By Shawn
Kirkpatrick
Opelika Observer
The Opelika City Council officially canvassed and recorded the results of last week’s municipal election in a special meeting yesterday.
According to turnouts provided by city officials, a measure to renew and extend the annual levy and collection of the $5 million property tax for education in the Opelika City Schools for the next 30 years passed by a 1,323-72 vote.
Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors and Mayor Gary Fuller said last week that they were 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.