Forsyth County Schools officials on Oct. 28 presented details of a proposed extension of the district's penny education sales tax, known as E‑SPLOST, ahead of a public vote scheduled for Nov. 4.

"EASBLOS stands for Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax," Dr. Michelle Dugan said while describing the proposal as an extension of an existing penny sales tax rather than a new tax. The presentation said the tax funds capital projects for the school district, including building refurbishments, safety and security upgrades, HVAC work, buses and technology.

Why it matters: E‑SPLOST revenue is restricted to capital projects and can reduce the district's reliance on other revenue sources for construction and renovation. Presenters said between 30 and 40 percent of collections are paid by nonresidents who purchase gas, shop or dine in the county, which the district said helps offset the residential tax burden.

Officials emphasized delivery and transparency. "100% of the E‑SPLOST projects have been delivered," Dr. Dugan said, listing completed safety programs, new facilities, fine arts and science investments, buses and technology purchases. She directed listeners to the district's E‑SPLOST web page for project lists and financial transparency materials.

Board context: Dr. Dugan and staff said the E‑SPLOST proposal is intended to continue a voter‑approved revenue stream that has been used for capital maintenance and expansion across the district's 43 schools. The presentation noted that the current iteration enabled the district to pay cash for many projects and to reduce debt levels in recent years, which the presenters framed as a long‑term tax benefit for residents.

Public outreach: Staff said information about voting locations is posted on the Forsyth County Voter Registration and Elections Office website and the school system's E‑SPLOST page. The district encouraged residents to review the published project lists and financial pages and to submit questions via the district's contact address.

What was not decided: The board did not take a vote on E‑SPLOST at the meeting; the presentation was informational in advance of the Nov. 4 election.

Provenance: The district presentation on E‑SPLOST began at 00:37:36 in the meeting transcript and concluded at 00:42:39.