TAMPA, Fla. \u2014 Hillsborough County voters will soon decide whether to renew a half-penny sales tax that has helped pay for school improvements across the district.<\/p>\n
Hillsborough County Public Schools is holding a series of \u201cHalf-Penny Promise\u201d 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.<\/p>\n
Voters originally approved the half-penny sales tax in 2018. Since then, the district says about $1.5 billion has been invested in schools.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Jose Valiente, chairman of the district\u2019s Citizen Oversight Committee, said the impact can be seen across Hillsborough County.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou can drive by any school or visit any school in Hillsborough County and see something,\u201d Valiente said.<\/p>\n
During Tuesday\u2019s virtual town hall, one resident asked why the tax is still needed if so many projects have already been completed.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The district estimates the half-penny sales tax costs Hillsborough County residents about $86 per year. Groceries and prescription drugs are exempt.<\/p>\n
Valiente, who is also a certified public accountant, said he supports renewing the tax.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou 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,\u201d Valiente said.<\/p>\n
Voters will decide in November whether to renew the half-penny sales tax.<\/p>\n