Why is the 0.25 % sales tax needed?

Existing revenue sources are insufficient to support needed capital improvements. Nash County is growing. New schools are needed at all grade levels. Old schools need repair and renovation – replacing roofs, heating units, adding classrooms, updating technology, etc. Nash Community College is serving more students than ever. The County Jail, Senior Center, & Animal Shelter are in need of repair. These improvements will have to be made in the near future so Nash County can continue to have a competitive workforce and be a great place to live.

How will the proceeds be spent?

80% Education

• Nash - Rocky Mount Public Schools (Several new schools are needed to relieve enrollment pressures. Construction of additional classrooms at existing schools is needed. And, almost all existing schools need renovations: replacing/repairing roofs, replacing outdated heating & air systems, improving technology, etc.)

• Nash Community College

10% Public Safety

• Sheriff’s Department (Expansion/renovation of the jail, sheriff’s department & courtrooms is required.)
• Emergency Services

10% Community Facilities

• Senior Center, Animal Shelter, & other renovations are needed.

When will the sales tax become effective?

October 1, 2008.

How much will it cost?

Just 1 penny for every $4.00 spent in purchasing goods. This tax would not be included on purchases of groceries, cars or homes.

How much will it help?

In the first year, it is projected to generate $2.8 million – paid not only by residents, but also by the many visitors who shop, eat & sleep in Nash County.

What’s the alternative?

The capital needs of the school system, community college, and other public facilities need to be met. Raising the property tax or approving a land transfer tax would be the alternatives.

Where do I vote?

Since this is a countywide election, go to your usual polling place. To find out more about precinct locations, registration or One Stop Voting, call the Nash County Board of Elections at 459-1350.

What gives Nash County the authority to levy this sales tax?

The NC General Assembly approved the 2007 State Appropriations Act, which gives counties the authority to levy a local sales tax (0.25 %) following approval in an advisory referendum.

What is the wording I should look for on the ballot?

Local sales & use tax at the rate of one-quarter percent (0.25%) in addition to all other State & local sales & use taxes.

Why doesn’t the County say what the sales tax will be used for on the ballot?

We can’t, according to NC state statute. However, the Nash County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution committing the funding to capital needs, which Nash-Rocky Mount Schools & Nash Community College endorsed.

Why is this our best option?

• Our capital (construction) needs will not go away.
• Educating our children, young people, & working adults is important to the future economy of Nash County.
• 0.25% sales tax yields 5 times more revenue than 1 penny on the property tax.
• The sales tax will mitigate our need for future property tax increases for capital projects.
• Everybody benefits, so everybody who purchases goods in Nash County pays – including those from outside Nash County (like tourists visiting from Interstate 95 & other non-residents) plus those who don’t pay property taxes.
• A sales tax allows all citizens to make their fair contribution to school needs – not just property owners.
• Non-residents pay sales tax, too, lessening the burden on property owners & elderly homeowners on fixed incomes.
• Keeping the property tax as low as possible is important in creating new jobs in our county, & important in helping our elderly & disabled citizens on fixed incomes who cannot afford higher property taxes.

How can I get more information?