Stronger schools.
Smarter funding.
Our kids and teachers deserve schools that are safe, up-to-date and built for success.
When our schools thrive, our entire community wins.
This November, Prince Edward County has a proven opportunity to invest in our local schools. Neighboring counties like Charlotte and Halifax have already used this exact tool to support their school facilities—and they did it by tapping into sales tax revenue from out-of-town shoppers, taking the weight off local property owners.
Now, it's our turn.
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Why Support the Referendum?
01
Stronger schools.
Our public schools have new energy, strong leadership and real momentum. But while a new elementary school opens this year, our middle and high schools have needed attention for decades. From fixing roofs and updating heating and cooling systems to providing adequate facilities for athletics, art and music, this measure will help us provide our teachers and students with the spaces they need and deserve.
02
But smarter funding.
As a regional shopping destination and home to two colleges, Prince Edward attracts visitors every single day. Passing this referendum lets us tap into sales tax revenue from out-of-town shoppers—shifting some of the financial burden away from local property owners and home-grown businesses.
03
Something we can all get behind.
This isn’t a political issue; it’s a community issue. The effort to bring this vote to Prince Edward was supported by leaders from both parties in Richmond, backed overwhelmingly by local elected officials across the political spectrum, and has support from local business owners who understand that a strong public school system is essential for economic growth and our future tax base.
04
Local community helping local needs.
This is a local measure strictly for Prince Edward County—not a statewide tax. Every single penny collected would stay right here in our community. Not a dime can be spent anywhere else in Virginia.
05
Small change equalling big results.
The proposed single-penny-on-the-dollar (1%) sales tax would NOT apply to groceries. It is estimated to generate roughly $3.5 million annually, with a significant portion coming from visitors. This is by no means a windfall, but over 20 years, it would amount to meaningful help. Such dedicated funding for construction or renovation would help free up other funds to invest in recruiting and retaining our incredible teachers, coaches and staff.