Ben Hill County Schools asks voters to renew one-cent ESPLOST starting April 27, 2026

Ben Hill County Schools said, "Beginning April 27, 2026 Ben Hill County residents will have the opportunity to continue a one cent sales tax that has been instrumental in advancing the quality of education for our children." The district described the tax as the Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), a funding mechanism established by the Georgia legislature in 1996 for school capital projects.

The district said ESPLOST revenue typically pays for new construction, renovations, technology, safety and transportation, and emphasized what the tax cannot be used for: "ESPLOST cannot be used for salaries, healthcare, or general operating expenses." The statement also noted that voters must approve the continuation of ESPLOST every five years.

Ben Hill County Schools thanked residents who have supported ESPLOST and "the Georgia General Assembly for creating this funding mechanism which empowers communities to make strategic investments in capital projects." The statement framed the renewal as a local investment in students and community priorities, noting the district's view that education includes day-to-day supports that help students succeed.

The district reminded citizens of the measure's previous approval: "Remember, we passed the ESPLOST in 2021 with 89% support from our community." The announcement closed with an appeal for voter participation in the upcoming continuation vote on April 27, 2026.

There were no motions or formal votes recorded in the transcript. The announcement is informational and describes the ballot opportunity and limits on how ESPLOST funds may be spent.