By Shawn Kirkpatrick

Opelika Observer

Voters in Opelika cast their ballots Tuesday in a special election to renew and continue the annual levy and collection of the $5 million property tax for education in the Opelika City Schools. The tax renewal passed and is renewed for the next 30 years.

According to a press release from the city, unofficial results from the city showed that the measure passed by a 1,323-72 vote.

The Opelika City Council will hold a special council meeting next Tuesday at noon in the City Council Chambers at City Hall to officially declare the results of the special election. The meeting is open to the public.

Opelika City Schools Dr. Mark Neighbors and Mayor Gary Fuller say they are pleased with the results.

“I would like to express my appreciation to the citizens of Opelika for renewing the 5 mill tax to support education in the Opelika City Schools.  The local funds generated by this tax are extremely important to us and will help our schools continue to provide excellent opportunities for our students.  We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our community,” Neighbors said.

Fuller added that the tax renewal is crucial to student development and the future economy of Opelika.

“This local revenue is critical for the continued success of programs like band, choral, career tech, technology, instructional coaches and more. These programs are far reaching and are critical to workforce development and industries. We are grateful to the people of Opelika for seeing the need and supporting our school system,” Fuller said.