TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough County voters will soon decide whether to renew a half-penny sales tax that has helped pay for school improvements across the district.
Hillsborough County Public Schools is holding a series of “Half-Penny Promise” town halls to show community members how money from the tax has been spent and what could come next if voters approve the renewal in November.
Voters originally approved the half-penny sales tax in 2018. Since then, the district says about $1.5 billion has been invested in schools.
Those improvements include new roofs, technology upgrades, security enhancements and air conditioning replacements. More than 177 schools have received A/C replacements using money generated by the tax.
Jose Valiente, chairman of the district’s Citizen Oversight Committee, said the impact can be seen across Hillsborough County.
“You can drive by any school or visit any school in Hillsborough County and see something,” Valiente said.
During Tuesday’s virtual town hall, one resident asked why the tax is still needed if so many projects have already been completed.
Deputy Superintendent Chris Farkas said the district still has additional needs, including roofs and air conditioning systems, as well as technology, furniture and improvements related to student safety and security.
The district estimates the half-penny sales tax costs Hillsborough County residents about $86 per year. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.
Valiente, who is also a certified public accountant, said he supports renewing the tax.
“You know, in my profession I never used the word tax and beautiful in the same line, but this tax is beautiful with the things it has done for the county,” Valiente said.
Voters will decide in November whether to renew the half-penny sales tax.
The first in-person Half-Penny Promise town hall is Tuesday evening at Newsome High School. Additional town halls are planned throughout the district. You can view the dates and times here.