School Facility Funding Is Now on the Ballot in November

Dear Charlottesville City School families, 

I’m writing to let you know about a measure on this November’s ballot that could provide a new source of funds to ensure that our schools are safe and secure and that our children are better prepared for the future.

This Monday, July 20, Charlottesville City Council added a referendum to the November 3 election asking voters whether to increase the local sales tax by up to 1% to raise money for school construction and renovations. 

If Charlottesville voters pass the local sales tax increase, it would generate an estimated $12 million annually for the next 20 years, solely for the purposes of upgrading and modernizing CCS’s aging school infrastructure. 

Upgrades to our facilities would ensure that

1. Our schools continue to be safe and secure.

2. Older facilities are up to today’s educational standards.

3. Our children are life-ready and competitive in today’s workforce.

The tax would not apply to groceries, essential personal hygiene products, and prescription medications. It would go into effect in early 2027 and remain in place until June 30, 2046. 

Details About Priority Areas for School Facility Funds

• Charlottesville Early Learning Center: Most funding for a new preschool on the campus of Walker has already been allocated, but revenue from the sales tax could help bring this project over the finish line
• Charlottesville High School: Most current classrooms are windowless and lack space for collaboration; many restrooms are in disrepair (above center); the building lacks space for ROTC and other career-readiness programs
• Jackson-Via Elementary School: Has no school cafeteria or kitchen (meals are prepared at CHS and driven over daily); classrooms lack natural light; media center is in a hallway; auditorium has no seats (above right); gym facilities are out of date
• Greenbrier Elementary School: Has no school cafeteria; building design prevents secure vestibule connected to front office (above left); the auditorium needs new seating; plumbing infrastructure regularly malfunctions

Learn more at https://charlottesvilleschools.org/facilities

We will continue to update families and the community throughout the fall. Thank you for your continued partnership, support, and dedication to the success of Charlottesville City Schools students.

Dr. Royal Gurley
Superintendent, Charlottesville City Schools