School leaders in Washington County, Virginia want a sales tax referendum

Washington County, Virginia, becomes the latest locality to request a sales tax referendum placed on ballots in a special March election to fund school construction projects.

As a whole, their campuses need over $200 million in repairs for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing areas with its 15 schools at an average age of 59-years-old.

The report said the 1 percent tax on retail and other purchases could collect $10 million annually, while the same amount from the county would result in a 15 cent property tax increase.

The tax request was made possible after a vote by the General Assembly that allowed the tax to be implemented as a way to finance the needs of a city or county’s school system.

The request now goes before the county Board of Supervisors.

(GRAPHIC: Property of Washington County, Virginia Public Schools / Official Facebook)