Tampa Bay voters back school referendum with 66% support despite Republican opposition

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners meeting on April 2, 2025, featured heated discussions surrounding a recent school referendum that passed with over 66% voter support. The referendum received bipartisan backing, highlighted by endorsements from the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and a public opinion piece signed by 14 local leaders.

During the meeting, criticism was directed at four Republican commissioners who opposed the referendum. Speakers accused them of attempting to block the initiative from appearing on the ballot, labeling their actions as an abuse of power and interference with democracy. The public expressed frustration over the commissioners' focus on issues outside their jurisdiction, such as education funding, which they argued should be the responsibility of the school board.

Concerns were also raised about the use of tax money for legal fees related to the referendum. Community members voiced their discontent over perceived inequities in the education system, particularly regarding the use of vouchers for private religious schools, which they described as a subsidy for the wealthy.

The meeting underscored the community's strong support for the school referendum and highlighted ongoing tensions between local government officials and constituents regarding educational funding and priorities. As the county moves forward, the implications of this referendum and the commissioners' actions will likely continue to be a focal point for public discourse.