Written by Sumter County voters on Nov. 3 approved reviving a 2% tourism development tax and keeping the county’s 8-cent local fuel tax, according to unofficial results with all 33 precincts reporting. Turnout was strong: about 95,678 ballots cast among 130,072 registered voters (73.56%).
The tourism tax (County Referendum 2) was favored by about 60% of voters (51,408 for / 34,887 against). It applies to short-term lodging such as hotels, campgrounds, and bed-and-breakfasts. County officials have projected roughly $1.4 million a year for fairgrounds upgrades, tourist attraction capital work, and tourism marketing. Commissioners had suspended the tax in 2020.
Voters also kept the Constitutional 5th and 6th Cent fuel tax option at 8 cents per gallon on motor and diesel fuel (Referendum 1: about 64% yes / 36% no). That money continues to support Sumter road and transportation projects.
Local races (unofficial)
- Bushnell Mayor — Seat 1: Dale Barnes 700 (61.67%), Erica Miller 435 (38.33%)
- Center Hill City Council — Seat 3: Don M. Buckner Sr. 178 (64.49%), Daniel Shimasaki 98 (35.51%)
Some vote-by-mail ballots were still being counted on election night, and totals remain unofficial until certified by election officials.
Sources checked Nov. 5, 2026: Villages-News tourism tax report, Lake & Sumter Style election roundup, ClickOrlando Sumter races, and the Sumter County fuel tax page.