Aiken County Prepares to Vote on Renewing Penny Taxes
Aiken, SC – As the general election fast approaches this fall, Aiken County is preparing to vote on the renewal of two important penny taxes that have already made a significant impact on the community. These taxes are the Capital Project Sales Tax and the Education Capital Improvement Sales Tax, both of which aim to fund crucial projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
Understanding the Penny Taxes
During the annual State of Our Community event held on August 21, the Aiken Chamber of Commerce made it clear that the theme for the evening was “It makes cents.” This slogan emphasizes the financial sense of renewing these sales taxes, which only require a 1% increase. Local leaders from various sectors came together to stress the importance of these votes, reminding residents that they are not new taxes, but renewals of existing ones.
Capital Project Sales Tax
Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker was one of the key speakers, explaining how the Capital Project Sales Tax, first introduced in 2000, has positively shaped Aiken County. He mentioned that this tax has funded a variety of improvements, from new ambulances to essential road upgrades and recreational facilities. If the voters approve the renewal, this tax is projected to generate around $260 million from May 1, 2026, through April 30, 2033.
Specifically, the funding breakdown is impressive: Aiken County would receive about $127 million, the City of Aiken is expected to benefit by around $80 million, North Augusta would get roughly $49 million, and smaller towns would share approximately $8 million. This cash influx is critical not just for immediate projects but has also helped keep property taxes at a stable level by allowing the county to invest upfront, avoiding additional financing costs.
Impact on Infrastructure
Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner shared her perspective, stating that the tax has been “incredibly important” for the city. She highlighted various infrastructure projects funded through this tax, including a new public safety headquarters and stormwater management projects in Hitchcock Woods. A compelling video displayed numerous projects financed by the penny tax, showing how the funds have transformed the community.
Education Capital Improvement Sales Tax
The second tax on the ballot, the Education Capital Improvement Sales Tax, has similarly deep roots in the community. Aiken County Public School District Superintendent Corey Murphy pointed out that a significant benefit of the tax is that it enables the school board to fund new buildings and improvements for schools sustainably. In 2014, when the previous education sales tax was approved, it led to enhancements in several schools, such as Aiken High and North Augusta High.
If renewed, the Educational Capital Improvement Sales Tax is projected to raise about $398 million over a decade. Ten percent of this amount is earmarked for property tax relief, while the remainder will be directed towards necessary infrastructural projects across various schools. There are several proposed projects, including significant upgrades to Midland Valley, Silver Bluff, and South Aiken high schools.
Call to Action
Local leaders urge residents to engage and participate in this voting opportunity. Both Bunker and Murphy reiterated that these taxes are extensions of current taxes, not new burdens on taxpayers. “Get out and vote,” Murphy emphasized, underlining how this funding is crucial for maintaining and improving educational facilities that affect not just students, but the entire community.
The consensus from the event is clear: Renewing these penny taxes will enable Aiken County to continue investing in critical infrastructure and educational improvements, benefiting everyone in the region.
