Alachua County is seeking applicants for the Infrastructure Surtax Citizen Oversight Board, also known as the Wild Spaces Public Places (WSPP) board.
Passed by voters in 2022, the 10-year, one-cent WSPP sales tax helps pay for parks, conservation, roads and housing initiatives throughout Alachua County. The sales tax is expected to generate roughly $500 million for projects throughout the county before sunsetting. Each of the nine municipalities receives a share of the WSPP sales tax.
To accommodate working schedules, the 10-member board, which includes three alternates, meets quarterly at 5:30 p.m. to ensure the surtax proceeds are invested in eligible projects, per state statute and county ordinance. The public’s next opportunity to attend a meeting is on Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. on the second floor in the Grace Knight Conference Room at the Alachua County Administration Building (12 SE 1st St. Gainesville).
Currently, Alachua County has a vacancy for one alternate voting member. There are also two vacant Gainesville seats and smaller cities have both of its seats vacant.
The Alachua County Commission makes board appointments, while the city of Gainesville approves its appointments. Members serve staggered four-year terms.
“The oversight and review of each of the projects is rewarding work. It allows board members a glimpse into the many city and county improvements underway that help make Alachua County a great place to live, work and play,” said Assistant County Manager and Chief of Staff Gina Peebles.
For more information, contact Assistant County Manager and Chief of Staff Gina Peebles at 352-337-6279.
