Question 1 - Special Sales and Use Tax

I approve a special sales and use tax in the amount of one percent to be imposed in Richland County for not more than twenty-five (25) years to fund certain projects with an aggregate cost of not exceeding $4.5 billion. Collection of the special sales and use tax will not begin until the current special sales and use tax imposed in Richland County is terminated. The special sales and use tax proceeds will be used to fund the following projects: Project (1) - Community Investment Projects: These projects address the integrity, safety, reliability and sustainability of the transportation infrastructure in local communities and impact the day-to-day activities of citizens and local businesses. These projects may include viable and unfunded 2012 penny projects as well as road improvements, widening, resurfacing, paving of dirt roads, intersection improvements, bikeways, greenbelts, greenways, sidewalks, and other pedestrian-friendly enhancements. 48% of the revenues generated by the sales and use tax shall be used to pay eligible costs of the Community Investment Projects, which is expected to be $2.160 billion. Project (2) - County Advancement Projects: These projects target the expansion of transportation infrastructure to achieve, support and sustain economic growth on a county-wide basis. These projects may include new construction, improvements and widening for major roadways, intersections and commuting corridors. 30% of the revenues generated by the sales and use tax shall be used to pay eligible costs of the County Advancement Projects, which is expected to be $1.350 billion. Project 3: - COMET Enhancement Projects: These projects target the continued operation and expansion of the mass transit system operated by the Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority known as the COMET. These projects may include operational sustainability, establishment of new routes, new construction and improvements to enhance rider safety and comfort, and acquisition of new buses and other modes of transportation. 22% of the revenues generated by the sales and use tax shall be used to pay eligible costs of the COMET Enhancement Projects, which is expected to be $990 million.