The first of four public meetings on the proposed new 1 percent sales tax for transportation improvements is set for 5:30-7 tonight at Oakwood City Hall, 4035 Walnut Circle. The Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization is sponsoring the meetings, with the goal of explaining particulars of the tax, such as when it would take effect, how long it would stay in force and a description of the projects. The first 30 minutes will be devoted to allowing residents to look at maps and documents related to the projects, said Srikanth Yamala, the MPO’s transportation planning manager.