Sales Tax Vote Slow, Sees Supporters

Augusta, GA—Jimmy Morris made quick work of his yes and no decision and when it came to the SPLOST vote, he was a ‘yes’ man. “I think we need this money I really do especially around Lake Olmstead that’s the main reason I did,” said Morris.

Morris was voting at Julian Smith Casino, where turnout was steady and slow. There were voters saying they had selected ‘no’ for the sales tax, but as a rule, special elections usually draw more supporters and on this hot referendum day, supporters were braving the heat to back the Special Purpose Local Options Sales Tax at least at Julian Smith.

“Most definitely voted yes it’s a fair tax, as a native Augustan I hope we will use it the best way possible,” said Nancy Gambill.

“Because I want to see it passed, I think it’s a good thing for Augusta,” said Aurelia Jernigan.

Commissioners help put this vote into question with the TEE Center fight leading up to the referendum. It has some suggesting it would increase the no vote, and at least one voter said the thought of voting no did cross his mind.

“Yes it has like now our council people are not doing anything with the money from the last time it’s just that we need it that’s why I voted yes,” said Henry Sturgis.