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Norfolk council adopts resolution to place 1% school-construction sales tax referendum on ballot
Summary
The Norfolk City Council voted to adopt a resolution to put a proposed 1% local retail sales tax on the ballot to fund school construction and major renovations; the vote followed a lengthy public-comment period with both supporters and opponents.
The Norfolk City Council on Aug. 6 adopted a resolution to ask voters whether to add an additional local general retail sales tax of up to 1% dedicated solely to capital projects for school construction or major renovation.
The clerk read the resolution authorizing a referendum under state law; after roll call the council recorded unanimous affirmative votes. "The resolution initiating a referendum election pursuant to Virginia code section 58.1‑605.1 on the question of whether the city shall add an additional local general retail sales tax not to exceed 1% to provide revenue solely for capital projects for the new construction or major renovation of schools serving this city," the clerk read during the meeting.
Supporters told council the dedicated revenue stream is needed to modernize aging buildings and provide stable funding for capital needs. Patrick Berry, vice president of the Education Association of Norfolk, said state law restricts the funds to capital projects: "State law also limits these funds to capital projects. They cannot be used for any other purpose." Several educators and school‑advocacy speakers urged council to let voters decide on the ballot.
Opponents asked the council to prioritize better financial management and existing city assets before raising taxes. The meeting included comments urging the city to consider revenue from city‑owned commercial property and funds generated by school closures as alternatives to a sales tax.
Following the vote, Mayor Alexander recognized Superintendent Dr. Jeff Rose and members of the school board for attending. The resolution moves the proposed referendum forward to appear before voters, with procedural and ballot‑timing steps to follow under state election law.
