Early Voting for ESPLOST V Kicks Off in Savannah

News Summary

Early voting for the ESPLOST V referendum has begun in Savannah, with voting day coinciding with St. Patrick’s Day festivities. This one percent sales tax is crucial for funding school improvements across Savannah-Chatham County, raising an anticipated $705 million. The Savannah Chamber of Commerce has expressed support for this initiative, emphasizing the importance of enhancing educational facilities to meet community growth and workforce demands. With nearly 40% of funding from tourist contributions, this program reflects the community’s commitment to education and development.

Exciting News for Savannah Residents: Early Voting is Here!

Hey Savannah! It’s that time again! Early voting for the much-anticipated Educational Special Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST V) referendum kicked off on February 24, 2025, and it’s making waves in our community as we prepare for the big day on March 18. What’s even more exciting? The voting day coincides with the joyful celebrations of the St. Patrick Day Parade and Festival!

What is ESPLOST?

So, what exactly is this ESPLOST deal? Well, it’s a one percent sales tax that plays a vital role in funding school projects around Savannah-Chatham County. The money gathered from this tax is dedicated to renovations, new school constructions, and other improvements that can help our schools thrive. With the proposed ESPLOST V, the expectation is to generate a whopping $705 million over the next five years, which will go a long way in enhancing our educational facilities.

Looking Back at ESPLOST’s Impact

Since its inception back in 2006, previous ESPLOST programs have raised over $1 billion. This continuous funding has played a pivotal role in alleviating bond debts and supporting the overall growth of the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS). It’s a real testament to the community’s commitment to education!

Community Support and Economic Growth

The Savannah Chamber of Commerce has given a hearty thumbs-up to the ESPLOST V initiative, recognizing the pressing need for investments in our school facilities, especially as the county continues to grow. They highlight how this funding is crucial to prepare our students for future workforce demands and ensure top-notch facilities are available.

How Tourist Contributions Impact Funding

Interestingly, nearly 40% of the funding from this one-penny sales tax is expected to come from tourists visiting our beautiful city. This means that while we’re focusing on improving our schools, visitors to Savannah will also help contribute to our education system. It’s a win-win situation!

History of Past ESPLOST Projects

As we gear up for ESPLOST V, it’s essential to reflect on the key projects funded by previous ESPLOST iterations. Some significant projects include:

• New Hampstead High School – $37.3 million (ESPLOST I)
• Three new K-8 schools with a total of approximately $70 million (ESPLOST II)
• The Davis-Edwards-Harris Educational Complex – $180 million (ESPLOST IV), though it faced cost overruns due to COVID-19 supply chain issues.

Addressing Growth in Western Chatham County

With ongoing community growth, there’s a pressing need for facilities in areas like Western Chatham County. The Savannah Chamber emphasized the importance of investing in Pooler’s first high school, which would be a great step toward meeting the educational needs of our expanding population.

Inclusion of Charter Schools

In an exciting development, ESPLOST V includes provisions specifically for facility improvements for charter schools such as Savannah Classical Academy and Coastal Empire Montessori School. This inclusion is a first for this funding proposal, further expanding the scope of educational opportunities available to students in our community.

Active Community Outreach

The SCCPSS is actively engaging with the community to garner support for ESPLOST V. They’re hosting informational meetings to ensure residents are informed and can participate in discussions about the proposed plans. It’s all about keeping everyone in the loop and understanding the importance of these investments!

Past Approval and Voter Participation

Historically, ESPLOST referendums have received positive approval from the public, despite the ups and downs of voter turnout that often coincide with other elections. Public sentiment reflects a strong support system for the school district’s ongoing investments, even amidst conversations about tax burdens and the priorities of funding.

Get Involved!

For those who want to familiarize themselves with the plans and initiatives, early voting presents a fantastic opportunity. Check out the SCCPSS website for more information and get ready to cast your vote!

Mark your calendars, Savannah! Let’s show our support for our schools and make a difference in our community!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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March Weather Forecast and Community Event in Savannah

Additional Resources

• Savannah Now: Early Voting Started for Savannah Schools ESPLOST V
• WTOC: SCC School Leaders Discuss ESPLOST V
• WSAV: ESPLOST V Gains Support from Savannah Chamber
• Savannah Now: Education Sales Tax Receives Chamber Endorsement
• WTOC Video: Discussing ESPLOST V