Etowah County Voters Head to the Polls for Crucial School Tax Renewal Referendum

Etowah County, AL — May 20, 2025
Voters across Etowah County are heading to the polls today to cast their ballots in a Special School Tax Referendum that will determine the continuation of a longstanding property tax crucial to funding public education throughout the county. While the word “tax” often sparks debate, officials across Etowah’s three school systems are working hard to make one thing crystal clear: this is not a new tax, not a tax increase, and not an additional tax.

Instead, today’s referendum is about preserving the status quo—maintaining a local property tax that has supported area schools since 1946. The vote is required because, under Alabama law, these types of school district ad valorem taxes must be reauthorized by voters every 20 years. The last such vote occurred in 2005, when voters overwhelmingly supported its renewal.

The district taxes in question include 5.6 and 3.4 mills for Etowah County and Attalla City, and 6 and 4 mills for Gadsden City. Together, these levies generate substantial, consistent local revenue that stays entirely within the county, directly benefiting teachers, students, and schools.

What’s at Stake

This tax provides $6.9 million annually for Etowah County Schools, $6.2 million for Gadsden City Schools, and $800,000 for Attalla City Schools. These funds cover critical operational and instructional expenses including:

• Salaries of locally funded teachers

• Substitute teachers, school secretaries, and bookkeepers

• Coaches and band directors

• Maintenance of school campuses and facilities

• Employment of technology staff, school nurses, and instructional assistants

• Payment for custodians, maintenance personnel, and other essential support staff

• Funding for academic supplements and other programs that enrich student learning

“This is not about asking for more—it’s about holding on to what we have,” said Dr. Alan Cosby, Superintendent of Etowah County Schools. “You’ve seen other districts in Alabama recently try to increase millage and fail. That’s not what this is. We’re simply asking our community to continue the investment it has faithfully made for nearly 80 years.”

Broad Support from School Leaders

The campaign for renewal has received unified support from the county’s top education officials. Cosby joined Keith Blackwell, Superintendent of Gadsden City Schools, and Jeff Colegrove, Superintendent of Attalla City Schools, at the Etowah County Commission meeting on February 18, where they successfully lobbied to have the referendum placed on the ballot.

Blackwell emphasized how critical the tax revenue is to the stability of his school system. “When you look at what this money pays for—it could be 80 to 100 teacher salaries or the cost of powering our buildings. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.”

Probate Judge Scott Hassell, who oversees local elections, said the ballot has been designed to be simple and clear, with a single measure covering all the taxes to avoid confusion for voters.

Why It Matters

Local school taxes such as this one play an essential role in supplementing state and federal education funding. While those other sources often come with restrictions or mandates, local tax dollars provide flexibility and are vital in keeping schools fully staffed, properly maintained, and equipped with the resources students need to succeed.

The continuation of this tax will ensure Etowah County’s schools can retain quality personnel, keep class sizes manageable, offer a well-rounded curriculum including music and athletics, and maintain clean and safe learning environments.

How to Vote

Polls are open today, Monday, May 20, across Etowah County. For voters unable to vote in person, absentee ballots have been available in advance. Election officials urge all eligible voters to participate and make their voices heard.

“This is a vote that directly affects the quality of education in our community,” said Colegrove. “Every dollar goes back into our classrooms, our teachers, and ultimately, our children’s future.”

A History of Support

The longevity of this tax—dating back to 1946—speaks to the community’s enduring support for public education. In 2005, the last time the measure was on the ballot, voters approved it by a wide margin. School leaders hope the community will once again recognize the value of this investment.

“This is how we ensure our schools remain strong without placing any new burden on taxpayers,” said Cosby. “It’s about sustaining success—not changing course.”

For more information about polling locations or voting eligibility, residents should contact the Etowah County Board of Registrars or visit the county website.