The Power of a Penny: WHAT IS E-SPLOST?

WHAT IS E-SPLOST?

E-SPLOST is a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) for education. It is a one-cent sales tax on all retail purchases. This means that everyone who makes a purchase in the school district county, including visitors, contributes to the support of local schools.

By law, E-SPLOST can only be used for certain capital projects, such as buildings, furnishings, computers, and buses. SPLOST funds cannot be used for the day-to-day operational expenses of a school district. Dawson County currently participates in E-SPLOST as outlined by state law. By law, an E-SPLOST expires after five years unless citizens vote to renew it.

E-SPLOST does not impact property taxes or business/commercial taxes. An E-SPLOST simply adds a penny to the existing sales tax. This way, the tax burden is spread among tourists, visitors, and anyone who makes a purchase within the jurisdiction of the school district.

HOW DID DAWSON COUNTY SCHOOLS USE THE CURRENT E-SPLOST?

Dawson County Schools is closing out ESPLOST VI. The Multi-purpose facility and AgriScience Center will serve students’ needs for many years.

Funds have also provided playground equipment at all elementary schools, including an elementary school track and special needs playground.

Furniture for all schools, including furnishing new engineering and science labs, as well as media centers, and cafeterias, has also been provided by ESPLOST funds. Improvements have also been made to the Transportation Department, as well as, multiple parking lots, HVAC systems, generators, sound systems, and many other areas that will help provide for the students’ needs.

E-SPLOST HAS HELPED FUND THE FOLLOWING PROJECTS:

• Multipurpose facility

• Agriscience Center

• Cafeteria tables at DCHS, DCMS, DCJH

• Ag Truck

• Playground equipment at all Elementary Schools

• Science lab at DCJH

• Band storage at DCHS

• Classroom furniture

• Engineering lab

• Weight room

• Sound system PAC

• Improvements to Technology Center

• Improvements and furniture at the Professional Development Center

• Media Center Upgrades