Portsmouth Votes on School Tax | Virginia Beach News

Portsmouth voters will decide this November whether to approve a one-percent local sales tax—up to $13 million annually—to fund critical school construction and renovations, as Virginia faces a statewide shortfall in school capital funding. While the School Board backs the measure as a necessary, less painful alternative to property tax hikes, critics demand transparency and question whether existing funds are being used efficiently. One council member opposed the tax, citing past successful projects without referendums, but the vote passed 5-1. With similar referendums popping up across Virginia, including Richmond, Charlottesville, and York County, Portsmouth’s decision could set a precedent—and residents are weighing the long-term benefits against the immediate financial burden. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f7fa0a7fd354c70c