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CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, VA — After a formal vote by the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors on Wednesday, July 22, county voters will be asked to consider a referendum this fall authorizing a 1% local sales tax dedicated exclusively to Chesterfield County Public Schools (CCPS) capital projects and facility improvements.
The Nov. 4 referendum would authorize a dedicated revenue source that, under Virginia law, could only be used for school construction, renovation and major maintenance projects. The funds could not be used for operating expenses, salaries or other non-capital costs.
If voters approve the referendum, the county also plans to reduce the real estate tax rate by 2 cents and the personal property tax rate by 10 cents, offsetting a portion of the new sales tax revenue while maintaining funding for school capital needs.
CCPS has identified six major capital projects that would be supported by the funding if approved by voters:
- Old Hundred Elementary School
- New elementary school to serve the Dale District area
- Matoaca Middle School
- Midlothian Middle School
- C. Bird High School gymnasium project
- Thomas Dale High School campus improvements
In addition to these projects, revenue generated by the sales tax would support major maintenance and infrastructure improvements across all of CCPS.
“Doing what’s best for young people and building a strong community are at the heart of the robust, ongoing partnership between the Chesterfield County School Board and the Board of Supervisors,” said Dr. John Murray, superintendent of Chesterfield County Public Schools. “School leaders are excited about the possibility of accelerating several projects and continuing to provide high-quality learning environments and academic opportunities for the children of Chesterfield County."
“This referendum gives voters the opportunity to consider a more balanced approach by diversifying our local revenue sources while ensuring those funds are dedicated to a purpose that benefits generations to come,” said Dr. Mark Miller Chair of the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors (Midlothian District). “It reflects this board’s longstanding commitment to making education a top priority. If approved, the revenue generated would help move six critical school projects forward sooner than anticipated, allowing us to deliver modern learning environments more quickly while easing pressure on local property taxpayers. It’s an investment in our children, our families, and the future of Chesterfield County.”
The “1 for Schools” referendum follows legislation passed by the Virginia General Assembly allowing localities to seek voter approval for a dedicated 1% sales tax for school construction and modernization projects.
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