Reasons to Support Extending the Community Investment Tax in Hillsborough

Hillsborough’s Big Metro Dreams Ain’t Cheap

The Community Investment Tax: A Game Changer

Hey, listen up. Hillsborough County’s booming like never before, and it ain’t by accident. The Community Investment Tax (CIT) is what’s been pumping life into this place. This half-percent sales tax has been pouring cash into our roads, utilities, parks, libraries—you name it. Renewing this tax is essential. Why? Because it keeps our quality of life up and sets us up for future wins.

28 Years of Progress, Baby

Since 1996, Hillsborough voters have seen about $2.8 billion in public projects. Yeah, Raymond James Stadium—home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—gets all the attention. But the CIT also funded 784 projects: roads, bridges, schools, parks, and even museums. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of local taxes.

What’s on the Ballot?

This tax runs out in 2026. But come November, you’ll see Hillsborough County Referendum No. 1 on the ballot. This would extend the tax another 15 years, through 2041. It’s a no-brainer, folks. This cash is irreplaceable for those big-ticket projects we all need. You can read more about the specifics on Ballotpedia.

The Birth of CIT: A Bipartisan Effort

So, why did we need this tax in the first place? Back in the early ’90s, Hillsborough was a mess. Overcrowded schools, broken-down police cars, and lousy roads. The local government had billion-dollar deficits. That’s when they came up with CIT as a bipartisan fix to a local mess.

Big Upgrades Across the County

Check it out: The tax has covered 24 fire station projects, sprucing up hundreds of parks, fixing 70 intersections, and building 32 bridges. Plus, six new or revamped libraries. And let’s not forget the countless upgrades to our roads, schools, utility systems, justice network, and cultural facilities.

The School District Controversy

Here’s something dumb the county commission did, though. They shortened the tax’s term and slashed the school district’s take from 25% to just 5%. That’s a raw deal. A longer term makes it easier to borrow for big, hairy projects that transform communities. But hey, 15 years still gives us room to breathe, and the school district has other ways to get funds.

Future Projects on Deck

With an extension, Hillsborough is planning $1.3 billion on transportation alone. Picture less traffic on Lithia Pinecrest Road. New fire stations, better jails, and sheriff’s offices improve response times. Flood-control and sewer work will make neighborhoods healthier. Check out more specifics on the local government’s official site.

Tampa’s Budget Breakdown

So, here’s the skinny on the budget. Tampa’s got $783 million set aside for roads, new police and fire vehicles, and park improvements. Temple Terrace is looking at $54 million for a new police department, fire station, and park upgrades. Plant City is gunning for fire stations and parks to handle east Hillsborough’s growth. The school district aims to use its slice of the pie—$188 million—for new schools around Wimauma and Apollo Beach.

Out-of-Towners Chip In Too

Here’s a fun fact: Out-of-town visitors cover about 20% of the tax. So, next time you’re stuck in traffic behind a snowbird, remember—they’re funding your local park.

Trust in Local Government

Voters should have faith that local governments will use the funds wisely. Hillsborough’s been top-notch in showing exactly where the CIT money goes. They’ve got an easy-to-use online link that lets you follow projects from start to finish. A state audit gave a thumbs up, calling the county’s public outreach “useful, timely and accurate.” Expect that high bar to stay the same.

Ensuring Quality of Life

Providing for 1.5 million people isn’t cheap. But quality police and fire services, good roads, clean parks, and modern schools keep the region thriving. Hillsborough needs to stay forward-thinking and invest in the next gen. So, on Hillsborough County Referendum No. 1, the Tampa Bay Times Editorial Board says go ahead, vote “For.”

Overall, Hillsborough’s got big dreams, and keeping that CIT rolling is how we make them real. Don’t mess this up, folks.