• Entrance Cover/Security
• Extended Bus Loading/Unloading
• Fencing
• Additional Faculty Parking
• Clinch County Educational Complex
  • Security Cameras
  • New Fire Alarm System
  • Lock Replacement
  • Drainage
• Clinch County High School
  • Ag Science Lab
  • Science Wing/Bathrooms
  • Bleachers (Gym and Baseball Field)
• Bus Shop
  • Transportation Equipment
  • Multi-purpose Vehicle
• Central Office
  • Roofing
  • Plumbing
  • Electrical/Lighting
• System-Wide
  • Computers/Printers/Technology Equipment
• Miscellaneous
  • Playground Safety Items
  • New Fire Doors/Smoke Alarms
  • Furniture/Equipment/Furnishings/Fixtures

1.  What is an EDUCATION SPLOST (E-SPLOST)?

An Education Special Purpose Location Option Sales Tax (E-SPLOST) allows local school districts the option to ask voters for the ability to levy and to collect a one percent sales tax to help fund school improvements.  It can be used to pay for capital projects or to retire debt but cannot be used to pay operating expenses, such as salaries.  E-SPLOSTs are enacted by referendum.

2.  When is the E-SPLOST vote?

The election is Tuesday, September 15, 2009.  There will be an early voting period (September 7^th-11^th).

3.  Would the proposed E-SPLOST be a tax increase?

NO!  If approved, the sales tax for education would remain at its current level.  A “yes” vote would simply continue the current 1% sales tax for education for five years or until approved E-SPLOST funds ($4 million) are collected, whichever comes first.  Collection of the E-SPLOST extension would begin only after the current E-SPLOST ends in December, 2009.

4.  Why do we need to extend our current E-SPLOST?

There would be facility renovations and improvements at all schools.  There would also be system-wide purchases of technology, buses, and safety/security equipment.  Our citizens have actively supported education for years, and the passage of this E-SPLOST extension would be a strong demonstration of continued school support by our community.

5.  Why an E-SPLOST?

The education SPLOST is not a property tax.  It provides a method of funding the cost of educational improvements and retires bond debt in which everyone, not just property owners, contributes.  Additionally, the sales tax is paid by everyone who shops or stays in Clinch County.

6.  What would the school system do with the money raised from the SPLOST extension?

As stated in #4, renewal E-SPLOST funds would be used to improve all schools.  Some of the projects at the Clinch County Primary/Elementary School include gymnasium renovations, entrance cover/extended bus loading, and additional parking.  At the Clinch County Educational Complex, drainage, lock replacement, and security cameras would be priorities.  Projects at Clinch County High School include an Ag science lab, science classrooms and gymnasium bleachers. Roof, plumbing, and electrical improvements would be made at the Central Office.

7.  How much money would be raised and how long would this sales tax be in place?

The E-SPLOST extension is for a $4 million limit or five (5) years, whichever comes first.

8.  Why is the school system proposing to sell bonds in the E-SPLOST extension?

By selling bonds, the school system will be able to immediately address important student needs.  Bond money would allow the system to start construction on several projects instead of waiting for the proceeds to be collected.  The sale of bonds also helps lock out inflation costs for construction.

9.  Why isn’t the money being used for teacher salaries and curriculum development?

State laws prohibit using E-SPLOST proceeds for salaries or instructional materials.  However, passing this sales tax will free up funds to meet required financial obligations without having to rely on excessive ad valorem taxes.

10. Has the current E-SPLOST been a success?

YES!  A new instructional wing was constructed and the HVAC system replaced at Clinch County Primary/Elementary School.  At Clinch County High School, athletic facilities were upgraded.  Plumbing and electrical upgrades were made at the Clinch County Educational Complex.

11.  Why should people who do not have children in school support the E-SPLOST extension?

The E-SPLOST extension keeps ad valorem taxes stable.  Additionally, the children are not the only ones who benefit from good schools.  The social and economic strength of a community are greatly influenced by the school system.  Good schools mean well-prepared citizens, a strong labor market, and an inviting atmosphere for both living and working.  One of the key questions asked by industrial/commercial or residential prospects looking to move into a community is, “What is the quality of the schools?”

12.  Why have a special election on September 15^th rather than waiting to vote on the E-SPLOST during the next general election?

Approval of an extension to our current E-SPLOST is a critical local issue.  By voting now, we would be able to move ahead with the planned projects.  This would ensure a seamless extension of the current E-SPLOST.

13. What would happen if the E-SPLOST did not pass?

Without the extension of the current E-SPLOST, most of the badly needed proposed projects could not be accomplished.  The Board of Education would have to consider a property tax increase.

14.  Is this E-SPLOST different from the Clinch County Board of Commissioners’ SPLOST?

YES!!  The Education SPLOST is a special purpose tax approved by the citizens for improvements of school facilities, debt reduction, and equipment.  The County SPLOST is a special tax designed to fund county projects identified by the Clinch County Board of Commissioners.