CLAY COUNTY, Fla. — The push for a new tax to fix Clay County schools has been delayed. A judge ruled Thursday evening in favor of county commissioners to postpone the vote for a half cent sales tax on the November ballot.
“Through this whole thing, the children are the ones that lose in the end,” Clay County School Board member Janice Kerekes said. “We all lose and especially the children.”
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The district gave Action News Jax several pictures of its aging buildings. The pictures show rusting lockers, water fountains and air-conditioning units, as well as the need for structural repairs. The district said they need approximately $318 million for repairs and renovations and $300 million to build new school buildings.
In June, Action News Jax reported the Clay County School Board voted in favor of placing a half cent sales tax on the November ballot to fund the repairs. However, county commissioners denied it and said it needs more work. The school board then filed a lawsuit.
RELATED: Continuing coverage: No date set for half-cent sales tax on ballot | Clay County half cent sales tax: Judge expected to rule on resolution Friday | Judge gives Clay County commissioners a week to explain half-cent sales tax denial
A judge made the deciding vote Thursday evening, ruling in favor of the county commissioners. As a result, the half cent sale tax will not go on the November ballot.
“I’m so extremely disappointed in our county commissioners,” Kerekes said. “It’s about our children, at the end of the day we’re doing what’s right for our children.”
Kerekes said it is likely the school board will make an appeal. Action News Jax reached out to the board’s attorney to learn when it might be filed and waiting to hear back.
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