Hillsborough County is implementing a voter-approved property tax increase, directly impacting homeowners’ bills while providing significant raises for teachers and school staff. This measure aims to address staffing shortages and enhance educational programs within the district, marking a substantial investment in the county’s education system.
Key Takeaways
- Voter-approved property tax increase is now in effect.
- Teachers receive an average raise of $6,000; support staff get $3,000.
- Homeowners will see higher property tax bills, with "TRIM" notices arriving soon.
- The tax is expected to generate approximately $177 million annually for schools.
Increased Compensation for Educators
Hillsborough County teachers and support staff are beginning the new school year with enhanced paychecks, a direct result of a property tax increase approved by voters last November. Teachers will see an average salary increase of $6,000, while support staff will receive an additional $3,000 annually. These raises are intended to make the district more competitive in retaining and attracting educators, addressing critical staffing shortages that have led to issues like bus driver shortages and an overreliance on substitute teachers.
Impact on Homeowners
While educators celebrate the pay boost, homeowners in Hillsborough County are preparing for higher property tax bills. The millage rate increase means property owners will pay an additional dollar for every $1,000 of their home’s assessed value. "Truth in Millage" (TRIM) notices, detailing the proposed tax rates, are being mailed out starting August 18. For a home valued at the county’s median, this translates to an average annual tax increase of around $250. Homeowners who believe their property has been overvalued have until September 12 to request a reassessment.
Allocation of Funds
The approved millage is projected to raise approximately $177 million annually. A significant portion, about 92% or $138 million, will be dedicated to employee compensation. This includes the aforementioned raises for teachers, support staff, and administrators. The remaining revenue will be invested in enhancing academic programs, arts, physical education, and expanding free full-day Pre-Kindergarten for thousands of students. Charter schools will also receive a share of the funds as mandated by state law.
Timeline and Future Implications
Official property tax bills are expected in October 2025, with payments beginning in November. The school district anticipates receiving the new revenue starting in January 2026. This tax increase, which will remain in place through June 2029, positions Hillsborough County alongside other Florida counties like Pinellas, Sarasota, and Hernando that have implemented similar voter-approved measures to support their local school systems. The move is seen as a crucial step in bolstering the quality of education and addressing the financial needs of school personnel.
Sources
- Hillsborough teachers head back to school with raise after property tax increase, FOX 13 Tampa Bay.
- Hillsborough County Public Schools millage referendum starts this school year, wtsp.com.
- Cut property taxes, improve transit? Hillsborough Republican floats a plan, Tampa Bay Times.
- Experts: School rezoning can impact Hillsborough property values, wtsp.com.
- Hillsborough County schools propose property tax hike to address teacher shortages, FOX 13 Tampa Bay.