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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WACH) - At a public meeting Monday, Richland County officials were peppered with questions by Lower Richland residents who are concerned about what a possible penny sales tax would pay for in the county.

The one-cent sales tax hike which is being called the "transportation penny" by local leaders would pay for road improvements, bike, pedestrian, and greenway projects and the region's cash-strapped bus system. Voters will decide whether to green light the project on the November 6 ballot.

Monday's forum was the final scheduled education meeting on the issue. Richland County authorities set up the forums to better inform the public about the penny tax proposal after a great deal of confusion swirled around a similar 2010 measure that was narrowly shot down by voters.

The people packing the room at Monday's meeting had questions ranging from what the penny would pay for to whether they could trust the money would be used properly.

"That's what these people really want to know," said Tyrone Murray. "When they feel like, okay, I'll give you some money, but I ain't getting nothing. I've lived here for 20 years and nothing happened."

Many echoed those sentiments, expressing to county council members in the room that they believe their community has been neglected in the past when similar projects have been rolled out.

"We haven't gotten our fair share. But, I think things are changing," said Virginia Sanders. "And I think when our citizens in Lower Richland learn how the system works and become advocates for themselves, things will be better."

If Richland County voters approve the sales tax hike in November, the sales tax in the county would increase to eight percent over a 22-year period. Local officials are looking to raise $1.07 billion through the proposal. If they reach that mark before the 22- year life of the tax, the sales tax would cease to exist.

Some at Monday's meeting thought educational meetings like the one they were attending should have taken place before the referendum was ever approved so they could have voiced their concerns before the issue went on the ballot.

"They already got it on the ballot, then they're asking people to come get educated why it's on the ballot," said James Porter. "That's putting the cart before the horse or closing the gate after the cows got out."

If approved, the sales tax would take effect in May 2013.