Hillsborough County voters have approved a property tax increase aimed at boosting teacher and staff salaries. The referendum, which passed in the recent election, will provide a significant pay raise for educators and support personnel, while also increasing property tax bills for homeowners. This measure aims to improve teacher retention and recruitment within the district.
Boost for Educators
The approved millage referendum will result in substantial salary increases for Hillsborough County Public Schools staff. Teachers and administrators, such as principals and assistant principals, will receive an annual pay supplement of $6,000. Support staff, including bus drivers and nutrition workers, will see an increase of $3,000 per year. These raises are intended to make salaries more competitive and help retain quality educators.
- Teachers and administrators: $6,000 annual increase.
- Support staff: $3,000 annual increase.
Financial Impact on Homeowners
As a result of the referendum, property owners in Hillsborough County will experience a property tax increase. The tax will add $1 for every $1,000 of taxable property value. For a typical homeowner, this translates to an estimated additional $281 per year. "Truth in Millage" (TRIM) notices detailing the proposed tax rates are expected to be mailed out soon, with official tax bills arriving in October and payments beginning in November. The district anticipates generating approximately $177 million annually from this tax increase.
Voter Sentiment and District Goals
Public opinion on the referendum was mixed, with some voters expressing concern over the increased tax burden, particularly those on fixed incomes. However, many voters supported the measure, emphasizing the importance of adequately compensating teachers and supporting education. The Hillsborough County School District aims to use the additional funds not only for salary increases but also to implement and preserve academic programs, potentially including enhancements to arts and physical education, and expanding free full-day VPK.
Referendum Details and History
The approved millage will be in effect for four years, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2029. This marks a success for the district after a similar measure narrowly failed in 2022. The district is committed to transparency, with annual reporting planned to inform residents about the use of the funds. Hillsborough County now joins other Florida counties, such as Manatee, Sarasota, and Hernando, that have successfully passed similar tax referendums to support their school systems.
Sources
- Voters voice opinions on Hillsborough County School Board’s millage referendum, ABC Action News.
- Hillsborough teachers head back to school with raise after property tax increase, FOX 13 Tampa Bay.
- Hillsborough County teachers share impact after school tax referendum passes, ABC Action News.
- Hillsborough County school tax referendum projected to pass, ABC Action News.
- Hillsborough County Public Schools millage referendum starts this school year, wtsp.com.