TAMPA, Fla. — A legal battle is unfolding in Hillsborough County as the Board of County Commissioners fires back in court against the School Board over the exclusion of a proposed tax increase from November’s ballot. This measure, intended to boost teacher salaries, is at the center of a contentious lawsuit filed by the school board.
The controversy began when the county commission prevented the school board’s proposed tax from being voted on this fall. This tax aimed to raise $177 million annually by increasing property taxes by $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value, specifically to enhance teacher pay.
In a recent court document, the county justified its decision, arguing that the school board hasn’t proven their right under the statute to dictate the timing of the ballot measure. They stated that the law mandates the county commission to schedule the election and grants them the discretion to choose an appropriate date.
Further complicating matters, county attorneys referenced a precedent from Hernando County, strengthening their position that a county commission possesses the authority to determine the scheduling of ballot initiatives.
The decision to block the measure was also based on the commission’s stance that placing two tax-related items on the same ballot might confuse voters. In opposition, the school board insists that delaying the tax initiative until 2026 strips local voters of their immediate right to decide on crucial funding for education.
County Superintendent Van Ayers expressed frustration over the commissioners’ actions. “It’s baffling that a decision that impacts so many is being withheld from public vote by just a handful of commissioners,” Ayers remarked, highlighting the widespread bewilderment and discontent among educational leaders and stakeholders.
Adding urgency to the dispute, the Hillsborough County supervisor of elections has pointed out that a decision needs to be made by August 20 to include the measure on the upcoming ballot. This deadline is critical to ensure all logistical and legal requirements are met for the referendum to proceed.
The lawsuit reflects a broader debate on the balance of power between different layers of government and the rights of voters to influence local tax measures directly. This case could set a significant precedent for how educational funding initiatives are handled in the county and possibly beyond.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits a resolution that will have lasting implications on the financial sustainability of local schools and the quality of education available to Hillsborough County’s students.