Greenville Faces Important Decision About Sales Tax for Road Repairs
Greenville, S.C. is buzzing with conversation as voters prepare to make a significant choice on November 5th. The burning question on everyone’s mind is whether or not to approve a one-percent sales tax aimed at repairing and improving the county’s roads. This discussion isn’t new; local councilors have been talking about this penny sales tax for over a year, and now it’s time for residents to have their say.
A History of No Sales Tax
Interestingly, out of the 46 counties in South Carolina, Greenville is one of only three that has never had a sales tax approved by its residents. If this one-percent sales tax gets the green light, it’s estimated to bring in a whopping $1 billion over the next eight years. This revenue would come from a modest tax on purchases within the county, excluding necessities like gas, medication, and groceries.
Proposed Road Improvements
The proposed tax is not just a random idea. Local leaders, including District 25 Councilman Ennis Fant, shared that the fund would address municipal roads in cities, as well as county and state roads that are classified as fair or in poor condition. A special commission has drawn up a list of over 1,400 road projects that would be funded if the tax passes. These projects include repaving streets, alleviating traffic congestion, and improving intersections, all of which are desperately needed in many parts of the county.
Diverging Opinions
While the majority of council members support the referendum, there are dissenting voices. Councilman Steve Shaw, representing District 21, urges voters to think twice. He calls the referendum “very long and confusing” and suggests a “no” vote might be in the community’s best interest. He points out that the ballot will only reveal a short list of projects, while the full proposal stretches to an extensive 26 pages.
The Stakes of the Vote
If residents opt against approving the sales tax, local leaders warn of dire consequences for road maintenance. As Councilman Fant puts it, “There is no pot of money that someone is hiding in a closet somewhere that we can use if this fails.” He emphasizes that without this one-cent sales tax, Greenville County’s roads—especially in rural areas—will continue to degrade until they’re little more than dirt paths.
The Argument for Alternatives
On the flip side, Shaw believes the county council hasn’t prioritized road repairs adequately and questions if a sales tax is even necessary. He argues that the state allegedly has funds set aside for road improvements but is facing delays due to contractor availability. This sentiment complicates the current road repair narrative and adds another layer of complexity to the upcoming vote.
Looking Ahead: If Passed, What Happens Next?
If the tax receives approval, it won’t kick in until May 2025, giving the council the chance to consider approving a bond. Fant expresses confidence that if voters are willing to back the tax, they’ll want to see speedy results. “The bond will allow us to let them see bulldozers moving and pavement being laid almost instantly,” he declares.
A Step Back in Time
It’s worth noting that the last time a sales tax was on the ballot in Greenville was a decade ago, and it did not pass. Back then, the tax included groceries and medications, which likely played a role in its defeat. This time around, the exemption may offer a greater chance of success.
The residents of Greenville have a crucial decision to make, and the stakes are high. Whether it’s “yes” or “no,” the outcome of this vote will determine the future condition of the roads that residents and visitors rely on every day.
