Wednesday, September 15, 1999
SPLOST will encourage higher density

Isn't it interesting that the SPLOST supporters feel it's necessary to put signs all over Fayette County to pass the 1 percent tax bill. They have organized a committee to push this bill through, but citizens, please remember that those opposed rejected this bill last year for the plain and simple reason that if the SPLOST passes it only encourages more high density in Fayette County — and don't we have enough already?

The scary thing is that there are about 3,500 voters associated with the Fayette County Board of Education that will surely get out to vote as well as 600 Realtors who have pledged their support. If those of us opposed to SPLOST don't get out to vote on Sept. 21 we will have no one to blame but ourselves.

SPLOST committees say that this tax will last for five years. How often have any of you heard of a tax that has been dropped? The most important reason for not condoning this tax increase is the liberty you give to developers and to the Peachtree City Council and the other municipalities in Fayette County to keep on approving high-density projects that keep the schools overcrowded as they are now. Just maybe our representatives will recognize that the citizens are against the uncontrolled growth that SPLOST will encourage.

The plan now is to build two elementary schools, a middle school and renovate several older schools. Then if there is enough money left they will build a new high school. Of course the Board of Realtors are in favor. They sell new houses in new developments with more children to crowd the schools. Nothing has been said about a raise in teachers' salaries or improvements to education. They will be spending some on new technology.

Another interesting item is that the Realtors are paying for the yard signs that will be put up shortly. Is there support truly altruistic or might they have a vested interest in supporting the developers? That sounds pretty political to me!

Remember to vote Sept. 21, and if possible, try to get to some of the council meetings to keep in touch with happenings in zonings in Peachtree City.

Mildred Harris
Peachtree City


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