To the Editor:
As members of the Union County School Board, our highest priority is providing our students with safe, high-quality, and modern learning environments. We ask our community to take a close look at the upcoming half-cent sales tax referendum for Union County Schools.
A “Vote YES” on this initiative is a direct investment in the Union County School District. The revenue generated by the tax can only be used for approved capital needs, including critical facility repairs, classroom technology, school security, transportation, and improvements to school and athletic facilities. These funds will help us maintain and improve the buildings and resources our students and community use every day.
The tax would not apply to exempt items such as groceries, medicine, and gas. For every $2 spent on taxable items, the additional cost would be just 1 cent; a $100 taxable purchase would add 50 cents.
Another benefit of a local sales tax is that a portion of the funding responsibility is shared by visitors, commuters, and others passing through Union County who make taxable purchases here. According to an external audit, the district estimates that the tax could generate $600,000 or more each year for 15 years. This would provide a dedicated source of funding that can help the district plan ahead, address facility needs, and protect our schools for future generations.
Investing in our schools is an investment in our community. Strong, well-maintained schools provide students with the environments they need to learn and prepare for tomorrow’s workforce. They are also places where generations of Union County families learn, gather, compete, perform, and build traditions.
Our students and community deserve schools that prepare them for the future while preserving the traditions that make Union County special. We encourage every resident to become informed about the half-cent sales tax referendum and to support our schools on Nov. 3. Join us in building a stronger community and brighter future for our students.
Members of the
Union County School Board
Chris Hodgson, District 1
Russell Gordon, District 2
Curtis Clyatt, District 3
Becky Raulerson, District 4
Terra Johnson, District 5
