Hillsborough voters renew school surtax, opening path to about $1.5 billion in projects

According to local media reports, Hillsborough County voters approved a 10-year renewal of the school district’s half-cent sales surtax. County election results showed 62% support and more than 300,000 ballots cast in favor, and the measure is expected to bring in an estimated $1.5 billion for Hillsborough County Public Schools.

How the money can be used

The renewal does not create a general school-funding pot. State law limits the surtax to brick-and-mortar capital projects, not classroom operational expenses, and officials say it will support more than 1,700 scheduled capital improvement projects over the next decade.

Local media also reported that since collections began in 2019, the tax has generated more than $1.3 billion, funding more than 1,000 completed renovations with roughly 200 more projects underway. Earlier spending has included 180 air conditioning unit replacements, more than 60 roof installations and upgrades to athletic fields and playgrounds.

What families should watch for next

The next update families will want is the project list. District officials have not yet released the finalized construction calendar naming which schools will get the first wave of work.