Chattooga County voters approved three countywide ballot referendums in Tuesday’s General Election, renewing a one-percent education sales tax and approving two measures providing property tax relief for senior citizens. All three measures received substantial support, with the county senior homestead exemption drawing the largest percentage of favorable votes. Voters approved continuing the existing one-percent education sales tax for another five years, with 4,490 voting yes and 2,395 voting no. The measure received 65.21 percent approval. The renewal authorizes the collection of up to $26.9 million for the Chattooga County and Trion school systems. The money will be divided between the two school districts based on student enrollment and can be used for school construction and renovations, classroom improvements, technology, school buses, safety and security equipment, athletic facilities and payments on existing school-related debt. The measure continues an existing sales tax rather than imposing an additional one-percent tax. Revenue is collected on eligible purchases made in Chattooga County, including purchases by visitors and residents. County Property Tax Exemption For Seniors The strongest voter support went to a new county property tax exemption for qualifying senior citizens. The measure passed with 6,216 yes votes and 665 no votes, receiving 90.34 percent approval. Under the measure, Chattooga County homeowners who are at least 70 years old and have incomes not…
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