School board passes plan for half-cent sales tax to upgrade Duval County schools

“This is a historic moment,” said Duval County School Board Chair Lori Hershey after the 6-1 vote.

Action News Jax first reported in January that Duval County has the oldest schools in the state.
Local parents like Jarnell Cummings Sr. agree with the decision.

“So, we should all pay a little more to get the schools in tip top shape?” Action News Jax Reporter Russell Colburn asked Cummings.

“Sure,” he said.  “As long it represents all the kids, all sides of town.”

Councilwoman Joyce Morgan was there for the vote and spoke with Colburn after the meeting.

“Do you believe the voters should decide on a half-cent sales tax to put money toward aging schools?” Colburn asked.

Related: DCPS suggests proposals for aging school improvements, replacement | Duval County Public Schools outlines a solution for aging school | DCPS previews "Facilities Master Plan" for aging schools | Duval County Public Schools discusses how to fund nearly $2 billion to repair, replace schools | Duval County Public School Board to vote on half-cent sales tax to fund repairs, new schools

“Absolutely,” Morgan said.  “Absolutely, the voters should.”

“What about people who say this is rushed and it may cost upwards of $1 million to get this on the ballot?” Colburn asked.

“We’ll see, we’ll see,” Morgan said.  “We’ll see what all that pans out to be.”

Action News Jax got soft “yes” votes from five council members.  Two said “no.”

The rest either didn’t respond, or said they needed more information.

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