Macon-Bibb County leaders urge voters to renew ESPLOST

The penny-per-dollar sales tax will help fund Bibb County School District projects such as facility upgrades, buses, technology and school safety.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) –On the eve of Election Day, a host of Macon-Bibb County leaders called on residents to turn out and vote “yes” in support of renewing the county’s Education Special Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST).

The ESPLOST is a penny-per-dollar tax that will help fund Bibb County School District projects such as facility upgrades, buses, technology and school safety. Jessica Walden, President and CEO of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce, says voting in favor of the ballot measure is an investment in Macon-Bibb County’s workforce, economy, and the future, all while helping to keep property taxes low.

“Strong public schools are the foundation of a strong economy,” Walden said. “Businesses choose Macon to locate and grow in communities where families want to live. And that means communities with high quality education.”

Bibb County Sheriff David Davis also spoke out in support of continuing the ESPLOST, saying that it will help keep crime in check and strengthens the potential future workforce at the sheriff’s office.

“Giving our students the best facilities and the best equipment to become their best selves will keep them off the street and will hopefully keep them from a life of crime,” Davis said.

Polls open at 7 a.m. tomorrow and close at 7 p.m.