Kiwanis Hears About SPLOST
Members and guests at the Monticello Kiwanis Club regular meeting Monday heard from several individuals in regards to the upcoming Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) vote coming up in November.
The Jasper County Commission is asking voters to approve an extension of the current SPLOST—sales tax will remain at seven percent—to fund several projects. Those projects are $1.9 million for a Jasper County Sheriff’s Office renovation and addition, $1.2 million for roads and bridges, and $900,000 for a multipurpose building at the recreation complex.
Sheriff Donnie Pope spoke first, and he said that when the new jail was built in 1994 it was great. But, things have changed rapidly, he said, and the growth of the agency and the demand for technological support makes their space outdated. The number one need he said is additional space. He said there is no interview room currently, no conference rom, no training room.
He said there are 18 full time deputies and several part-timers who share a 212 sq.ft. squad room. There is virtually no storage, he said, and described the stuff sitting in the hallway as there is no where else for it. It’s clean, but cramped, said Sheriff Pope.
He also said grand juries since 2007 have recommended the jail acquire more space.
“The time is now, and the need is desperate,” he said. The plan is to build a 8,600 sq.ft. addition, but it will tie in with the current space and be seamless.
Sheriff Pope said as the sheriff he can’t urge passage of the SPLOST, but indicated it is badly needed.
Next the group heard from recreation director Jonathan Green about the new multipurpose building. Mr. Green said the facility was built in the late 1980s or early 1990s. There is no climate control, he said, so there is the issue of mold on equipment. The new building will truly be multi-use, multipurpose he said. Some activities he foresees being able to offer include open gym, indoor walking, fitness classes, public meetings, arts & crafts, volleyball, ping-pong and pickle-ball for example.
He said he would also create money-making opportunities as it can hold social dances, community events, and tournaments. It would be handicapped accessible, allow space to try on uniforms, and in general be able to hold more events. He said it would be something to be proud of.
The group then heard from Commission Chairman Carl Pennamon who talked about the history of the SPLOST, and how this particular SPLOST was whittled down to $3.9 million from $10 million in requests. He gave some history of previos SPLOSTS, and said 35 percent of the funds come from people who don’t live here.
Next, Monticello Mayor Bryan Standifer spoke briefly just encouraging everyone to support the SPLOST, and saying how the county and cities of Monticello and Shady Dale reached an agreement without consternation.
Commissioner Bruce Henry said he wanted to be sure people understand it is not a new tax, but a continuation. It is crucial to the betterment of the county, he said.
Next Commissioner Don Jernigan spoke, saying it’s a good thing for the county and the two cities.
Kiwanis will install new officers at its next meeting, scheduled for Monday, Oct. 9, at noon at Monticello First United Methodist Church. All interested persons are invited. To reserve a spot, call President Robert Cumbie at 770-598-4305.
