Voting "Yes" to renew the Seminole County Penny Sales Tax this November is an investment in our community. Since 1991, the tax, a one-cent addition on every dollar spent, has generated over $1.8 billion, funding miles of new and reconstructed roadways, many sidewalks, and numerous intersection improvements, roadway drainage projects, stormwater projects, mast arm conversions, new signals, and countywide fiber-optic installations.
In 2022 alone, the Penny Sales Tax generated $101 million, of which $56 million was collected for Seminole County projects, and the remaining funds were allocated to Seminole County cities and Seminole County Public Schools. Renewing this tax, set to expire on December 31, 2024, will continue to provide much-needed funding for another ten years, support the county's growth, and contribute to better roads, public safety, and improved school facilities.
For our school district, which has earned state and national recognition for academic excellence, this funding is crucial. The revenue supports school improvements, security upgrades, classroom technology, and essential maintenance projects. Without the continuation of the Penny Sales Tax, our already underfunded schools could face severe setbacks, impacting the quality of education for thousands of students. The district relies on these funds to provide a safe and innovative learning environment, and losing them could result in delayed improvements or cuts to critical programs.
The renewal would keep the sales tax rate at 7%, which similar to neighboring counties. This is not a new tax but a continuation of a program that has already been approved three times over three decades.
Opponents argue that increased property tax revenues should cover the county's needs, but property taxes alone cannot fund large-scale infrastructure projects. The Penny Sales Tax ensures that everyone who shops in Seminole County, including visitors, contributes to essential improvements. It also avoids a financial burden on homeowners, ensuring that the tax remains fair for all residents. The Florida Department of Revenue estimates that visitors, not residents, pay 20% to 30% of Penny Sales Tax funds.
Voting "Yes" guarantees ongoing support for vital projects such as road expansions, flood prevention, emergency services, and educational facility upgrades. Rejecting the renewal will jeopardize these projects, leaving our community underfunded and unprepared for future demands.
Let's continue to build a stronger future together. Voting “Yes” is crucial. It's not just a vote—it's a critical part of shaping our community's future!