The Hernando County School Board will be going forward in their attempt to acquire half cent sales surtax revenue through special election.
Dr. Lori Romano, School Superintendent cited several reasons why it is necessary to spend approximately $250,000 on a special election to gain these funds.
These include:
• the decline in school ratings, with 4 new D-rated schools
•outdated technology
•declining budget with a lack of impact fees, sparsity funding, and minimal capital funds from the state, and no funding for capital repairs
•the importance of supporting the largest employer in the county with over 3000 employees
The decision to have a special election will go to the Board of County Commissioners for approval of the referendum. Before this time, the School Board will decide what type of special election to hold. While Ms. Anderson prefers an all mail ballot, the School Board seems to be leaning towards opening the polling locations.
The School Board will be able to approve the language on the ballot. If voters approve the half cent sales tax, these funds will be available for the 2015-2016 School Year