SPLOST 9FLOST Public Information Session - Diamond Lakes

This public information session held by the Augusta, Georgia government on April 16, 2026, focused on educating residents about two tax measures appearing on the May 19 ballot: the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) 9 and the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST). The session detailed how SPLOST 9 is a continuation of the existing 1% sales tax used to fund major capital projects including infrastructure improvements, public safety facilities and vehicles, recreation facilities, and other community enhancements, with an estimated collection of $375 million over approximately six years. The discussion included transparency efforts such as a QR code linking to detailed project expenditures and addressed concerns about project prioritization and timelines. The FLOST, a new 0.5% sales tax approved by the Georgia General Assembly in 2024, is designed solely to reduce property taxes over a five-year term, shifting some tax burden from property owners to sales tax payers. Financial projections and potential tax savings for homeowners were presented. The session concluded with a Q&A addressing project funding, geographic equity in project distribution, and clarifications on ballot language and tax impacts. No votes were taken during the session; it served as an informational forum to assist voters in making informed decisions on the upcoming ballot measures.