Aiken County Residents to Vote on Key Issues This November
As the election season heats up, residents of Aiken, South Carolina, are preparing to head to the polls on November 5. In addition to choosing the next president, voters will face important decisions regarding four critical ballot questions. These questions relate to local sales tax renewals and a proposed state constitutional amendment.
Capital Project Sales Tax Renewal
The first question involves the renewal of the Capital Project Sales Tax, which has been in place since 2000. This tax adds a 1 percent sales tax to purchases in Aiken County. If renewed, it would be the tax’s fifth renewal. Advocates argue that this penny sales tax should be maintained, as it helps fund essential capital projects such as roads, bridges, and public safety equipment without raising property taxes.
Aiken County Council Chairman Gary Bunker emphasized at a recent community meeting that voters are not being asked to pay more; rather, they are voting to maintain the existing tax rate. He noted that the tax is expected to generate approximately $260 million from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2033. The funds would be distributed among the county, the city of Aiken, the city of North Augusta, and other municipalities based on population size.
Renewing this tax is expected to help keep the county’s debt low, benefiting taxpayers and allowing for future economic development. Bunker also pointed out that nearly one-third of the tax revenue is anticipated to come from visitors to the county.
Education Capital Improvement Sales Tax
The second question on the ballot is about the renewal of the Education Capital Improvement Sales Tax, also a 1 percent sales tax. Commonly called the “penny for the schools,” this tax was first approved in 2014. If renewed, it would provide vital funding for school upgrades over the next ten years and is projected to raise $398 million.
Corey Murphy, the Aiken County School Superintendent, stated that part of this funding would help alleviate property taxes, accounting for 10 percent of the total. School projects proposed include upgrades to various high schools and the replacement of North Augusta Middle School. Additionally, a new elementary school is planned to meet the needs of the fast-growing Midland Valley area.
Murphy highlighted the need for modern security features and adequate heating and cooling systems in schools, referencing the outdated conditions in some facilities. The school board also has contingency projects lined up should additional funds be available after primary needs are met.
Constitutional Amendment
Every South Carolina voter will also have the opportunity to vote on a proposed amendment to the state constitution. This amendment seeks to clarify that only citizens aged 18 and older are eligible to cast ballots in state elections. This proposal came after extensive discussions about election integrity, and both the state Senate and House of Representatives have overwhelmingly supported it.
Community and Business Support
These initiatives have received strong endorsements from local groups, including the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, which has voiced support for both tax renewals. Chamber CEO Jim Tunison noted the significant positive impact these taxes have on the community and the local economy.
With the elections just around the corner, Aiken residents have much to consider. Voting yes to renew these taxes is seen as a vital step in maintaining and improving infrastructure, education, and community safety in Aiken County.
As election day approaches, awareness and participation will be critical in shaping the future of Aiken County.
