Polk County commissioners have voted to place a one-mill property tax referendum on the November 2026 ballot to increase funding for the school district.

The four-year measure, beginning July 1, 2027, would generate approximately $76 to $82 million annually. Under the proposal, 80% of revenue would fund recruiting, retaining, and compensating school-based staff, including teachers, bus drivers, custodians, classroom aides, and administrators. The remaining 20% would support school safety and security, fine and performing arts, career and technical education, and early learning programs.

The tax would cost homeowners an average of $260 per year, or about $22 per month, though costs would vary by property value.

Supporters say the district needs to match funding levels in neighboring counties that have passed similar referendums, while opponents cite the financial burden on homeowners and want changes to how such measures reach the ballot.

If approved by voters on November 3, 2026, the school district plans to establish an independent citizens’ oversight committee to ensure transparency in spending.

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