Charlottesville school board endorses state bill to permit 1% local sales tax for school capital

The Charlottesville City School Board unanimously adopted a resolution on June 4 expressing support for Senate Bill 66, legislation that would authorize counties and cities across Virginia to levy up to a 1% local-option sales-and-use tax dedicated to school capital projects.

The resolution, read aloud by board member Mr. Meyer, urged the Commonwealth’s legislature and governor to approve the bill and recommended that Charlottesville City Council work with the school division to plan a local referendum should the state law be enacted. The document emphasizes accountability measures in the state bill — including voter approval via referendum, exemptions for groceries and personal hygiene products, and a locally enforceable “lock box” to dedicate proceeds to school capital projects or debt service.

Board members said they see the local option as a tool to diversify school capital funding and lessen reliance on local property taxes. Staff cautioned that timelines for placing a referendum on the ballot will depend on budget and public‑notice timing; they noted the earliest possibility would be the November 2026 ballot if state action and local steps align.

City staff at the meeting’s CIP update said the penny tax could be a significant funding source to support a draft multi‑year facilities plan that includes major projects and repairs across the division.

The vote signals the board’s advocacy position; it does not create a local tax or binding commitment by council. School and city staff said they will share the resolution with the mayor and council and continue coordination with state legislators.