Hillsborough County voters to decide on renewal of half-cent sales tax

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Hillsborough County voters will decide Tuesday whether to renew a half-cent sales tax that has been in place for nearly three decades.

It's the first time the Community Investment Tax (CIT) has been up for renewal since it was approved by voters in 1996.

According to officials, the majority of the fund has gone toward improving the county's infrastructure, providing resources for first responders and aiding schools.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is one of several local leaders who have been pushing heavily for the public to vote in favor of renewing the tax.

In an interview with News Channel 8, Castor called the funding "imperative," adding that about 20% of the CIT is paid for by tourists and people driving into Hillsborough County for work.

Voters have appeared to have mixed opinions on the renewal, with some citing uncertainties about what the tax is, as well as worries about transparency in where the funds will be going.

If approved, the tax will be renewed for another 15 years. However, if voters decide against it, Castor said the county will have to find the funds somewhere else and may have to cut services.