County transportation staff described a significant resurfacing backlog and pushed for renewed discussion about a transportation special-purpose sales tax.

"Rough estimate is we're about 25 to 30 years behind on resurfacing," a DOT staff member (Speaker 8) told residents, adding: "We should be resurfacing about 35 to 40 miles every year... we own about 720 miles of roadway... we're only able to do somewhere between 8 to 12 miles." The shortfall, staff said, is primarily a function of available funding.

On revenue options, staff said a 1-cent T-SPLOST over six years could raise about $150 million: "1-cent on the dollar... over 6 years, that could add up to about $150,000,000 of T-SPLOST funding," a county staffer explained. The presentation said roughly 35% of that revenue often comes from nonresidents, through spending by people driving through or stopping in the county.

Why it matters: resurfacing and street maintenance are long-term obligations; delaying work increases future costs and creates safety and vehicle-damage concerns. Commissioners noted that the county also must weigh how to replace services if SPLOST funding is not renewed.

Commissioners and staff said public education is necessary before any referendum and noted legal limits on commissioners campaigning during an active ballot measure. No formal vote was taken; the forum was informational and aimed at explaining how SPLOST, E-SPLOST and T-SPLOST buckets differ and how each funds distinct priorities.

Next steps: staff signaled renewed outreach and planning for a potential T-SPLOST proposal and asked residents to learn about the categories of SPLOST funding before a ballot decision. Commissioner (Speaker 3) emphasized voter education because commissioners cannot promote a referendum while it is on the ballot.