NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Attention Norfolk, you could be voting on an increased sales tax at the polls this fall.
This stems from a law passed by the Virginia General Assembly during the 2026 session, which allows localities across the state to hold a referendum for a 1% tax increase dedicated strictly to school renovations and construction.
Va. House passes bill to allow localities to impose 1% sales tax for school construction, renovation
While no one likes paying more for items they’re already paying for, Norfolk City Councilman Carlos Clanton will tell you it’s sorely needed. Norfolk’s council is taking up a measure to add the referendum to the ballot at its Thursday meeting.
“This is very important for the city of Norfolk, because the average age of our buildings [is] anywhere from 55 to 60 years old,” Clanton said. “Jaycox Elementary School is older than the current Booker T Washington High School, and it is falling apart on our kids.”…