Oct. 26, 2026 Editor, The News-Gazette: We should ask hard questions of any new tax. I believe Lexington’s proposed five-year, 1 percent local option sales tax is unique and responsible. It will assist in meeting two existing obligations with state law restricting its use to school construction and renovation.
The first is Lexington City Schools’ deliberate asset management program. If you’ve owned a home or run a business, you know deferred maintenance isn’t savings; it’s debt with interest. Construction costs have climbed sharply, a trend likely to continue. This referendum gives Lexington a way to pay for these needs now.
The second is the city’s commitment, under an agreement with Rockbridge County, to pay its share of impending countydirected improvements at Rockbridge County High School. These costs are fixed, leaving no wiggle room.
The measure on the ballot is consumption-based, applying to many purchases, including those by our thousands of visitors and travelers, and W&L and VMI students. It does not apply to groceries, essential personal hygiene items, fuel, or prescriptions, sparing families’ most basic expenses. The immediate alternative is not “no tax.” It is higher real estate taxes, more borrowing, or both.
These one-time capital costs can be paid with this time-limited tax, not permanent budget cuts or a permanent tax increase. This tax carries an expiration date in five years. Every dollar collected and every project funded could be reported publicly each year, so we can see exactly where the money goes.
Well-maintained schools protect property values and attract families and employers. Paying for school construction and renovation through a unique, responsible, voter-approved sales tax is the judicious choice. I urge you to vote yes. JESSE S. LYONS Lexington
