Commissioners to begin sales-tax discussion | The Augusta Chronicle

Ideas are trickling in for how Augusta might spend millions in new sales tax dollars.

Members of the city commission are set to approve Tuesday a short timeline for developing the city’s seventh special-purpose, local-option sales tax package, although at least two commissioners have said they need more time to develop the proposal before seeking voter approval.

Commissioner Donnie Smith said the requests he sent Mayor Deke Copenhaver for the tax are strictly for infrastructure, including improvements along Skinner Mill, Dennis and Mayo roads; a new fire station near Fort Gordon’s Gate 1, where homeowner insurance is higher because of lack of fire coverage; and possibly new equipment or facilities for Augusta’s animal services department.

Smith said he also supports Sheriff Richard Roundtree’s request to upgrade the department’s radio system.

Voters, who also might be asked to approve an accompanying bond issue May 20, won’t favor more than necessities, Smith said.

“I’m not sure at this point, with the way things are going, they’re willing to pay for fluff,” he said.

via Commissioners to begin sales-tax discussion | The Augusta Chronicle.