FAQ

What is penny for progress?

A one-cent sales tax that funds capital improvement projects throughout Sumter. The penny was first passed in 2008 then again in 2014. Let's keep the penny rollin' and vote yes on November 8th!

Who determines what projects are on the list?

Several community groups, consisting of citizens in various communities around Sumter County, were assembled. Using INSERT INFO these groups decide upon projects and then projects are submitted to County Council to be approved or denied.

Are these projects the only priorities the City and/or COunty will focus on in the next few years?

When using the 1% Penny tax collections, by law, they must be. However, one of the greatest advantages of the Penny for Progress is that it frees up other state and federal funding sources to allow the City and County to reach far beyond the Penny list by using these alternative funding options to maximize additional community needs.

Can the Penny For Progress LIst be changed or be amended before election day?

No, once Sumter County Council gives the final reading, changes to the project list are not allowed.

Do we really need these projects?

All projects are necessary to improve the safety, economic development and quality of life of our community. “Need” is a subjective term, but there is no doubt that our community needs new jobs, sanitary water, safer roads and safe, clean places for our children to play.

Is this an additional tax?

No, the one percent tax that was approved in 2008 is the only tax addition. After every 7-year term, the penny has to be renewed in order to continue its collection. Your Yes vote this November will only renew the existing one percent capital sales tax, and allow Sumter County to move forward with new projects requested from the Sumter community

ONce the renewal passes, can Sumter County Change projects?

No, State law does not allow any changes in the projects.

Can the money collected for these projects be used on other things?

No. The list is an all or nothing vote. Under State law, the money generated must be spent on the things listed on the ballot.

What happens if voters reject the renewal?

Some of the new projects will go forward anyway because of federal and state mandates. However, our local leadership would have to find other ways to pay for them. For instance, if the penny does not renew certain projects would be forced to be funded through an increase in property taxes. Other projects on the list would probably be put on the back burner, and other could be abandoned outright.

What happens if the renewed sales tax generates more revenue thanis needed?

Under State law, it can’t. Once the total amount on the ballot is generated, the sales tax must be removed.

What happens if the sales tax doesn’t generate enough money?

As before, the 7-year estimate is a conservative one and all projects are expected to be completed. However, if the penny tax will not fund all of the projects, the projects at the bottom of the list will not be started unless the City Council or County Council find alternative sources to fund those projects completely.

Can I vote for this Capital Penny Sales Tax through a straightDemocratic or Republican ticket?

Please note that if you vote a straight ticket on the ballot, you will not be directed immediately to the additional questions. You will need to return to the main screen to find the remaining ballot questions to vote for the Capital Penny Sales Tax. In order the keep pace with other areas of the state and country, Sumter needs to generate activities that will bring revenue back into our community.

Frequently Asked Questions