Chamber of Commerce supports SPLOST

Published 12:52 pm Friday, April 26, 2024

Dear Editor,

The Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce strongly encourages you to vote ‘Yes’ to renew the Special Local Option Sales Tax this May 21. Our Board of Directors endorsed this initiative after thorough deliberation at their February meeting.

We are also grateful to the Citizens Advisory Committee, who unanimously recommended supporting SPLOST after a comprehensive review. SPLOST enables our county to conserve funds that would otherwise need to be raised through alternative taxation methods. Essentially, it serves to decrease the overall tax burden.

Early voting begins on April 29, offering a convenient opportunity to participate before the official voting day. SPLOST is not a new imposition but a continuation of the one-cent sales tax approved in 2020. This renewal represents ongoing community support and includes essential projects that enhance our safety and overall quality of life, which Whitfield County and the City of Dalton residents value deeply.

Since the implementation of the 2020 SPLOST, significant investments have been made in public safety and infrastructure throughout Whitfield County. The funds have enabled the purchase of two new fire engines and three emergency response vehicles, improvements to various fire stations, and the construction of the new Fire Station 12. Additionally, numerous roads and bridges have been upgraded and enhanced.

Through SPLOST, our community has undergone remarkable transformations that enhance our quality of life in Greater Dalton. Projects funded include the development of The Mill Line Trail, enhancements to Rocky Face Ridge Park and Riverbend Park, new soccer fields at Heritage Point Park, and the renovation of the John Davis Recreation Center, which is underway. These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to building a safer and more vibrant community.

Jason Mock, President and CEO of the Greater Dalton Chamber, underscores the benefits of voting ‘Yes’: “By supporting SPLOST, we choose to invest in the safety, growth, and prosperity of our community. Let’s continue to make our county and city exemplary places to live, work, and play. With over 30,000 workers commuting daily and numerous events attracting visitors nationwide, the revenue generated significantly benefits our community by enhancing our living standards and reducing the tax burden on our residents.”

We urge all voters in Whitfield County to take advantage of early voting or cast their ballots on May 21. Your vote is vital to sustain our progress and ensure our community remains vibrant and robust.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our community’s future.

For more information, visit the Whitfield County website on SPLOST.

Dalton Chamber of Commerce President

Jason Mock on behalf of Greater Dalton Chamber Board of Directors