Oconee County Board discusses ELOST growth and community investment strategies

The Oconee County Board of Education's recent work session on August 4, 2025, highlighted a significant focus on the upcoming Education Local Option Sales Tax (ELOST) referendum. Board members expressed gratitude for the extensive groundwork laid by staff in preparing for the referendum, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and communication strategies.

One board member praised the efforts of staff and administrators, noting the value of visiting schools like Oconee Elementary, North Oconee, and Oconee High to understand the specific needs and priorities of each institution. This hands-on approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness of the ELOST, which is projected to generate $86 million based on a conservative growth rate of 8%. This marks a shift from the previous ELOST, which operated under a 0% growth rate due to the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The board underscored that this tax continuation will not impose additional financial burdens on local residents, as a significant portion of the revenue will come from non-residents. This aspect was highlighted as a key advantage for the community, reinforcing the board's commitment to transparency and responsible fiscal management.

In addition to the ELOST discussions, the meeting included updates on operational matters, such as energy usage and transportation for the previous month, although no action items were presented. The board's proactive stance on engaging with the community and addressing educational needs sets a positive tone for the upcoming referendum and future initiatives.