Granville County voters will consider a proposed one‑quarter percent (0.25%) local sales tax (often called an Article 46 sales tax) in a referendum on March 3, 2026. The information below is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to encourage anyone to vote for or against the measure.
What the Tax Is
Article 46 is an optional local sales tax authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly that can only take effect if approved by county voters in a referendum.
If approved, Granville County’s total sales tax rate would increase from 6.75% to 7.00% by adding an additional 0.25% to purchases already subject to sales tax.
How It Would Be Used
By law, Article 46 revenue is “unrestricted,” meaning it may be used by the county for any public purpose the county is already authorized to fund.
The Granville County Board of Commissioners has stated an intent to direct roughly half of the proceeds to public education (including charter schools on a per‑pupil basis) and the other half to emergency services such as EMS, fire services, and the sheriff’s office.
Education and Charter School Impact
County materials project that, at the funding levels discussed for the 2024 budget request, Granville County Public Schools would receive about $576,000 in additional annual operating funds if the tax is enacted.
Charter schools serving Granville County students would also receive additional operating funds on a proportional per‑pupil basis, with a current projection of approximately $201,000 collectively.
What the Tax Applies To
The additional 0.25% would apply primarily to everyday retail purchases that are already subject to sales tax.
The tax would not apply to certain items that are already exempt from general state and local sales tax, including automobiles, gasoline, groceries, medical supplies, and prescription drugs.
Voter Information
The referendum will appear on the March 3, 2026, ballot for Granville County voters.
Families and staff are encouraged to learn more by reviewing the Granville County Frequently Asked Questions on the Sales Tax Referendum and to participate in the voting process according to their own views. Please see the Granville County Sales Tax flyer for more information.
