Beaufort County holds community meeting on proposed penny sales tax

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. — Beaufort County voters had another opportunity this week to learn more about a proposed penny sales tax on the ballot before heading to the polls.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Beaufort County voters voice concerns about proposed penny tax for road projects

Beaufort County Council member York Glover hosted a community meeting to walk people through the referendum.

What the tax would do

The proposed one percent sales tax on select goods would last nine years. County leaders say it would raise hundreds of millions of dollars for more than 80 road and safety projects countywide.

Voter concerns and support

While some voters have concerns about the tax and whether projects will be completed, one St. Helena Island resident says waiting could cost even more.

“Well, the thing is, it’s the cost. If you don’t do it now, and if you do it, let’s say, two years down the road, then it’s going to be much more expensive,” said Richard Glover, a St. Helena Island resident.

Proposed projects

County leaders say proposed projects include paving dirt roads, installing traffic signals, widening congested corridors and improving Highway 21 as the county’s population grows.