Resolution to request and direct the Oconee County Board of Elections and Voter Registration to hold the election for the creation of the Corinth-Shiloh Special Purpose Tax District for Fire Protection on the same day as the 2024 general election.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE RESOLUTION 2024-12 A RESOLUTION REQUESTING AND DIRECTING THAT THE OCONEE COUNTY BOARD OF ELECTIONS AND VOTER REGISTRATION HOLD THE ELECTION REGARDING THE CREATION OF THE CORINTH-SHILOH SPECIAL PURPOSE TAX DISTRICT FOR FIRE PROTECTION ON THE SAME DAY AS THE 2024 GENERAL ELECTION; AND OTHER RELATED MATTERS. Monday, May 20, 2024– I requested that Resolution 2024-12 be placed on the agenda for Tuesday’s county council meeting. The resolution, if passed by council, will request and direct the Oconee County Board of Elections and Voter Registration to hold the election for the creation of the Corinth-Shiloh Special Purpose Tax District for Fire Protection on the same day as the 2024 general election. My primary reason for this decision is to ensure maximum voter turnout and to better reflect the true will of the community. Holding the election as a stand-alone election during the summer, when many people are on vacation or otherwise preoccupied, raises the risk of a low turnout. Such a critical decision, which involves a significant tax increase for the Corinth-Shiloh community, deserves to be made with the broadest possible participation from the residents of that community. By scheduling the election on the same day as the general election in November, we can leverage the higher voter turnout typical of general elections, thus ensuring that the decision made reflects the majority view of the community. I understand that there are differing opinions on the timing of this election, and I appreciate the community's interest in resolving this matter promptly. However, I believe that aligning this vote with the general election will better serve the democratic process and uphold the integrity of the decision-making process. I encourage all residents of the Corinth-Shiloh area to stay informed and participate in the upcoming discussions and the election. Public forums and town hall meetings will be scheduled to provide more information and address any concerns from the community.