NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk City Council voted unanimously to place a referendum on the November ballot that would increase the city’s local retail sales tax by 1%, with all revenue directed to Norfolk Public Schools.
If voters approve the measure, the local retail sales tax would rise from 1.7% to 2.7%, bringing the combined local and state sales tax to 7%. City leaders say every dollar generated by the additional 1% would go toward Norfolk Public Schools.
Before council members cast their votes, residents made their way to City Hall, making passionate arguments both for and against the referendum. Some questioned whether schools should receive additional funding, while others said investing in students couldn’t wait…