SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has endorsed the Educational Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST 5) program.

The Savannah Chatham Public School System (SCPSS) put the program up for a public vote on the March 18 special election.

The Savannah Area Chamber explains that ESPLOST 5 is expected to generate $705 million in local funding for school construction and renovations in the span of the next five years.

This marks the fifth program presented to voters for approval since the initiative first began in 2006.

“Our board had the opportunity to hear a detailed presentation from School Board President Roger Moss and system staff about the ESPLOST 5 program,” said Brad Harmon, Chairman of the Savannah Chamber Board of Directors. “Following a thoughtful and thorough discussion, we reached the conclusion that continuing investments through ESPLOST will not only address the demands of our county’s growth but also ensure that Savannah’s visitors contribute to the funding. Most importantly, it will help prepare our students to meet the future workforce needs of our members, ultimately benefiting the entire community.”

“I’m grateful to the Chamber Board and its leadership for their unwavering support of our students,” said Roger Moss. “The Chamber’s endorsement is invaluable in helping the business community understand the goals of the ESPLOST 5 program and the lasting impact it will have on student success.”

Nearly 40% of the 1-penny sales tax is estimated to be funded by tourism, with the proceeds directly benefit Chatham County residents. This approach supports essential projects without placing the burden on property taxes paid by homeowners and businesses.

“The rapid population growth in west Chatham County is driving the need for more schools, including Pooler’s first high school,” said Chamber President and CEO Bert Brantley. “We are deeply committed to supporting the school system’s efforts to improve early-grade literacy, knowing that investments in facilities, teachers, and curriculum lead to stronger educational outcomes and a more skilled workforce. That’s why our organization and the Savannah business community stand behind ESPLOST 5.”

Another key issue for the Chamber Board was ensuring funding for charter schools. ESPLOST 5 marks the first program to include funding for facility and site improvements at Savannah Classical Academy Charter School and Coastal Empire Montessori School.

Early voting for the Mar 18 election started on Feb. 24.

For more information about the ESPLOST 5 campaign, visit www.voteyesesplost.com.