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Newport News council moves forward with referendum for up to 1% sales tax to fund school construction
Summary
Council voted to place a referendum on the November ballot asking voters whether to allow an additional local 1% sales‑and‑use tax dedicated to school construction and major renovations; school board leaders urged approval citing aging facilities and deferred maintenance.
The Newport News City Council voted July 14 to initiate a referendum asking voters whether the city may levy an additional local retail sales and use tax of up to 1 percent to fund school construction and major renovation projects.
Dr. Terry Best, chair of the Newport News School Board, told council the school division is grateful for the partnership with the city and said a dedicated revenue source would address aging school infrastructure. ‘‘If the referendum is approved by the voters, it will address our aging school buildings,’’ Dr. Best said.
Councilmembers framed the referendum as a voter decision that would provide a stable revenue stream for capital projects. Councilman Cleon Long said the city faces roughly $233 million in deferred maintenance over 15 years and described the referendum as an opportunity to give residents a voice on funding priorities. The mayor said if approved by voters the funds would be dedicated solely to school construction and major renovation projects.
The council voted to initiate the referendum and place the question on the November 3 ballot; the motion carried (recorded as 7-0). Councilmembers asked staff to provide clear information to voters about what projects could be funded and to coordinate outreach with the school board ahead of the election.
