Dear Gwinnett Citizens,
On the November 4, 2008 ballot we will have the opportunity to renew the penny sales tax we now pay, known as SPLOST. This Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax is a vital funding mechanism for our community that was made possible by legislation 23 years ago. Since 1985 Gwinnett has successfully used seven SPLOST programs to generate $1.86 billion for county and city capital projects that have made our community a better place for us all.
SPLOST dollars have enabled projects like the building of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, the Gwinnett Civic Center, transportation & traffic improvements, roads & bridges, public safety facilities & equipment, our nationally recognized parks & recreation facilities, as well as water & sewer improvements and new libraries. Thanks to SPLOST we were able to bring these projects online debt-free and at a much faster pace than traditional funding mechanisms allow.
The renewal of our penny tax is more important to Gwinnett's quality of life than ever before as we face challenging economic times. With local, State and Federal budgets being tightened, SPLOST provides a wonderful way to ensure the vital funding we need for our community stays in place. SPLOST revenues will generate jobs in our community and help minimize the tax burden on Gwinnett property owners. This penny sales tax allows visitors to Gwinnett to generate funds for us as they buy goods at our shops and malls and enjoy the restaurants, hotels and entertainment facilities throughout Gwinnett.
2009 SPLOST dollars will be specifically invested in transportation projects that will improve our traffic congestion, road safety, and infrastructure gaps. It will bring to us more police and fire resources, new libraries, parks and recreation facilities, a much-needed courthouse expansion, and water and sewer improvements. With our vote of approval, the 2009 SPLOST is projected to enable an additional $850 million in community improvements in Gwinnett over the next five years.
I invite you to take time to explore this site to learn more about SPLOST and how important it is to our community. Your vote of support is the only way to make SPLOST possible for us all. Please join me in voting "YES" to the 2009 SPLOST referendum on November 4,2008.
With gratitude,
J. Michael Levengood
Chairman
Gwinnett Citizens for 2009 SPLOST Renewal