Sampson and Georgetown Counties hold tax referendum presentations

Local officials in Sampson County and Georgetown County are conducting informational sessions regarding upcoming sales tax referendums scheduled for the November 3 election.

In Sampson County, the Board of Commissioners is proposing a half-cent sales tax increase to pay down debt from school construction. Board Chairman Allen McLamb noted the measure could generate approximately $4 million. County Manager Allen Vann suggested that this revenue could potentially allow for a reduction in property taxes, noting that achieving the same revenue through property taxes would require increasing the rate from 68.5 cents to approximately 74 cents.

In Georgetown County, officials are presenting a proposal for a 1% Local Option Sales Tax intended to fund local government operations and provide property tax relief. The county has launched an online Tax Relief Estimator to help residents calculate potential credits. Officials estimate the tax could generate $12 million annually, with 71% of funds mandated by state law to be returned to property owners as tax credits on primary homes, second homes, vehicles, and boats.