Voters say no to one percent sales tax increase in New Kent

By Andre Jones | November 4, 2026 12:51 am

Voters in New Kent have said no to a one-percent general retail sales tax increase that would have been dedicated to major renovation projects to local schools.

Voters who took to the polls firmly opposed the additional tax increase by a margin of 8,474 against the increase, while 5,476 favored the additional cost.

The general retail sales tax would have seen the one percent increase dedicated to supporting new construction, major renovation projects at the school, and paying off bonds that are dedicated for school improvement. The tax would have lasted until 2046.

Those who were in favor of the one-percent sales tax increase argued that most of the sales tax would have been paid for by travelers from outside of New Kent due to the location and increased additional infrastructure. At the same time, those opposing the increase cited the addition of several businesses who have elected to house facilities in New Kent. Opponents of the increase believe that the businesses will bring additional tax revenue to offset the costs of the school construction.

In an uncontested race, Jessica Stewart was formally elected as the District 1 representative New Kent’s School Board. Stewart had been serving on an interim basis after her appointment after Keith Pagano stepped down due to a relocation of residence.

In other New Kent voting results, Bert Mizusawa was favored over Mark Warner in the battle for the seat in the United States Senate, and Rob Wittman was the overwhelming favorite over Shannon Taylor for a spot of the United States House of Representative. A majority of New Kent citizens also voted no to all three constitutional amendments surrounding the freedom of reproduction, right to marriage, and the right to restore voting to felons upon their release.

Approximately 14,125 ballots were cast in New Kent out of a possible 21,961 registered voters, which is the equivalent of a 64 percent voter turnout.

*Click on the pictures below to review voting results from New Kent County.