08/24/2026
SPLOST
Recently, I was asked about SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) and how that effects the fire department, emergency management, and 911 center. After explaining what the 1% SPLOST sales tax is, where it comes from, the specific uses, the regulations and accountability, how it is shared with locals and visitors, and, most importantly, the powerful impact it has on public safety and the county as a whole, these people were understanding and supportive. It is truly amazing what a penny can do. Some people were surprised to learn that we have had a SPLOST in Union County for almost 30 years and, at the time of this column, there were only three counties in Georgia who didn’t have SPLOST https://dor.georgia.gov/sales-tax-rates-general.
I cannot speak about all SPLOST projects but I can explain the projects that have affected our departments. The Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has benefited from SPLOST funds by the purchasing of rescue equipment and by the building of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) which was part of the upgrade to the fire department headquarters station in 2013. The EOC is the coordinating center for disasters and other major emergencies that affect Union County. Prior to this, Union County EMA and EOC was operating out of a small office.
The fire department has seen the largest benefit from SPLOST. The new headquarters station (Station 1) as mentioned above is one example. Other volunteer and career stations throughout the county have been built with SPLOST funding. The UCFD Training Facility as well. These new stations and the Training Facility increase our capabilities and reduces the ISO Rating (Insurance Services Office) of Union County which reduces insurance premiums for home and business owners.
The SPLOST funding also has purchased fire apparatus, rescue vehicles, the ladder apparatus, and support vehicles that enable the department to respond safely and effectively. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has also been purchased with SPLOST funding including turnout gear and the recent replacement of 120 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. This PPE protects our firefighters and better equips them to fight fire and save lives.
The latest SPLOST funded project is the new 911 center. The current 911 center is in a run down, old building approximately 65 years old. The new center is larger, more secure, and built to house the 911 services for many years. SPLOST funding also purchased the high tech equipment and software that is required to provide the most up-to-date 911 communication services.
These are just a few SPLOST projects that affect the EMA, fire, and 911 departments. There are too many to list in this column. There is little doubt that SPLOST funding has improved and enhanced the public safety of this county.
SPLOST can be confusing, especially in a world of misinformation. The best practice is to do your own research and educate yourself; ask questions and get the facts from reliable sources. For more information on Union County SPLOST visit www.unioncountysplost.org. Union County Fire Department ~Our Family Protecting Your Family~
