SPLOST Vote Is Tuesday

Only 170 voters had taken advantage of early voting as of Wednesday morning, meaning another 8,000+ are eligible to vote next Tuesday, Nov. 7, in the general election.

The only contested item on the ballot is that of a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax to fund improvements for the cities of Monticello and Shady Dale as well as for Jasper County.

The county plans to use $1.1 million for roads and bridges; $1.7 million for the sheriff’s office expansion and renovation and $1 million for a recreation complex.

The city of Monticello will use $500,000 for water and sewer system

improvements; $350,000 for roads, sidewalks and parking, and $100,000 for a utility facility. Shady Dale plans to use its funds primarily for water, with some $10,000 going towards roads. In negotiations, the county said it might could help Shady Dale with some roads.

Another item on the ballot is the election of Lynda Gasses as Clerk of Court. Mrs. Gasses has no opposition. She is already serving in that capacity, having stepped up when Dan Jordan retired earlier this year.

Voters in Monticello and Shady Dale will also have the option of electing mayor and council members. However, none of the races are contested.

Therefore, the only item citizens need to vote on is either a “yes” vote or a “no” vote on the SPLOST question.

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday. If you have questions about your voter registration status, contact Chief Registrar Carole Norris at 706-468-4908 or for questions about the election, contact Linda Keller, Elections Superintendent, 706-468-4903.