As a downtown business owner, I am proudly – and loudly – supporting C-SPLOST.
In addition to funding a new Augusta Arena that will serve as a magnet for incredible shows, sports, and events, C-SPLOST will ultimately generate nearly 600 new jobs and $1.6 billion in economic impact. It’s a huge win for the entire community – not just those who live, work, and play in downtown Augusta.
Opinion
C-SPLOST really is a “no-brainer” and that’s why Joe Edge’s opposition, which he vocalized in his online media publication, was so puzzling.
In Mr. Edge’s opinion article, he railed against the Augusta Richmond County Board of Commissioners saying, “Annually the city of Augusta wastes millions on superfluous nonsense. They manage to inflate the budget every year, costing taxpayers more money to provide the same services only at a lower quality. This combination of ineptness and incompetence should give all citizens pause on voting for new taxes for a new arena.”
Mr. Edge may be right about how the Commission spends tax dollars, but that has nothing to do with C-SPLOST. The funds raised by C-SPLOST can ONLY be used by for construction of a new arena in downtown Augusta. Legally, these funds can’t be used the Augusta Commission or any other governmental entity for any purpose except the arena.
He goes on to write, “If the city can’t manage $1.1 billion, why would we give them several hundred million for an arena?”
Again, the city won’t manage the C-SPLOST funds – nor can they spend them.
Finally, Mr. Edge talks about income taxes and a rise in property taxes but never mentions that C-SPLOST is neither. It’s a temporary, half-penny sales tax that’s paid for by all consumers – residents and visitors alike. That means people like Joe Edge, who live in Columbia County, will help pay for this landmark project in downtown Augusta.
It’s hard to fathom Mr. Edge’s reasons to pen and publish such a misleading article. Even worse, he refuses to answer phone calls, texts, and e-mails concerning his wildly inaccurate missive. While disappointed in Mr. Edge’s misinformation campaign, those who support C-SPLOST will not be dismayed. In fact, we are more motivated than ever to share the facts and Get Out the Vote.
This is a once in a lifetime moment for our community. I am encouraging all citizens to go to the polls now or on Nov. 7 and vote YES to Build Augusta’s Future!
Havird Usry
Partner, Fat Man’s Hospitality
