Wythe County board votes to put 1% local-option sales-tax question on November ballot to fund $72M in school projects

The Wythe County Board of Supervisors voted July 14 to put a 1% local-option sales-tax referendum before voters on Nov. 3 that, if approved, officials say could fund roughly $72 million in school capital work.

A financial adviser presenting to the board summarized cash-flow scenarios showing the tax could support the county—inancing of several projects now identified as priorities. "We have identified about $72,000,000 of upcoming school-related projects," the presenter said, listing a $40,000,000 Spiller Elementary School project, a $25,000,000 Fort Chiswell High School renovation, about $5,000,000 for athletic-field improvements, and roughly $2,000,000 for roof and chiller repairs.

The consultant told the board his analysis used conservative assumptions, including a base annual revenue estimate of $5 million (with a higher but still conservative $6 million scenario), a planning interest rate of about 4.5%, and a 20-year debt-service structure with an initial interest-only ramp. He noted the legislation excludes groceries and certain personal-hygiene items from the new tax and would not require the county to share proceeds with towns under the statute feature that increases net receipts for the county.

"If we only had $5,000,000 a year, you could leverage that to about $60,000,000," the presenter said, adding that the modeled scenarios show the tax could cover the debt service for $72 million of projects over the financing period without drawing on the general fund.

School officials said they supported placing the question on the ballot. Dr. Street, identified as the school superintendent, told the board the school board adopted a resolution backing a citizen vote and called the measure "very impactful for the school system, for our kids, and for our teachers and staff." He said early design work on Spiller Elementary is largely ready to proceed if financing is secured.

Chair Smith clarified the action before the board was to place the referendum on the ballot only; adoption of the tax or any implementing ordinance would come later if voters approve it. After discussion, the board voted to approve the resolution to send the question to referendum.

If voters approve the referendum, the presenter said the county could adopt an ordinance and proceed with financing and preliminary design work but could not begin physical construction until the tax is legally in effect. Staff estimated collections would begin in fiscal 2028 under the proposed timetable.

Next steps: the resolution must be adopted by a deadline to go before the county judge for a November referendum order; if adopted the board would enact an ordinance after voters approve the measure. The board will provide public education on the proposal ahead of the election, officials said.