Dade County Commission Places Two Sales Tax Referendums on November Ballot, Approves New EMS Agreement

TRENTON, Ga. — The Dade County Board of Commissioners took several major actions during its July meeting, including placing two local sales tax referendums on the November General Election ballot, approving a new emergency medical services agreement, and certifying the results of the May SPLOST referendum.

One of the biggest decisions of the meeting was the commission’s vote to place both a Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) referendum and a Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) referendum before voters in November. If approved, FLOST would provide property tax relief, while TSPLOST would fund transportation improvements, including roadway paving and widening projects. Commissioners emphasized the importance of educating residents about both measures before Election Day.

Commissioners also approved a new Emergency Medical Services Agreement with Puckett EMS, which will take effect February 1, 2027. Before approving the contract, Commissioner Bill Pullen requested stronger language in several sections by replacing the word “may” with “shall,” a change accepted by Puckett EMS representatives.

The board certified the official results of the May 19 SPLOST referendum, confirming voter approval of the one-cent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for another six-year term beginning July 1, 2027. The revenue will continue funding voter-approved capital improvement projects throughout Dade County.

Commissioners  proclaimed July 16 as Rural Transit Day in Dade County, recognizing the services provided by Dade County Transit and its staff.

County Executive Don Townsend reminded commissioners that the county remains under an immediate hiring freeze as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget reduction plan. Townsend also encouraged residents to appeal property tax assessments or apply for homestead exemptions before the July 20 deadline, attend the county’s Comprehensive Plan Visioning Session on July 21, and stay hydrated during the current period of extreme heat. He also announced that the county is pursuing grant funding for a fourth community storm shelter in North Dade County.

Additional actions included approving surplus declarations for several county vehicles, advancing the first reading of an amendment to the county’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Ordinance. Commissioners later entered executive session to discuss a personnel matter and took no action upon returning.