Hillsborough County voters will have the opportunity in November 2026 to decide whether to extend the existing half-penny sales tax for schools. This measure, if approved, would continue the current levy for another decade, providing crucial funding for school infrastructure, teacher salaries, and student programs.
Key Takeaways
- Voters will decide in November 2026 on renewing Hillsborough County’s half-penny sales tax for schools.
- The referendum aims to extend the existing levy for ten years, not increase it.
- Funds have historically supported new construction, renovations, security upgrades, and air conditioning improvements.
- The tax increase approved in a previous election has already provided raises for teachers and support staff.
The Half-Penny Sales Tax Explained
The Hillsborough County School Board is set to vote on May 5th on whether to place the half-penny sales tax renewal on the November 2026 ballot. This tax, first approved by voters in 2018, has been a significant source of capital funding for the district. It has funded over $1.15 billion in projects, including new school construction, campus renovations, security system enhancements, and air conditioning upgrades. A substantial portion of this spending has also benefited local and small businesses.
If voters reject the renewal, the district would lose a dedicated funding stream essential for long-term construction and facility maintenance. The current tax allows for multi-year project planning and sustained construction activity, while also injecting funds into the local economy.
Impact on Teachers and Staff
A separate property tax increase, approved in a previous election, has already begun to impact school staff positively. Teachers are receiving an average pay increase of $6,000, while support staff are getting an additional $3,000 annually. This increase aims to address staffing shortages by making the district more competitive in retaining educators and other essential personnel. Superintendent Van Ayres has emphasized the need for increased pay to prevent teachers from leaving for better-compensated positions in other districts or sectors.
Financial Implications for Homeowners
While the school tax extension aims to secure future funding, the recent property tax increase has led to higher tax bills for homeowners. The "Truth in Millage" (TRIM) notices, which detail proposed tax rates, are being mailed out, with official tax bills arriving in October. For a home assessed at the county’s median value, the annual tax increase is approximately $250. Homeowners have a window to request a reassessment if they believe their property value has been over-assessed, especially in cases of storm damage.
Future Investments and Programs
The revenue generated from the proposed tax renewal is earmarked for addressing enrollment growth and the needs of aging facilities. If approved, the district plans to continue investing in hiring and retaining educators, as well as enhancing academic programs, arts education, physical education, and expanding free full-day Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) for thousands of students. The district estimates the millage would raise approximately $177 million annually, with a significant portion dedicated to employee compensation and the remainder for student enrichment programs.
Sources
- Voters to decide Hillsborough school tax extension, Tampa Bay Business & Wealth.
- 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.
- Hillsborough County schools propose property tax hike to address teacher shortages, FOX 13 Tampa Bay.