Referendum to Continue School Funding Through Property Tax Passes Easily in Etowah County

Etowah County – Voters have overwhelmingly approved the continuation of a long-standing property tax that funds local schools, ensuring that Etowah County and Gadsden City Schools will continue receiving critical financial support.

The tax, which has been in place since the mid-1940s, must be reaffirmed by voters every 20 years. On Tuesday, May 20, residents took to the polls in a referendum that saw little resistance and passed with roughly 90% approval.

Despite the strong support, voter turnout was notably low—only about 2.3% of registered voters cast ballots, according to Etowah County Probate Judge Scott Hassell.

The referendum featured two ballot items: one concerning Etowah County and Attalla City Schools, and the other focused on Gadsden City Schools. Combined, the taxes generate approximately $15 million annually for the school systems.

See our previous story here: https://weisradio.com/2025/05/20/etowah-county-voters-head-to-the-polls-for-crucial-school-tax-renewal-referendum/