November 8th wrapped up election season and campaigners across Teton County took a collective sigh of relief. While everyone shifted their attention to post-election work, no group was more excited than the 15 SPET initiatives which, for the first time, all received passing votes.
What is SPET?
SPET stands for Special Purpose Excise Tax also known as the “6th cent tax”. Through SPET, a penny of all sales in Teton County goes into a fund for projects and initiatives voted upon by the community. Interestingly, tourists contribute over 50% of our SPET funds and in the past, SPET funding has contributed to water quality, community safety, and more!
What passed?
This year, all 15 SPET initiatives passed, meaning over $150 million will go towards SPET projects. You can read about each SPET item here: https://www.jacksonwy.gov/630/SPET-Education
What does that mean for Teton County?
Gradually, SPET initiatives will access their funding and projects will come to fruition. With land and plans ready to roll, Central Wyoming College’s Jackson Center will likely be the first project to construction with others close behind.
SPET is an opportunity unique to Teton County where the community gets an active voice in improvements. This year’s SPET projects will bring:
- Safe routes to schools, a park-n-ride facility, and greater access to public transportation
- Expanded higher education programs
- ADA and pedestrian accessibility improvements in the Town of Jackson
- Preserved public access, state lands, and scenic spaces
- Community solar, energy conservation, and emission reduction projects
- Water quality improvements
