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Commissioners amend ballot language, designate priorities for proposed quarter‑cent sales tax
Summary
The Board unanimously approved amended referendum language to place a one‑quarter cent sales‑tax question on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot and designated priority uses (education capital, EMS, parks & recreation). Commissioners discussed voter outreach and exact statutory phrasing.
County Attorney Amanda Prince asked the Board to amend a previously approved sales‑tax referendum resolution to incorporate statutory language required by N.C.G.S. § 105‑537 and to ensure the ballot question is properly placed on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.
Prince read the statutory wording the county attorney’s office prepared: "WHEREAS, Pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 105‑537, the Columbus County Board of Commissioners hereby requests that the Columbus County Board of Elections place on the November 3, 2026 ballot the question of whether a one‑quarter cent (1/4¢) local sales and use tax shall be levied in Columbus County and;" The Board discussed how the phrasing might confuse voters and stressed outreach. Commissioner Ricky Bullard said the county must educate voters that the measure is a one‑quarter of one cent increase and suggested active community engagement.
The amended resolution, which specifies priority uses for proceeds — education capital projects (Columbus County Schools, Whiteville City Schools, Southeastern Community College), emergency medical services, and parks and recreation — was approved unanimously. County Manager Eddie Madden confirmed revenue estimates would be refined during outreach and planning.
The Board asked staff to coordinate with school administrators, parks and recreation staff and fire/rescue squads on public education about the ballot question prior to the November election.
