A local dispute in Baldwin County over the distribution of an education sales tax has turned into a political fight, with Senator Chris Elliott pushing for a statewide solution after local officials failed to reach an agreement. The debate centers around whether the tax should be shared with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach City Schools, with the Baldwin County school system arguing that the tax is meant to repay debt for capital projects and cannot be redistributed.
Senator Elliott filed two bills to address the issue, but they did not advance through the local legislative delegation. Frustrated, he moved the issue to the Senate County and Municipal Government Committee, which he chairs. Despite facing opposition, the committee advanced a bill that would require education sales tax proceeds to only be collected within the boundaries of the school system that receives the money.
The tax is estimated to be worth between $3 million and $6 million annually, and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach do not currently receive any of that revenue, even though a significant portion is collected in those cities. The debate has escalated, with opposing viewpoints on whether the funds should be redistributed or if the county school system should retain them.
Senator Albritton believes that shifting funds to the two cities’ systems is unfair, while Senator Elliott argues that it is time for a change. The issue has caused tension within the committee, with threats of filibuster if the bill reaches the Senate floor. Despite the challenges, Senator Elliott is determined to see the issue through to provide a clear framework for other communities facing similar situations.
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