For one of

the few times in its history, the Fayette County Board of

Realtors has decided to make its feelings known on a

political issue.

President

Carolyn McCullough explained the board has decided to

back a proposed special purpose local option sales tax

that heads to the voters Sept. 21.

"We

don't get on bandwagons very quickly. But we believe this

tax will protect and enhance residents' property

values," she said.

Voters will

decide whether to add a penny to the county's sales tax

to fund an estimated $90 million in upgrades and

expansion to the county's school system.

McCullough

said the SPLOST has been effective for schools in

neighboring counties, adding that a vote for the tax

makes "business sense."

"Folks

from other counties who shop here will help build our

schools, instead of all the burden being placed on

property owners," McCullough said.

When the

Realtors looked at the school system's proposal to pay

for expansion through the sales tax, they realized it was

time to get out and help spread the message, she said.

"When

people look at the actual projects and discuss the actual

issues, they realize it's good for Fayette County,"

she said.

In years

past, the board has helped the county devise a sign

ordinance and helped in some statewide races. But

McCullough believes this is the most important local

issue that the board has thrown its weight behind.

Members of

the board have been speaking to different groups

throughout the county and have been trying to make sure

residents understand the importance of the issue.

"In

the past, there has been some animosity towards the

school board, but passing this issue is really important

for the kids and the future of education in the

county," she said.