The Virginia Assocation of School Superintendents is in support of HB531 and other such bills. We feel it is a good support of revenue for capital projects.

Hello, I am writing to urge you to support local control over tax dollars for school facilities. Local voters and local parents should have the right to approve or deny a special 1% sales tax for this purpose. These taxes don’t fill government coffers - they can only be used for school construction and renovation, can exempt groceries and medications, and have a built in-expiration date. The General Assembly has previously granted this authority to nine localities, seven red and two blue (according to how they voted in the 2020 presidential election). This year, three politically diverse localities have requested this authority: Isle of Wight County, the City of Charlottesville, and Prince Edward County. There is also a bill to grant this local authority to all municipalities in the Commonwealth. This local tax for schools was unanimously recommended by the bipartisan Commission on School Construction and Modernization. It has broad support and has already passed the Senate. Governor Youngkin has promised a record investment in education while also urging us to move beyond our fractured politics. Please support local parents and voters with the authority to decide for themselves on local taxes for their schools. I respectfully ask you to reconsider the decision to table bills HB531, HB545 and HB63. Many thanks for your consideration of this important issue, David Azzam Charlottesville, Virginia

I am an educator in Petersburg City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Petersburg City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Pleasants Lane, Cool Springs, Lakemont, Walnut Hill Elementary, Westview Early Childhood and Blandford Alternative. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a teacher in Petersburg City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Petersburg City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Pleasants Lane, Cool Springs, Lakemont, Walnut Hill Elementary, Westview Early Childhood and Blandford Alternative. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of students in Albemarle County Public Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Albemarle needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Stone-Robinson. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I support this bill.

I am in agreement with bill HB531 & HB454.

I taught in both Petersburg VA and Prince George County VA. The school systems are in need of new technology especially in the vocational area. All students are not going to college. This will afford them the opportunity to develop skills for meaningful employment.

I am a Supervisor of Alternative Programs for Petersburg City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Petersburg City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Blandford LearningAcademy. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today.

I am a parent of a student in Henrico County Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Henrico County needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including John Rolfe Middle School, Baker Elementary School, Montrose Elementary School, and Jacob Adams Elementary School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

Ben Ragsdale, 3821 Custis Rd., Richmond, VA. Virginia communities have many serious problems which we must continue to address over coming years. Many tools must be utilized. But nothing is more fundamental than giving our public schools the necessary funding to meet children's educational needs. Though policy makers' tasks are many, the advancement of successful schooling, widening opportunity, and the upward mobility of families should be central to your purpose. HB531 is a very reasonable vehicle to advance these goals. I urge you to support its passage. And there are other vital, compelling matters concerning funding for Virginia's children which will be before you. Full funding for our Standards of Quality and large appropriations for our schools' physical needs are paramount. People say "There are SO MANY needs in our state." True. But nothing will pay dividends like putting cash in family coffers -- and that is most likely to come with better education. Thank you.

I am a Richmond City home owner and RPS parent, and I am in support of levying a 1% property tax to fund school construction.

Please support this bill. Richmond public schools really need the xtra funds. Thank you.

My name is Elaine Summerfield, a resident of the city of Richmond and I’m writing to share support for HB 531. Students of Richmond public schools deserve quality school facilities to support their education. My neighborhood’s Henderson Middle School is just one example of the dire need: moldy carpets, pests, design based on outdated theories of open learning environment. Please ensure localities are empowered to do what is right for their children, families, and educators. Please support HB 531! Sincerely, Elaine Summerfield 1240 Westminster Ave Richmond 23227

I am writing in support of HB531.

In support of HB 531 and HB 1099 Good morning and thank you for considering the school modernization bills on today’s agenda. I don’t need to tell you how urgent the situation is surrounding school construction. Years of financial stress have left Billions in unmet school construction and renovation needs. In Newport News, our five-year Capital Improvement Plan asks the city for $104 million just for bread and butter renovations: HVAC, roofs, ceilings, paving, learning trailer replacements. The bad news is that our city has been able to provide less than half that amount on average over the past five-year plan. And even though this issue has been talked about for decades, the problem has gotten much, much worse. A recent editorial in the Daily Press/Virginian Pilot hammered home that point, saying in part: As long ago as 1996, a Virginia Department of Education survey warned that 63% of public schools were 25 or more years old and needed renovating or replacing… Nowhere near enough has been done. The most recent survey says that about 14% of schools are operating at 100% or more of capacity. Today, about half of Virginia’s schools are more than 50 years old. That’s why we are so supportive of the legislation crafted by the Commission on School Construction and Modernization. Their legislative package provides a VARIETY of tools needed to fix our schools, and the legislation on today’s docket will provide a huge benefit to communities. We urge support of the bills on today’s docket that would permit localities to ask for up to a 1 percent increase in the sales tax dedicated to their school facility needs. • This is an optional bill that offers local control. • Any increase must be approved by voters approved in a referendum Please allow localities to have this OPTIONAL tool that will provide the citizens of our locality an opportunity for their voice to be heard. The elected School Board of Newport News endorses these bills and others from the School Modernization Commission. We respectfully ask for your support. Sincerely, Patrick Finneran Representing Newport News Public Schools

I have a 5.5 and 8 year old who are attending City of Charlottesville schools that haven’t had a new building or major remodel done in 47 years! The community is now ready to completely remodel its middle school and we need the ability to vote to finance this remodel. Please allow us to exercise local governance to decide whether we want to finance the plan for the remodel. Thanks!

Good day, We are in dire need of all Petersburg City Public Elementary Schools being replaced. Each of these schools are way outdated. Many leaking roofs, HVAC units are inoperable, poor quality of clean air flow which contributes to health disparities. Poor conditions leads to poor outcomes. Not because the teachers aren't teaching and their/our Youth aren't capable of learning, but because of the dulling of their senses due to poor clean air, mold, etc. Air vents, air filters can only be changed out and cleaned but so much, new systems will help eliminate this problem and give our Youth a fresh and new start in life. The design of the current buildings do not say, "We want you here, You can become all you want to be in this educational enviornment, We Care" Parents, Students, Administrators, Staff and Teachers all benefit from new schools and the technology that comes with it. The Middle School and High School needs to be renovated at a minimum, replacement would be fantastic. We are competing world wide, yet, we aren't keeping up with our local regions. We need House Bill 531 (HB531) sent forward so it can become law. Show us you care as much as we do. Pastor Michael E Shannon, Sr.

I am a parent in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. I also support HB 545 to allow the City of Charlottesville to use an additional tax for the benefit of school construction. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. My son attends one such school, Fox Elementary, and is currently zoned to continue through RPS in school exclusively over that age! My child, like many in City of Charlottesville and Richmond schools, is lucky to have incredible staff--from his teacher all the way up through administration--who want to ensure safe and healthy learning environments but are precluded from doing so due to lack of funding towards renovations or new construction of buildings. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I'm a parent of students who are current and former students in the Charlottesville Public schools. We need to update our schools here, and our community, through its patent-teacher organizations, school board, and other elected leaders has decided that it is time for this reasonable tax increase in order to pay for these renocations. We need local control to do so. Ease grant us that.

HENRICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS STRONGLY SUPPORTS HB 531 School Construction Fund and Program; created and established. Virginia has over 52% of its schools that were built 50+ years ago and are in need of significant renovations and repairs. The condition of the school building is the first thing that a parent or community member sees when visiting the school. Peeling paint, leaking roofs, exposed pipes, broken tiles, bathroom facilities that do not work, no hot water - all send a message that our schools don’t matter. And if our school buildings don’t matter, then our children’s education must not be a priority either. Help Virginia restore its schools. Localities cannot fund these repairs and renovations with local tax dollars. Virginia needs to help with state funds and/or grants. Thank you for your support.

Please vote yes on HB531. I am a parent of three kids in Richmond City Public Schools. Richmond - like other localities across the state that struggle with aging facilities and inadequate funding - needs the option to impose a modest sales and use tax premium, to improve our school buildings and provide better learning environments for our kids. Thank you for your support of this common-sense reform.

I am a [parent of students/teacher/student] in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including [NAME OF SCHOOLS]. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a resident of Petersburg Virginia with family members who attend or are enrolled in the Petersburg Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The City of Petersburg needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. Even consider turning over the Peabody high School building to the Peabody Alumni association that can do something with that building that is just sitting there. This bill would be good for the City. It would relieve the fear fear of having other schools ending up being another Peabody High School or Virginia Avenue building waiting for complete decay. It seems so appropriate to be submitting this information now as the local news reports the Petersburg High School not having heat and sending children home because of the cold in the building not the weather outside. I hope HB stands for Help Build and not hold back!!

I am a parent of a student in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including George Wythe High School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Richmond City, the capital of the Commonwealth, currently has inadequate fiscal capacity to fund new school construction in an acceptable time frame: to be blunt, on its current path, the city will continue to have inadequate school buildings for decades to come, and students will continue to suffer. This bill can help Richmond find the funds to rebuild or renovate schools at a significantly faster pace while also meeting other urgent needs. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of 3 kids in Richmond City Public Schools at John B Cary Elementary school. I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. All children deserve functional, safe, updated schools. Environments matter. As we know there isn’t one bill that solves all the issues we face, and I am not saying that updating facilities solves all of our problems. However, I am saying that it’s the place to start. It is a problem you all in your seats of power can attempt to solve by passing this bill. When we invest in the school environments our children attend we send the message that we value our children. This is the time to send the message that we value our children.

I support HB 531 - it will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. I'm a resident of Charlottesville, and a parent, and we need additional revenue to fund the reconfiguration of our public schools to improve the learning experience of its students. The residents of our City should have the right to vote on and implement a local sales tax to fund these critical investments - and the General Assembly should not stand in the way of our ability to do so. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in Charlottesville and across the state. We have a plan in place with designs ready to roll. The community, elected leaders and School Board and all on board. But we need this additional funding source to make it happen. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth - and do not stand in the way of our citizens having the ability to raise much needed revenue - by supporting HB531. Thank you, Geoffrey Suttle

I am a tax paying citizen of Richmond, VA and see up close the outdated, deplorable and unsafe public schools. VA is a very wealthy state and should be pouring more of our tax dollars into school structures; especially school districts that are severely under funded. Much of the responsibility of maintaining and building new environmentally safe schools should be the state of Virginia top priority especially during a pandemic. Since the VA government is not funding our schools appropriately the revenue from an increase in property and sales tax should be allocated to maintaining, renovating existing schools and new school contruction projects. I support both bills HB531 and HB545.

I am a grandparent of four Richmond Public School students and I ask you to support House Bill 531 to allow the cities to use a sales tax up to 1% to pay for the construction and renovation of schools in dire need of such improvements. We have numerous schools in RPS that have outdated and unsafe systems and buildings in great need of attention. Many of our schools are old and have not received consistent maintenance and repair. Some schools are beyond repair and need to be demolished and replaced. I ask you to help Richmond provide a safe and appropriate learning environment for our students by passing this bill.

I am a parent of students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of a student Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Clark, CHS, Greenbrier and Venable . Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent with 2 students in Charlottesville Schools and support HB 531 and HB545 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Walker elemebtary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Sincerely, Jen Otner

I do not have nor will I be having any children, but I support HB531 because kids deserve more funding and I know that everyone benefits from better schools.

I am a parent in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including George Wythe High School and Henderson Middle School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including [NAME OF SCHOOLS]. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

Comments Document

Please see my attached letter.

I am a parent in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

The City of Portsmouth supports both HB531 and HB1099. It is better to provide this as a local option statewide, rather than have individual municipalities seeking this ability every session.

I am a parent of two children in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you for your time.

I support HB531 and the opportunities it will provide for school districts across the commonwealth. Allowing localities to use a sales tax for school construction gives them additional tools to renovate schools. Right now, we're sending a message that students have little value by allowing them to go to schools that are old and falling apart. Virginia cannot say it prioritizes education if we don't put our kids first. That means finding ways to fully fund our schools and making sure public education is accessible, healthy, and safe for everyone -- including educators, administrators, and support personnel. I remember having to wear a coat during gym class in the winter because the windows were broken at my elementary school. I took my SATs in a high school that had no air conditioning. I've visited schools that had cracked floors and stained ceilings from water damage. These are things I will never forget. This has an impact on the learning experience of students, their self-esteem, and their mental health. Give our kids a fighting chance of receiving a quality education by passing HB531.

I am a resident of Richmond City and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, Richmond is home to several of these outdated buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of a second grader in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 and HB 545 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

As a parent to two children in Richmond Public Schools and the Chair of the RPS School Health Advisory Board, I ask the Committee to pass this bill to increase local control to raise needed revenue for our schools.

I am a parent of two elementary school students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to fund the reconfiguration of our upper elementary and middle schools along with an early childhood education center to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. I had a chance to tour Buford Middle School last year and was stunned. It was like walking back into my junior high from the late 1980s which was already falling apart. Our kids deserve better. The buildings in which our kids learn matter. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in Cville and across the state. I am concerned that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today -- and that are a shadow of what their peers in neighboring states enjoy. Indeed, despite widespread public support for the Charlottesville schools reconfiguration project, we need revenue from a sales tax to actually guarantee this project -- which the City has discussed for more than two decades -- moves forward. We have a plan in place with designs ready to roll. The community, elected leaders and School Board and all on board. But we need this additional funding source to make it happen. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you, Annie Suttle

As a parent of 4 children in the Charlottesville City Schools, and a citizen who recognizes the vast community benefit of improved school buildings, I support these bills.

I am a parent of four students in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City desperately needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Thomas Henderson Middle School and John Marshall High School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Investing in education is investing in our future.

I am a member of a church in Petersburg. One of our goals is to improve and build new schools in the City. Of Petersburg. This bill would help us to meet that goal. I support this bill.

I am a parent of Richmond City Public Schools students and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including my children's future middle and high schools, Thomas J Henderson and John Marshall. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of 2 current and 2 former students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. The current state of our learning facilities does not reflect our community's commitment to equity and providing an optimal education to all students. We would like the ability to decide as a community what our local projects are and have the ability to raise funds in a way that best reflects the wishes of our constituents.

It is critical that the general assembly pass HB 531 and HB 545. I am both a parent of a student in Charlottesville City Schools and someone who studies education, and the need for financial support for new school construction is clear in our communities. Please pass this bill so we can use our sales tax revenue to build schools that will better serve our students. Our crumbling education infrastructure is long overdue for updating, and we can't do it without the flexibility to use sales tax revenue for school construction.

I am a parent of a high school student in the Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The city of Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Walker, Buford and CHS. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of two current students and spouse of a teacher, as well as a former school administrator in Charlottesville Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to combine 6-8th graders in one school, eliminating a 5-6 then a 7-8 school in order to improve the learning experience of its students. Currently, students endure too many transitions, attending four schools in a six year period BY DESIGN. This needs to change, the division wants change, and this bill could make it happen. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. In fact, the last new building in Charlottesville City was built 48 years ago. The students of Charlottesville, and Virginia, deserve better than outdated and tired buildings. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix and combine the schools in my school district. If the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms and misaligned schools that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of students in Richmond Public Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond desperately needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Henderson Middle, John Marshall High School, George Wythe High School, and many more. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-100 year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Sincerely, Julie Joyner

I am a parent of students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Jackson-Via Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I support these bills by Delegate Hudson!

The Virginia Assocation of School Superintendents is in support of HB531 and other such bills. We feel it is a good support of revenue for capital projects.

I am a parent of four children in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of 2 students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including all of the City of Charlottesville school buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The City of Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Johnson, Clark, Burnley Moran, the middle school and high schools. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you for listening! Dave McDaniel

A quality, 21st century education cannot be delivered in decaying, outdated buildings. The proposed sales tax is a prudent way for our community to invest in teachers, students, and our collective future.

I am a parent of 3 students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Burnley-Moran, Buford, Walker and many other schools. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

Richmond Public Schools desperately needs significant funding for their 42 (might be 44) aged facilities . Over 2/3 of these facilities are more than 70 years old and almost half of all its facilities need major or complete renovation! The industry standard just to maintain these facilities is over $3/sq ft; unfortunately, Richmond has been funding closer to $.70/sq ft. This proposed revenue could greatly shift the decades of disinvestment in our schools facilities.

Allowing localities to impose a sales tax to generate revenue for school construction is a crucial tool. It's especially important for cities, who tend to be host state properties, thus losing out on real estate tax revenue. As long as we have a broken LCI, we need ways to support improving infrastructure for our students. I am a current resident of Richmond, and former resident of Charlottesville. Facility funding concerns have been in both localities need to be addressed.

Our schools need renovation. Some (most) haven't been changed in decades and aren't adequately meeting students' needs. This sales tax gives our cities the opportunity and revenue to make the change that is desperately needed. I am a current Virginia Beach citizen, former Charlottesville citizen, who supports bills HB531 and HB545.

Hello, I am writing to urge you to support local control over tax dollars for school facilities. Local voters and local parents should have the right to approve or deny a special 1% sales tax for this purpose. These taxes don’t fill government coffers - they can only be used for school construction and renovation, can exempt groceries and medications, and have a built in-expiration date. The General Assembly has previously granted this authority to nine localities, seven red and two blue (according to how they voted in the 2020 presidential election). This year, three politically diverse localities have requested this authority: Isle of Wight County, the City of Charlottesville, and Prince Edward County. There is also a bill to grant this local authority to all municipalities in the Commonwealth. This local tax for schools was unanimously recommended by the bipartisan Commission on School Construction and Modernization. It has broad support and has already passed the Senate. Governor Youngkin has promised a record investment in education while also urging us to move beyond our fractured politics. Please support local parents and voters with the authority to decide for themselves on local taxes for their schools. I respectfully ask you to reconsider the decision to table bills HB531, HB545 and HB63. Many thanks for your consideration of this important issue, David Azzam Charlottesville, Virginia

I am an educator and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The schools need this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, communities all over the state are full of these outdated buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in Virginia's school districts. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of students in Albemarle County Public Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Albemarle needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Stone-Robinson. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am in agreement with bill HB531 & HB454.

I am a Supervisor of Alternative Programs for Petersburg City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Petersburg City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Blandford LearningAcademy. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today.

I have a 5.5 and 8 year old who are attending City of Charlottesville schools that haven’t had a new building or major remodel done in 47 years! The community is now ready to completely remodel its middle school and we need the ability to vote to finance this remodel. Please allow us to exercise local governance to decide whether we want to finance the plan for the remodel. Thanks!

I am a parent in Richmond City Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. I also support HB 545 to allow the City of Charlottesville to use an additional tax for the benefit of school construction. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. My son attends one such school, Fox Elementary, and is currently zoned to continue through RPS in school exclusively over that age! My child, like many in City of Charlottesville and Richmond schools, is lucky to have incredible staff--from his teacher all the way up through administration--who want to ensure safe and healthy learning environments but are precluded from doing so due to lack of funding towards renovations or new construction of buildings. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I'm a parent of students who are current and former students in the Charlottesville Public schools. We need to update our schools here, and our community, through its parent-teacher organizations, school board, and other elected leaders has decided that it is time for this reasonable tax increase in order to pay for these renovations. We need local control to do so. Please grant us that.

I am a resident of Petersburg Virginia with family members who attend or are enrolled in the Petersburg Public Schools and I support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The City of Petersburg needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. Even consider turning over the Peabody high School building to the Peabody Alumni association that can do something with that building that is just sitting there. This bill would be good for the City. It would relieve the fear fear of having other schools ending up being another Peabody High School or Virginia Avenue building waiting for complete decay. It seems so appropriate to be submitting this information now as the local news reports the Petersburg High School not having heat and sending children home because of the cold in the building not the weather outside. I hope HB stands for Help Build and not hold back!!

I am a tax paying citizen of Richmond, VA and see up close the outdated, deplorable and unsafe public schools. VA is a very wealthy state and should be pouring more of our tax dollars into school structures; especially school districts that are severely under funded. Much of the responsibility of maintaining and building new environmentally safe schools should be the state of Virginia top priority especially during a pandemic. Since the VA government is not funding our schools appropriately the revenue from an increase in property and sales tax should be allocated to maintaining, renovating existing schools and new school contruction projects. I support both bills HB531 and HB545.

I support HB531 and HB545 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

We are parents of two elementary school students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. . According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Our kids deserve better. The buildings in which our kids learn matter. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in Cville and across the state. I am concerned that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today -- and that are a shadow of what their peers in neighboring states enjoy. Indeed, despite widespread public support for the Charlottesville schools reconfiguration project, we need revenue from a sales tax to actually guarantee this project -- which the City has discussed for more than two decades -- moves forward. We have a plan in place with designs ready to roll. The community, elected leaders and School Board and all on board. But we need this additional funding source to make it happen. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank, Holly and Dave McDaniel

I am a parent of students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of a student Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Clark, CHS, Greenbrier and Venable . Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent with 2 students in Charlottesville Schools and support HB 531 and HB545 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Walker elemebtary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Sincerely, Jen Otner

I am a parent in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of charlottesville city schools and I am In strong support of a 1% sales tax to help rebuild/renovate and modernize our schools. The aging infrastructure and classrooms are hindering our children's ability to move forward in todays world and be prepared for what’s ahead. Please pass this legislation In support of our children! Thank you

I am a parent of a second grader in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 and HB 545 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of two elementary school students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to fund the reconfiguration of our upper elementary and middle schools along with an early childhood education center to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. I had a chance to tour Buford Middle School last year and was stunned. It was like walking back into my junior high from the late 1980s which was already falling apart. Our kids deserve better. The buildings in which our kids learn matter. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in Cville and across the state. I am concerned that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today -- and that are a shadow of what their peers in neighboring states enjoy. Indeed, despite widespread public support for the Charlottesville schools reconfiguration project, we need revenue from a sales tax to actually guarantee this project -- which the City has discussed for more than two decades -- moves forward. We have a plan in place with designs ready to roll. The community, elected leaders and School Board and all on board. But we need this additional funding source to make it happen. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you, Annie Suttle

As a parent of 4 children in the Charlottesville City Schools, and a citizen who recognizes the vast community benefit of improved school buildings, I support these bills.

I am a member of a church in Petersburg. One of our goals is to improve and build new schools in the City. Of Petersburg. This bill would help us to meet that goal. I support this bill.

I am a parent in Charlottesville Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford middle school. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. thank you!

I am a parent of 2 current and 2 former students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. The current state of our learning facilities does not reflect our community's commitment to equity and providing an optimal education to all students. We would like the ability to decide as a community what our local projects are and have the ability to raise funds in a way that best reflects the wishes of our constituents.

It is critical that the general assembly pass HB 531 and HB 545. I am both a parent of a student in Charlottesville City Schools and someone who studies education, and the need for financial support for new school construction is clear in our communities. Please pass this bill so we can use our sales tax revenue to build schools that will better serve our students. Our crumbling education infrastructure is long overdue for updating, and we can't do it without the flexibility to use sales tax revenue for school construction.

I am a parent of a high school student in the Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The city of Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Walker, Buford and CHS. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of two current students and spouse of a teacher, as well as a former school administrator in Charlottesville Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to combine 6-8th graders in one school, eliminating a 5-6 then a 7-8 school in order to improve the learning experience of its students. Currently, students endure too many transitions, attending four schools in a six year period BY DESIGN. This needs to change, the division wants change, and this bill could make it happen. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. In fact, the last new building in Charlottesville City was built 48 years ago. The students of Charlottesville, and Virginia, deserve better than outdated and tired buildings. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix and combine the schools in my school district. If the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms and misaligned schools that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our Commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of students in Richmond Public Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Richmond desperately needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Henderson Middle, John Marshall High School, George Wythe High School, and many more. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-100 year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Sincerely, Julie Joyner

I am a parent of students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville City needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Jackson-Via Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I support these bills by Delegate Hudson!

The Virginia Assocation of School Superintendents is in support of HB531 and other such bills. We feel it is a good support of revenue for capital projects.

I am a parent of four children in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Buford Middle School and Walker Upper Elementary. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent of 2 students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including all of the City of Charlottesville school buildings. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

I am a parent in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. The City of Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Johnson, Clark, Burnley Moran, the middle school and high schools. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you for listening! Dave McDaniel

A quality, 21st century education cannot be delivered in decaying, outdated buildings. The proposed sales tax is a prudent way for our community to invest in teachers, students, and our collective future.

I am a parent of 3 students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Burnley-Moran, Buford, Walker and many other schools. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.

Allowing localities to impose a sales tax to generate revenue for school construction is a crucial tool. It's especially important for cities, who tend to be host state properties, thus losing out on real estate tax revenue. As long as we have a broken LCI, we need ways to support improving infrastructure for our students. I am a current resident of Richmond, and former resident of Charlottesville. Facility funding concerns have been in both localities need to be addressed.

The City of Newport News supports HB 545 allowing local governing bodies and local voters to decide if they wish to impose a local sales tax for the construction and renovation of schools. More than half of our city schools are over 50 years old and the cost to replace even a single school is almost twice the City’s annual Capitol Improvement budget for the entire locality. Clearly we need tools in the tool box to address school construction. The longer we wait to act, the more expensive it will be. The great advantage of the Hudson bill is that it will allow, but not require, a local tax AND it leaves the final decision to the taxpayers. Also, given that there are several localities that already have this authority, HB 545 levels the playing field and makes public policy consistent across the board. Please support HB545.

Our schools need renovation. Some (most) haven't been changed in decades and aren't adequately meeting students' needs. This sales tax gives our cities the opportunity and revenue to make the change that is desperately needed. I am a current Virginia Beach citizen, former Charlottesville citizen, who supports bills HB531 and HB545.

Hello I’m Tisha Erby Mother of 5 boys , 4 are Richmond Public School Students and WE support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. [RPS-George Wythe High School] needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including George Wythe High School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community. Thank you so much for listening and remember #WytheCantWait #AllRPSCantWait #WeAreRPS

In support of HB 531 and HB 1099 Good morning and thank you for considering the school modernization bills on today’s agenda. I don’t need to tell you how urgent the situation is surrounding school construction. Years of financial stress have left Billions in unmet school construction and renovation needs. In Newport News, our five-year Capital Improvement Plan asks the city for $104 million just for bread and butter renovations: HVAC, roofs, ceilings, paving, learning trailer replacements. The bad news is that our city has been able to provide less than half that amount on average over the past five-year plan. And even though this issue has been talked about for decades, the problem has gotten much, much worse. A recent editorial in the Daily Press/Virginian Pilot hammered home that point, saying in part: As long ago as 1996, a Virginia Department of Education survey warned that 63% of public schools were 25 or more years old and needed renovating or replacing… Nowhere near enough has been done. The most recent survey says that about 14% of schools are operating at 100% or more of capacity. Today, about half of Virginia’s schools are more than 50 years old. That’s why we are so supportive of the legislation crafted by the Commission on School Construction and Modernization. Their legislative package provides a VARIETY of tools needed to fix our schools, and the legislation on today’s docket will provide a huge benefit to communities. We urge support of the bills on today’s docket that would permit localities to ask for up to a 1 percent increase in the sales tax dedicated to their school facility needs. • This is an optional bill that offers local control. • Any increase must be approved by voters approved in a referendum Please allow localities to have this OPTIONAL tool that will provide the citizens of our locality an opportunity for their voice to be heard. The elected School Board of Newport News endorses these bills and others from the School Modernization Commission. We respectfully ask for your support. Sincerely, Patrick Finneran Representing Newport News Public Schools

The City of Portsmouth supports both HB531 and HB1099. It is better to provide this as a local option statewide, rather than have individual municipalities seeking this ability every session.

The Virginia Assocation of School Superintendents is in support of HB531 and other such bills. We feel it is a good support of revenue for capital projects.

I am a parent of students in Charlottesville City Schools and support HB 531 which will allow all counties and cities to use a 1% sales tax to pay for the construction of new schools. Charlottesville needs this additional revenue to build new schools and modernize facilities to improve the learning experience of its students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, more than half of the state’s school buildings are more than 50 years old. Unfortunately, my community is home to several of these outdated buildings including Walker Upper Elementary and Buford Middle School. Students and teachers are placed in unsafe environments that may have leaky roofs, windowless classrooms, mold, poor ventilation, and broken HVAC systems. It is not helpful to the learning environment and development of children to attend school in buildings that harm their health and well-being. Having the sales tax as an option will give us the opportunity to fix the crumbling schools in my school district. I am afraid that if the General Assembly doesn’t pass this bill, another generation of students will be forced to sit in outdated, 50-year old classrooms that are inadequate for what students need today. Please prioritize education and the future of our commonwealth by taking this necessary step to invest in our schools, our students, and our community.