Dear Editor,
In communities like ours, local decisions often have the greatest impact. One of the most important tools we have to shape Putnam County’s future is the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) — which, it’s important to note, is not a new or additional tax.
SPLOST 10, on the Nov. 4 ballot, would be a continuation of the one-penny sales tax already in place, one that has served our community well for many years.
SPLOST is a voter-approved, pay-as-you-go method of funding vital infrastructure and capital improvement projects, without raising property taxes and without creating any new debt for the county.
Unlike traditional financing that uses bonds and accrues interest, SPLOST funds are collected before they are spent. That means no loans, no interest, and no financial burden is passed on to future taxpayers.
Because it is a consumption tax, both residents and visitors contribute. With our strong tourism presence around Lake Sinclair, historic Eatonton, and Lake Oconee, out-of-town dollars also help fund local priorities, a smart and fair way to invest in our shared future.
SPLOST 10 will fund essential projects across nearly every City of Eatonton and Putnam County department, including:
• Vehicles for the Sheriff’s Office
• Firetrucks and rescue equipment
• Ambulances for EMS
• Jail renovations
• Hospital equipment and facility upgrades
• Road and bridge improvements... and much more.
All projects are specified in advance and must be approved by voters, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.
SPLOST is a proven solution that keeps our community safe, strong, and well-equipped, without relying on debt or raising property taxes. It allows us to invest in long-term needs today while protecting the financial health of tomorrow.
I encourage everyone to make their voices heard at the ballot box and vote Yes on SPLOST 10. Local decisions matter. This is your opportunity to keep shaping the future of Putnam County.
Respectfully, Robbie King, President & CEO, Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce