School bond and education facilities funding
A $320.5 million school bond is on the November 2026 ballot with bipartisan support to build new schools, renovate New Hanover High, and fund safety and HVAC upgrades addressing overcrowding and aging buildings (average age ~47 years). Broader facility needs exceed $550 million; county operational funding for schools remains a budget flashpoint alongside calls for more state capital support.
Should voters approve the $320.5 million school bond for new and renovated facilities in New Hanover County?
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Sources
WilmingtonBiz — https://www.wilmingtonbiz.com/education/2026/09/30/education/27886
$320.5 million school bond is on the November 2026 ballot
New Hanover County — https://www.nhcgov.com/2465/Legislative-Priorities
Broader needs exceed $550 million; the Board seeks more state capital support
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Strongly support the full bond plus higher ongoing county funding for schools and Pre-K
- Approve the bond to address overcrowding and aging buildings with limited tax impact
- Support the bond only if paired with clear cost controls and state matching funds
- Oppose the bond in favor of targeted repairs and private or state alternatives
- Reject the bond and reduce education spending to keep taxes and debt low