News Summary
Savannah residents are encouraged to participate in a new public survey aimed at gathering opinions on the proposed Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) referendum scheduled for November 4, 2025. The survey allows residents to prioritize their preferences among six crucial investment areas, including parks, public safety, and community development. With a deadline set for May 16, 2025, this is an opportunity for the community to influence vital funding decisions that will affect the city’s future.
Savannah Announces Survey for SPLOST Tax Referendum – Your Input Matters!
Exciting news for all Savannah residents! The city has just launched an innovative public survey to gather your thoughts and opinions ahead of a proposed Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) referendum set to hit the ballot on November 4, 2025. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to share your views and help shape the future of our beloved community.
What is SPLOST?
For those who may not be familiar, SPLOST is a local tax that generates funds specifically for capital improvement projects. Since its inception back in 1985, it has been a game-changer for Savannah, bringing in nearly $700 million for the city and over $1.5 billion county-wide. A fun fact—about 40% of sales taxes collected in Savannah are paid by visitors!
Survey Details
The purpose of the new survey is to identify what really matters to our community and determine the best projects for the upcoming referendum. Residents will be able to rank their priorities among six essential investment areas:
- Parks and Recreation
- Community Development
- Public Safety
- Stormwater and Drainage Projects
- Traffic and Transportation
- Municipal Investments
And if you want to make an impact, you can allocate a mock $100 budget across these investment categories. This way, you can express exactly where you feel the funding should go for SPLOST 8!
Don’t wait too long; the survey is open until May 16, 2025, so be sure to make your voice heard!
Important Timeline
Chatham County has provided local municipalities with a timeline for the SPLOST 8 referendum, and here are some key dates:
- May 23, 2025: Municipalities must submit an approved list of prioritized projects.
- July 16, 2025: An intergovernmental agreement (IGA) detailing the projects each municipality will fund will need to be approved.
This structured approach ensures that all voices are considered and that the selected projects truly reflect the needs and aspirations of Savannah’s citizens.
Addressing Community Needs
Historically, SPLOST funds have been used for vital projects like paving streets, enhancing stormwater drainage systems, and upgrading community centers. Recently, Savannah has dealt with significant flooding due to rainfall, which has sparked discussions on alternative funding for stormwater projects.
An intriguing plan is in motion; a feasibility study for a potential stormwater utility fee is underway. This dedicated funding source aims to help tackle stormwater issues in our community effectively.
Community Engagement
To keep residents informed and engaged, community sessions on stormwater funding strategies will kick off in April 2025, with further discussions planned for fall 2025. By late 2025, a final recommendation on the stormwater service delivery plan is anticipated, which should bring clarity and direction to ongoing challenges.
Moreover, exciting developments are also planned for the historic waterworks building! It will be transformed into a vibrant community marketplace, adding to the charm and utility of Savannah.
Taking Action for the Future
District activism remains a crucial concern, particularly as Alderwoman Bernetta Lanier notes historical discrepancies in funding for community projects in her district. This survey is an excellent chance for everyone to push for equitable funding and ensure that promises made to every part of Savannah are fulfilled.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your devices and take part in the survey! Your opinions and priorities can help shape the future of Savannah. Let’s get involved and make sure our community thrives!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Prepares for Community Meetings on Stormwater Utility
Savannah Allocates Funds for Public Art Master Plan
Additional Resources
- WSAV: City Launches SPLOST 8 Survey
- Savannah Now: Chatham County Workshops for SPLOST
- Savannah Now: Savannah Engages Community on Drainage Funding
- Wikipedia: Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax
- Google Search: Savannah SPLOST
