A joint work session was held March 14, 2011 by the Gilmer County BOC and Cities of Ellijay and East Ellijay. Road projects and budget discussions were on the agenda for the workshop. The main focus was to ensure Gilmer County is prepared should the bill HB277 pass in 2012.

Below is a Bill Overview
• Transportation Sales and Use Tax
– Creates 12 Special tax districts based on RC boundaries
– Each District can levy 1% sales tax for 10 years
– Individual Counties cannot opt out
– Money raised in District stays in district
– Money is not subject to congressional balancing
– Criteria set by Director of Planning (finalized 11/2010)
– Roundtables ultimately select projects
– Vote will be Primary election of 2012
– Funds start flowing in 1st quarter of 2013

Much consideration was given to the roads in the Cities of Ellijay and East Ellijay since these areas are used by everyone in the County. The work session resulted in a “top ten” list of areas in Gilmer County that will be presented as possible projects should the bill pass. Fetchyournews.com will post complete story including the top ten list of road projects compiled during the workshop along with video coverage of the session.