LARGO, Fla. — The Pinellas County school board unanimously passed a referendum that could appear on the November ballot and lead to an increase in property taxes.

The referendum would increase property taxes throughout the county, from 50 cents per $1,000 in assessed property value up to $1 per every $1,000.

The district says this rate would put Pinellas in line with surrounding counties.

Now that it's been approved by the school board, the referendum goes to the Supervisor of Elections office to be put on the November ballot.

Then it is up to the voters to approve.

Several residents spoke during public comment both for and against the referendum.

Meanwhile, school board members largely spoke in favor, saying it's necessary to invest in teachers and staff.