School board asks supervisors to place 1% local sales-and-use tax referendum on November ballot

The Isle of Wight County School Board on July 9 unanimously approved a resolution asking the county Board of Supervisors to place a referendum on the Nov. 3, 2026 general election ballot that would authorize an additional 1% local sales-and-use tax dedicated to school capital improvements.

Vice Chair and other members described the action as an opportunity for voters to decide on an additional, dedicated revenue source for new schools, major renovations and related financing costs. "This action does not impose a tax. It simply supports giving our citizens the opportunity to vote on a dedicated funding source for future school capital improvements," a board motion stated.

Board members said projected capital needs across the division are substantial; staff noted the county anticipates investing tens of millions in projects and that inclusion on the county's five-year capital improvement plan was already part of the local planning process. Members urged the public to "get educated" about the referendum and to participate in the November vote.

Clerk will provide a certified copy of the board's resolution to the Board of Supervisors, county administrator and county attorney as a next step. The school board's resolution says all revenues would be dedicated to eligible school capital projects as prescribed by Virginia law.